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Spicy Cajun Chicken & Creamy Parmesan Linguine

A weeknight dinner dream! This dish is packed with flavor, surprisingly easy to whip up, and features spicy Cajun chicken served over rich, creamy Parmesan linguine.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Cajun, Italian-Inspired
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cajun Chicken
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts chicken breasts cut into strips
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1.5 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper
For the Creamy Parmesan Linguine
  • 12 oz linguine pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil if needed
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • Fresh parsley chopped parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Large Pot
  • Small bowl
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Step 1: In a small bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken strips evenly with the spice blend.
  2. Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken strips and cook for 6-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Step 3: Cook linguine in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving some pasta water.
  4. Step 4: In the same skillet (add more olive oil if needed), sauté minced garlic over medium heat for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Step 5: Pour in chicken broth and scrape up browned bits. Add heavy cream and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. If too thick, add reserved pasta water.
  6. Step 6: Add the drained linguine to the sauce and toss to coat. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and gooey.
  7. Step 7: Divide the creamy linguine among plates. Top with Cajun chicken strips and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve immediately.

Notes

Feel free to add sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach with the garlic. Shrimp or scallops can be used instead of chicken. Use fettuccine, spaghetti, or rotini if linguine is unavailable.