How to Make Spicy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
When you crave something spicy, creamy, and satisfying, Spicy Cajun Chicken Linguine in Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce hits every note. This recipe combines blackened Cajun-seasoned chicken with a silky garlic parmesan cream sauce and tender linguine noodles to create a restaurant-quality meal in under 40 minutes.
It’s bold, rich, and full of flavor — perfect for weeknight comfort food, entertaining guests, or meal prepping with flair.
Ingredients
Serves 4
For the Cajun Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally (4 thin cutlets)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For the Pasta
- 10 ounces linguine pasta
- Salt for boiling water
For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning (or more to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Extra grated Parmesan
- A dash of hot sauce
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add linguine and cook until al dente. Drain, reserve ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cajun Chicken
- Rub chicken cutlets with Cajun seasoning on both sides.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and golden.
- Remove from skillet, let rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with additional Cajun seasoning, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Toss cooked linguine into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
- Add sliced Cajun chicken on top and gently toss to combine.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with garlic bread or a warm baguette to soak up the sauce.
- Add steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus for a complete meal.
- Serve with a glass of chilled Chardonnay or iced tea to balance the spice.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 of 4) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 635 |
| Protein | 39 grams |
| Total Fat | 35 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 18 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 42 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sugars | 3 grams |
| Sodium | 690 milligrams |
Key Benefits:
- Chicken breast provides lean, high-quality protein.
- Garlic and Cajun spices offer flavor depth without added sugar.
- Parmesan cheese contributes calcium and umami richness.
- Heavy cream and olive oil create a satisfying, creamy texture ideal for low-carb adaptations.
Tips for Best Results
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smooth, non-gritty sauce.
- Don’t overcook the chicken — it should be juicy and tender inside.
- Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition and color.
- For extra heat, increase Cajun seasoning or add a dash of cayenne.
Variations to Try
- Substitute shrimp for chicken to create a Cajun seafood version.
- Use penne or fettuccine instead of linguine.
- Make it lighter by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Add mushrooms or bell peppers for added texture and color.
Spicy Cajun Chicken Linguine in Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a flavorful fusion of heat and richness — a perfect way to elevate pasta night. With its velvety sauce, boldly seasoned chicken, and satisfying noodles, it’s sure to become a repeat favorite for anyone who enjoys a little spice with their comfort food.
