Savory Cajun Chicken and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Linguine

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Looking for a dinner that delivers bold flavor and rich comfort all in one bite? This Savory Cajun Chicken and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Linguine is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. With golden, spiced chicken chunks paired with silky pasta coated in a luscious garlic-parmesan cream sauce, every forkful is downright irresistible. It’s a dish that tastes like hours in the kitchen but comes together effortlessly for a weeknight win or dinner party centerpiece.

The cajun spice gives a smoky kick to the juicy chicken, while the pasta balances it out with creamy, garlicky goodness and fresh parsley to finish. This recipe strikes the perfect chord between indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it with crusty bread or fresh greens, expect zero leftovers and lots of praise.

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What Kind of Cajun Seasoning Should I Use?

You can use your favorite store-bought Cajun seasoning blend, or make your own at home with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, black pepper, oregano, and thyme. Choose a version with low sodium if you’re watching salt levels, and always adjust the heat based on your taste preference. For a milder dish, go easy on the cayenne or swap with smoked paprika for more depth.

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Ingredients for the Savory Cajun Chicken and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Linguine

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts serve as the protein base, absorbing the Cajun seasoning beautifully.

Cajun Seasoning: The key to the dish’s smoky, spicy kick. It infuses the chicken with irresistible Southern flavor.

Olive Oil: Used for searing the chicken, it adds flavor and helps develop that golden crust.

Butter: Essential for building a rich sauce base and giving the pasta a velvety mouthfeel.

Garlic: Adds a sharp, aromatic punch that makes the cream sauce sing.

Heavy Cream: The creamy foundation for the sauce. Don’t substitute this if you want that luscious texture.

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for a melt-in-your-mouth finish and nutty undertone.

Linguine Pasta: The ideal noodle to soak up the sauce while offering a satisfying bite.

Parsley: Brightens the dish with freshness and a pop of color.

Salt & Pepper: Basic but essential to enhance and balance all other flavors.

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How To Make the Savory Cajun Chicken and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Linguine

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by slicing the chicken breasts into chunks. Toss them in Cajun seasoning until coated evenly. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken pieces for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken cooks, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package directions until al dente. Drain, but reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant—about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and stir, letting it simmer gently for 3–4 minutes. Then add in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce thickens.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Toss the cooked linguine into the sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen it up. Fold in the seared Cajun chicken and cook for another 2 minutes to let the flavors marry. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if you like. Serve hot and dig in!

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How to Serve and Store This Recipe

This dish is best enjoyed fresh off the stove when the sauce is silky and the chicken is perfectly juicy. Serve it family-style straight from the pan or plated with an elegant sprinkle of parsley and Parmesan.

To store leftovers, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of cream or milk to bring the sauce back to life. Freezing is not ideal as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.

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What to Serve With Savory Cajun Chicken and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Linguine?

Garlic Bread

Crunchy and golden, perfect for swiping up extra sauce.

Roasted Broccoli

Adds a nice crunch and green balance to the richness of the dish.

Caesar Salad

The cool, crisp lettuce with creamy dressing contrasts beautifully with the warm, spicy pasta.

Corn on the Cob

Sweet corn complements the heat of the Cajun spices deliciously.

Sautéed Green Beans

Keep it simple and fresh with lightly sautéed green beans with lemon.

Caprese Salad

Tomato, mozzarella, and basil lighten the meal and add bright acidity.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

A double comfort combo, for those who love indulgent sides.

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Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this creamy and spicy Cajun chicken linguine, don’t miss these other delicious creations from the SavorQueen kitchen:

• Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken: A slow-cooked sensation that’s perfect for easy nights.
• Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni: Perfect for meat lovers craving indulgent comfort.
• Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight: The sweet-savory combo you didn’t know you needed.
• Cheesy Ranch Chicken Garlic Butter Fettuccine: A creamy pasta dream with a ranch twist.
• Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Skillet: A smoky and spicy skillet wonder.

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe added shrimp or a splash of white wine? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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