Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Prep the Chicken (10 minutes)
- Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides generously with Cajun seasoning.Mince garlic, grate Parmesan, and bring heavy cream to room temperature.
Cook the Chicken (8 minutes)
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.Add chicken and cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes per side until blackened and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.Remove chicken and let rest under foil.
Make the Sauce (10 minutes)
- In the same skillet, lower heat to medium. Add butter, then garlic, and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.Gradually whisk in Parmesan until melted and smooth.Season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste.
Cook the Pasta (while sauce simmers)
- Boil pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Combine Everything (5 minutes)
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet with sauce. Toss with a wooden spoon until well coated.Slice chicken into strips and return to skillet. Add a splash of pasta water as needed for a silky consistency.
Finish & Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and cracked black pepper.Serve hot — optionally with a glass of orange juice for a bright, refreshing pairing.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Substitute shrimp or sausage for chicken to change things up.
- Sauce too thick? Add a splash of milk or chicken broth.
- Sauce too thin? Add more Parmesan and simmer briefly.
- Leftovers keep for 2–4 days refrigerated in an airtight container.
