Description
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delicious, comforting dinner made with tender chicken, linguine, and a rich garlic Parmesan sauce with a Cajun kick. Ready in just 30 minutes, this easy one-pan-style meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1½–2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ⅔ cup diced tomatoes
- 1½ cups heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon salt for the pasta water
- ½ cup reserved pasta water, as needed
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add 1 tablespoon of salt, and cook the linguine according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and keep it warm.
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness and season both sides with 1½ tablespoons of Cajun seasoning.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and sear on both sides. Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Transfer the chicken to a cutting board, slice it into thin strips, and cover to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and add the remaining Cajun seasoning to taste.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Add the cooked linguine and sliced chicken to the skillet. Toss until everything is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
- Add a little reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.
Notes
- Serving suggestions: Serve with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, roasted broccoli, or steamed green beans.
- Garnish: Add freshly grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, or a pinch of Cajun seasoning for extra flavor.
- Adjust the heat: Use less Cajun seasoning for a milder sauce or add red pepper flakes for extra spice.
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk, cream, or broth to loosen the sauce.
- Freezing: Freezing is possible, but the cream sauce and pasta may change texture after thawing. For best quality, enjoy the dish fresh or refrigerated.
- Make-ahead tip: Season and slice the chicken in advance, mince the garlic, and measure the other ingredients to make dinner preparation quicker.
- Avoid overcooking: Cook the pasta until al dente and remove the sauce from the heat once everything is warmed through to help preserve the creamy texture.