Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Cajun Chicken

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 6 oz each)
02 - 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
03 - 1 tbsp olive oil
04 - 1 tbsp butter
05 - 1/2 cup chicken broth
06 - 1/4 cup heavy cream
07 - 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

→ Creamy Parmesan Linguine Pasta

08 - 1 lb linguine pasta
09 - 4 tbsp butter
10 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
11 - 1 cup heavy cream
12 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
13 - 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
14 - 1/4 tsp salt
15 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
16 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

# Instructions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add linguine and cook until al dente following package directions. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining. Drain and set pasta aside.
02 - While pasta cooks, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub both sides generously with Cajun seasoning, pressing lightly to help it stick.
03 - In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter with olive oil. Sear chicken breasts for 5–7 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from skillet and tent with foil to keep warm.
04 - Lower heat to medium. Pour in chicken broth and 1/4 cup heavy cream. Scrape up browned bits from the skillet. Simmer for 3–4 minutes to reduce and slightly thicken. Remove from heat.
05 - In a separate skillet or pot, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in 1 cup heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Lower the heat and add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
06 - Add drained linguine to the Parmesan sauce, tossing to coat well. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
07 - Slice or serve whole Cajun chicken breasts over the creamy linguine. Drizzle with pan sauce from step 4. Garnish with fresh parsley and basil, and sprinkle extra Parmesan on top if desired.

# Notes:

01 - Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure food safety.
02 - Reserve pasta water before draining to help adjust the consistency of the sauce.

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