Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
- Season the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Melt butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens slightly. If too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Add cooked linguine and chicken to the sauce. Toss well to coat evenly. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sauté additional vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a richer, more flavorful sauce.
- Adjust Cajun spices to control heat level based on your preference.
- Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for more spice.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Diabetic Friendly
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 620 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 40 g
- Saturated Fat: 20 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 130 mg