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Cajun Chicken Linguine

Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine: A Quick Weeknight Delight

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine is a comforting, one-pot dinner that's perfect for busy weeknights, ready in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American, Cajun
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts can substitute with chicken thighs for a richer flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning adjust based on your heat preference
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil vegetable oil works as a great substitute
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Butter use margarine for a dairy-free option
  • 3 cloves Minced Garlic garlic powder is a convenient substitute
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth opt for low-sodium if desired
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream half-and-half or coconut milk lightens it up
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese swap with nutritional yeast for a vegan version
For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Linguine feel free to use penne or gluten-free pasta as alternatives
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley omit if fresh herbs aren’t on hand

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by patting the boneless skinless chicken breasts dry with paper towels, ensuring a nice sear. Season generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper for a burst of flavor. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, and drizzle in some olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until it's golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
  2. Lower the heat to medium and add butter into the same skillet, allowing it to melt. Once it’s bubbling, add minced garlic, sautéing for 30-60 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Pour in chicken broth to the skillet, using a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits from the bottom, enhancing the sauce’s flavor. Bring the broth to a gentle simmer before stirring in the heavy cream.
  4. Once simmering, add the grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce, stirring until it melts and you achieve an irresistibly smooth consistency. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional Cajun seasoning or salt as needed.
  5. If your linguine needs to be broken to fit in the pot, do so now. Submerge the strands into the bubbling sauce mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the skillet and let it cook on medium-low for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender.
  6. Once the linguine is cooked to perfection, slice the rested chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the pot. Stir gently to combine, allowing the chicken to absorb the creamy sauce for about 1-2 minutes.
  7. Scoop the creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine into bowls or plates, and add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately while it’s warm and inviting.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftover Cajun Chicken Linguine in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.

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