Rich, spicy, and full of bold Cajun flavor
This creamy Cajun chicken pasta is a restaurant-quality dish that brings together tender chicken strips, perfectly cooked linguine, and a smooth, smoky cream sauce. It’s hearty, comforting, and ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package directions, then drain and set aside. - Cook the chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken strips and season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside. - Make the sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
Let the mixture simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly thickened. - Add Parmesan
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue cooking until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. - Combine everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
Add the drained linguine and toss until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy Cajun sauce. - Serve
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm.
Tips for Best Results
- Add crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Replace some of the heavy cream with cream cheese for a thicker, richer sauce.
- Use fettuccine or penne if you prefer a different pasta shape.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
- Pair with roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli for a complete meal.
- This dish reheats well and is great for meal prep.
Storage
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.