Garlic Parmesan Chicken Linguine in Cajun Alfredo
Creamy, garlicky, and boldly seasoned, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Linguine in Cajun Alfredo is the ultimate comfort pasta. Juicy Cajun-spiced chicken breasts are pan-seared to perfection, then tossed with linguine in a rich Alfredo sauce made with garlic, parmesan, and a hint of Cajun heat. A restaurant-quality pasta dinner that’s easy enough for busy weeknights and impressive enough for entertaining.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun-Italian Fusion
Ingredients
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 2 large chicken breasts, pounded thin
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (divided)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil linguine in salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
- Season the chicken: Rub chicken breasts with 1 ½ tbsp Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove, rest 5 minutes, then slice.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté 1 minute. Stir in heavy cream, remaining Cajun seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add Parmesan: Whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss pasta: Add cooked linguine to the sauce, tossing to coat. If needed, add reserved pasta water for desired consistency.
- Finish & serve: Top with sliced chicken and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot.
Notes
- For extra flavor, blacken the chicken in a cast-iron skillet.
- Add sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for a veggie boost.
- Substitute fettuccine or penne if linguine isn’t available.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice level.
