Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta (Linguine with Peppers & Mushrooms)
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta features tender chicken strips coated in spicy Cajun seasoning, sautéed with colorful bell peppers and mushrooms, all enveloped in a rich cream sauce served over linguine.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 oz linguine pasta
- 12 oz boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 3/4 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
- 2 Tbsp minced green onion
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp dried basil
- 1/8 tsp garlic powder
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 2 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Optional Ingredients
- Low-fat milk (replace half the cream for a lighter version)
- Extra Parmesan for serving
- Parsley or fresh basil for garnish
- Lemon wedge (brightens the finish)
- Red pepper flakes (if you like extra heat)
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook linguine according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside. (Reserve a splash of pasta water if you want to loosen the sauce later.)
Mixing / Seasoning
- Place chicken strips in a bowl.
- Sprinkle with Cajun seasoning and toss until evenly coated.
Cooking / Building the Sauce
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken and cook 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink and juices run clear.
- Add green bell pepper, red bell pepper, mushrooms, and green onion. Cook 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add salt, black pepper, dried basil, and garlic powder. Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cook about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Finishing
- Add cooked linguine to the skillet and toss until coated and heated through.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan and toss again.
- Serve immediately with extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Best creamy sauce tip: Keep the simmer gentle—boiling hard can reduce too quickly and make the sauce heavier than intended. Flavor enhancement: Taste your Cajun seasoning first; some blends are saltier/spicier than others. Adjust added salt accordingly. Common mistake to avoid: Overcooking chicken strips can make them dry. Slice evenly and cook just until done.