Creamy One-Pot Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Short Description

Creamy One-Pot Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a flavorful and satisfying pasta dish that comes together easily in a single pot. It features tender chicken strips coated in Cajun spices, simmered with linguine in a rich garlic-infused cream sauce, and finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Ideal for a quick, hearty weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor in just one cooking vessel.

• Bold Cajun Flavor: Spicy seasoning paired with creamy sauce makes every bite exciting.

• Hearty and Filling: Includes protein, carbs, and fat for a complete and comforting dish.

• Quick and Simple: On the table in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy evenings.

• Family Friendly: Customizable spice level makes it appealing to all ages.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips

• 12 oz linguine pasta

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Season and Cook the Chicken
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sear the chicken for 5–7 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Remove from the pot and set aside.

2. Sauté Garlic and Start Sauce
   In the same pot, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.

3. Cook the Pasta
   Add the dry linguine straight into the pot. Ensure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking.

4. Finish with Cheese and Chicken
   Once the pasta is tender, stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Return the cooked chicken to the pot and mix everything together. Simmer for 2 more minutes to blend the flavors.

5. Serve
   Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Extra Veggies: Add spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms when sautéing the garlic.

• Spice It Up: Include red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for more heat.

• Cheese Swap: Use shredded mozzarella or Asiago instead of Parmesan for a different flavor.

• Low-Carb Option: Substitute linguine with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Warm gently in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of cream or broth. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne all work well. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a moderate kick from the Cajun seasoning. Reduce the quantity for a milder flavor.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. Whole milk is the best substitute.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If making ahead, reheat gently to prevent the sauce from separating.

What kind of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless breasts or thighs both work well. Thighs offer more flavor and stay juicier.

Can I add shrimp?

Absolutely. Shrimp can be cooked in the same pot after the chicken or added at the end and warmed through.

Is it necessary to cover the pot while the pasta cooks?

Yes, covering helps the pasta cook evenly and absorb the sauce without drying out.

Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?

Yes, or you can make your own with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Stir frequently during the first few minutes of cooking and ensure it’s fully submerged in the liquid.

What’s the best way to serve this?

Serve it with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

Creamy One-Pot Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a flavorful, comforting dish that comes together quickly and easily. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining, it delivers rich, spicy, and creamy satisfaction in every bite. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.

[tasty-recipe id=”18590″]