Description
Experience the bold and creamy flavors of Spicy Cajun Chicken Linguine, featuring tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich Cajun-infused sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or to impress your guests!
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 garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 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 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (about 1 tablespoon of salt).
- Add the linguine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (8-10 minutes), stirring occasionally.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C). Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add diced onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Add cooked chicken back into the skillet, stirring to coat in the sauce.
- Gently fold in cooked linguine, ensuring its well coated. Add more reserved pasta water if the dish seems dry.
- Cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes on low heat.
- Remove from heat and serve in bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.
- Optionally, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Notes
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to your spice preference.
- Pair with a glass of white wine or iced tea for a delightful meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes