Print

Spicy Cajun Chicken Linguine: A Flavorful Recipe to Ignite Your Taste Buds

Enjoy a flavorful Spicy Cajun Chicken Linguine featuring tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a creamy sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal, delivering bold flavors and satisfying textures that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz linguine pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add about a tablespoon of salt.
  2. Add the linguine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (8-10 minutes). Stir occasionally.
  3. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
  4. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
  5. Season the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
  6. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
  7. Remove the chicken from the skillet and cover with foil to keep warm.
  8. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
  9. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
  10. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and simmer for 5 minutes.
  11. Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream.
  12. Add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
  13. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat in the sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  14. Add the drained linguine, tossing to coat the pasta in the sauce. Add more reserved pasta water if needed.
  15. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning.
  16. Remove from heat and serve in bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.
  17. For extra kick, sprinkle additional Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes before serving.

Notes

  • For added nutrition, consider incorporating spinach or zucchini during the sautéing phase.
  • Substitute chicken with shrimp for a seafood variation, adjusting cooking time as shrimp cooks faster.