Description
This Cajun Chicken over Creamy Parmesan Linguine is a flavorful and easy-to-make weeknight dinner featuring tender, spicy chicken cutlets served atop rich and creamy Parmesan-coated linguine. The dish combines bold Cajun seasoning with a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, making it a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cajun Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved horizontally to make cutlets)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Creamy Parmesan Linguine:
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the linguine: Cook the linguine pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside to keep warm.
- Season and cook the chicken: Season both sides of the chicken cutlets evenly with Cajun seasoning. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cutlets and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest while you prepare the sauce.
- Prepare the creamy Parmesan sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Toss the linguine in sauce: Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat the pasta in the creamy Parmesan sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency.
- Serve the dish: Slice the rested Cajun chicken cutlets and arrange them on top of the creamy Parmesan linguine. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute shrimp or salmon in place of chicken for variety.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your preferred spice level.
- Using fresh Parmesan cheese will enhance the flavor of the sauce.
- Reserve some pasta water to help adjust sauce consistency as needed.
- Letting the chicken rest before slicing ensures juicier meat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun-Inspired, American
