Craving something creamy, bold, and quick that still feels like home? This Cajun Chicken over Creamy Parmesan Linguine is one of those high-protein dinners for busy families that checks every box. I didn’t grow up with fancy meals but my mom, a nurse, made every plate feel like care.
I learned from her that even quick and cheap meals can be full of heart. That’s why I cook. And that’s why this recipe lives on my weeknight list.
Golden Cajun Cream, Bite After Bite
- make my own version. For my family. For me.
- It’s spicy enough to feel grown, creamy enough to feel safe.
- And it’s earned a top spot on my easy weeknight list.
The Ingredients – Cajun Chicken Over Creamy Parmesan Linguine
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1½ teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
It’s pantry-staple meets power-flavor. And yes, the smoked paprika makes all the difference.
Instructions – Cajun Chicken Over Creamy Parmesan Linguine
Step 1: Season that chicken like it owes you something
Toss sliced chicken with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. It should look coated not shy.
Stuffani’s tip: I use a big bowl with a lid and shake it like a maraca. Gets the frustration out too.
Step 2: Sear it hot, seal it in
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Lay the chicken down and don’t touch it too soon. Let it get golden before flipping. 6–7 minutes total.
Kitchen truth: If it sticks, it’s not ready. Let it tell you when it’s time. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Boil the pasta with purpose
Linguine goes in a pot of salted boiling water. Cook until just al dente. Drain, but save a little pasta water magic on the side.
Stuffani’s whisper: That salty pasta water? It’s better than cream when the sauce needs help.
Step 4: Garlic + Cream = The Best Kind of Math
In the same skillet, sauté garlic in a bit more olive oil. Add broth, scrape the flavor off the bottom, then stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Stuffani’s advice: When it starts to bubble slow and thick, you’re on the right path.
Step 5: Swirl it all together
Add pasta to the skillet. Toss in the Parmesan and let it melt right in. Plate, then top with the seared chicken and a sprinkle of parsley.
Stuffani’s real-talk: This sauce knows how to cling. Like a cozy sweater on a cold day.
Want more skillet magic? Check out my Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine or cozy up with this Cajun Beef Linguine. Both are soul-soothing and weeknight-ready.
Ways to Make It Yours, One Buttery Bite at a Time
- Some nights I measure, stir, and follow each step like it’s a map home.
- Other nights? It’s garlic in one hand, a baby on my hip, and me whispering to the skillet, please just work.
Real swaps, from your fridge—not the store
Cajun Chicken over Creamy Parmesan Linguine:
- No chicken breasts? Chicken thighs are juicier. I use them when I want extra richness.
- No Parmesan? Try shredded Romano or even cream cheese for a thicker feel.
- Out of linguine? Fettuccine, spaghetti even penne. Use what you have.
- Want another creamy skillet win? Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken and Sausage Pasta is one to bookmark. It’s got heat, heart, and heavy cream. What else do you need?
Stuffani’s whisper: I’ve made this recipe with whatever I could dig out of the pantry and it still tasted like I had a plan. That’s the magic of a meal that loves you back.
Easy touches that make it feel like you
Cajun Chicken over Creamy Parmesan Linguine:
- Add sautéed mushrooms for that earthy depth.
- Stir in baby spinach right at the end it wilts perfectly.
- Craving crunch? Top with toasted breadcrumbs or crispy onions.
- Want more comfort in one pot? My One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is fast, filling, and full of flavor.Cajun Chicken Over Creamy Parmesan Linguine.
Stuffani’s advice: Don’t wait for a perfect day to make a good meal. Some of my best dinners were born out of chaos and a little courage. Your Tuesday deserves that kind of magic.
Serving and Storing Cajun Chicken over Creamy Parmesan Linguine
- This is the pasta you bring out when you’ve got zero plans just cravings.
- It saves you when the fridge feels empty and your energy’s on low.
How to serve Cajun Chicken over Creamy Parmesan Linguine
Cajun Chicken over Creamy Parmesan Linguine:
- Plate it hot, right out of the skillet.
- Swirl the pasta high, then lay the chicken gently across.
- Add a fresh parsley pinch and maybe a drizzle of olive oil for shine.
- Serving for comfort? Try it with Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Alfredo Pasta. Trust me.
Stuffani’s Note:
I’ve eaten this straight from the skillet, standing barefoot at the stove.
And I’ve served it plated, with napkins and candles, like I had it all together.
Both times? It was exactly what I needed.
How to store it the right way (and still love it later)
Cajun Chicken over Creamy Parmesan Linguine:
- Let it cool fully don’t trap steam or your pasta turns sad.
- Transfer to an airtight container (or wrap that skillet like it’s gold).
- Fridge life: 3 to 4 days.
- Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of broth or cream to bring it back to life.
- Want a freezer win too? My Creamy One-Pot Cajun Beef and Cheddar Pasta freezes like a dream.
Stuffani’s Whisper:
Sometimes I stash a portion just for me.
Behind the juice boxes.
Because even moms need leftovers that feel like love.
For more recipes follow me in pinterest and Facebook
FAQs Cajun Chicken Over Creamy Parmesan Linguine
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes. Use tofu or mushrooms. Great for high protein dinners without meat.
Is it spicy?
No. Just flavor-packed. A solid pick for easy weeknight chicken recipes even for kids.
Can I use other pasta types?
Yes. Penne, fettuccine, or rotini work. Perfect for 30 minute dinner ideas with pantry staples.
How do I reheat it?
Use low heat with cream or broth. Keeps the creamy pasta texture just right.
Conclusion Cajun Chicken Over Creamy Parmesan Linguine
- This Cajun Chicken over Creamy Parmesan Linguine isn’t just a skillet win it’s weeknight relief.
- It’s proof that easy weeknight chicken recipes can still feel rich and soulful.
- That bold spices, real cream, and heart are better than shortcuts.
- And that even on tired nights, one buttery bite can feel like care.Cajun Chicken Over Creamy Parmesan Linguine.
Cajun Chicken over Creamy Parmesan Linguine: Perfect Dinner
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun-American
Description
A bold, buttery Cajun chicken dish paired with rich creamy Parmesan linguine. This high-protein 30-minute dinner is perfect for busy weeknights and delivers family-approved flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
12 oz linguine pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. In a small bowl, mix Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken strips evenly.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 6–7 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Set aside.
3. Boil linguine in salted water until al dente. Drain and save a bit of pasta water.
4. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic in olive oil. Add broth, scrape bits, then pour in heavy cream. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
5. Add linguine to the skillet. Toss in Parmesan cheese and stir until creamy and coated.
6. Plate the pasta, top with seared chicken, and garnish with parsley. Serve hot.
Notes
Add a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce if you like heat.
Thighs can replace chicken breasts for juicier results.
Great served with crusty garlic bread or a green salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 790mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: Cajun chicken pasta, easy weeknight chicken recipes, high-protein dinners, creamy parmesan linguine, 30-minute meals
