Savory Cajun Chicken over Creamy Parmesan Linguine

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Difficulty: Medium | Servings: 4

Description

Indulge in this rich and flavorful dish featuring tender Cajun-spiced chicken served over a bed of creamy Parmesan linguine. The bold spices of the chicken perfectly complement the smooth, cheesy pasta for a restaurant-quality meal at home.

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Ingredients

For the Cajun Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
• Salt & black pepper to taste

For the Creamy Parmesan Linguine:

• 8 oz linguine pasta
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cajun Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts horizontally to create thinner cutlets. In a small bowl, mix Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning blend evenly over both sides of the chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from the skillet and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 2: Cook the Linguine

1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions (about 9-11 minutes) until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

1. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Simmer the Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and let cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Add Cheese & Seasonings: Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water 1 tbsp at a time.
4. Combine with Pasta: Add the drained linguine to the sauce, tossing until fully coated.

Step 4: Assemble & Serve

1. Plate the Dish: Divide the creamy linguine among plates and top with sliced Cajun chicken.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 680 | Protein: 38g | Carbohydrates: 45g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g
Fat: 40g (Saturated: 20g) | Cholesterol: 165mg | Sodium: 850mg

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Tips & Variations

• Spice Level: Adjust cayenne and red pepper flakes to taste.
• Pasta Swap: Use fettuccine or spaghetti if preferred.
• Extra Veggies: Add sautéed bell peppers or spinach for more nutrition.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

Enjoy this Savory Cajun Chicken over Creamy Parmesan Linguine—a perfect balance of heat and richness in every bite!