Spicy, creamy, and richly satisfying, this one-pan Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine recipe marries Southern heat with weeknight comfort. With tender linguine, juicy spiced chicken, and a velvety garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, it’s a meal that satisfies on every level.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a bold twist on classic creamy pasta. The Cajun-seasoned chicken provides a punch of flavor, while the garlic cream sauce adds indulgent depth. It’s quick, simple, and all made in one pan—perfect for busy evenings when you want something both easy and flavorful.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta

12 oz linguine
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)

directions

Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Season the Chicken:
In a bowl, toss the sliced chicken with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Sauté the Garlic:
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Build the Sauce:
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.
Add the Cheese:
Stir in Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Combine Everything:
Return the cooked linguine and chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce.
Serve:
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add Veggies: Toss in sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and color.
Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken with shrimp, sausage, or tofu for different textures and flavors.
Extra Heat: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to intensify the spice.
Cheese Blend: Use a mix of Parmesan and mozzarella for an even creamier finish.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.

storage/reheating

Store: Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce’s texture.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it in advance and store in the refrigerator. Reheat gently to serve.

Is this dish very spicy?

It has moderate heat. Adjust the Cajun seasoning and pepper to suit your spice preference.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, add it after the sauce is made to warm through. Avoid overcooking.

What type of Parmesan should I use?

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting and flavor.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner. For richness, consider adding a bit of butter.

Is it necessary to use smoked paprika?

Smoked paprika adds depth, but you can use regular paprika as a substitute.

What type of pasta can I use?

Fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti work well as alternatives to linguine.

How do I make it more creamy?

Add more heavy cream or a small amount of cream cheese to thicken the sauce.

Can I freeze leftovers?

It’s best fresh, but you can freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.

Does this recipe work with low-fat cream?

Yes, but the sauce won’t be as rich. Adjust seasoning as needed for flavor.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines bold spices with a silky cream sauce. Whether you’re feeding the family or cooking for guests, it’s a quick and satisfying option that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.