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