Sally Winter
Bold, spicy, creamy, and downright comforting — this Savory Cajun Chicken and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Linguine is your next weeknight dinner winner. Juicy, pan-seared Cajun-seasoned chicken meets a velvety garlic-Parmesan sauce wrapped around tender linguine. Every bite delivers heat, richness, and a satisfying blend of southern spice and Italian flair.
This dish captures the best of both worlds: the warmth of Cajun cuisine and the decadence of creamy pasta. Whether you’re cooking for the family or looking to impress guests, this recipe brings the flavor and elegance you need without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Savory Cajun Chicken and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Linguine
From the aroma of sizzling Cajun spices to the silky garlic sauce coating each pasta strand, there’s something irresistible here for everyone. It balances spice and cream perfectly, making it ideal for those who crave comfort food with a little kick. Plus, it all comes together in under an hour!
What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work beautifully in this recipe as they cook evenly and absorb the Cajun seasoning well. You can also use chicken thighs for an even juicier, more flavorful result. Make sure the chicken is sliced into thin cutlets or tenderloins for quick searing and better spice coverage.
Ingredients for the Savory Cajun Chicken and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Linguine
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in building flavor and texture:
- Chicken breasts or thighs: The protein centerpiece, seasoned with bold Cajun spices.
- Cajun seasoning: Brings that signature heat and smoky flavor.
- Olive oil & butter: For searing the chicken and creating a rich base for the sauce.
- Fresh garlic: Infuses the cream sauce with bold, aromatic depth.
- Heavy cream: The luxurious, silky base for the sauce.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty, salty flavor and thickens the sauce.
- Linguine pasta: Perfectly coats in the creamy sauce and stands up to the robust chicken.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Extra heat for spice lovers.
- Fresh parsley: Adds color and freshness right before serving.
How To Make the Savory Cajun Chicken and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Linguine
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Generously coat your chicken with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Linguine
Bring salted water to a boil and cook linguine until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, add more butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Toss the cooked linguine into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess. Slice the seared chicken and place on top of the pasta. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
Serving and Storing Savory Cajun Chicken and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Linguine
This dish is best served immediately while hot, creamy, and fresh. It comfortably feeds 4 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering.
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.
What to Serve With Savory Cajun Chicken and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Linguine?
Garlic Bread
The crisp edges and buttery garlic flavor are a classic pairing with creamy pasta.
Caesar Salad
The tangy, crunchy freshness balances the richness of the pasta.
Steamed Broccoli
A healthy green side that adds a pop of color and nutrition.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Their slightly bitter edge and crispy texture are great with creamy dishes.
Grilled Asparagus
Light and fresh, asparagus adds elegance to your plate.
A Glass of Chardonnay
This white wine complements both the creamy sauce and the Cajun spice.
Baked Sweet Potatoes
The natural sweetness contrasts the spice and rounds out the meal.
Tomato Basil Soup
A warm bowl of this can serve as a comforting starter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, fettuccine or penne work well too. Just make sure it can hold the creamy sauce.
Is this dish very spicy?
It has a mild to moderate heat depending on your Cajun seasoning. Adjust red pepper flakes to taste.
Can I make it ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and sauce in advance, but for best texture, cook the pasta fresh.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half, but the sauce will be slightly lighter.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and check that your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.
Save This Pin For Later
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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use chicken breasts or thighs? Did you go heavy on the spice or keep it mild?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s help each other cook better every night.
Savory Cajun Chicken and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Linguine
Equipment
- Skillet
- Large pot
- Strainer
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Season chicken with Cajun seasoning on both sides.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 5–6 minutes per side until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- In a large pot, cook linguine in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 3–4 minutes. Stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Toss in linguine, adding pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
- Slice chicken and place on top of pasta. Garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes. Serve hot.