Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine
Spicy, Creamy, and Loaded with Bold Southern Heat—Weeknight Dinner Done Right in 30 Minutes!
Looking for a dinner that brings both comfort and a fiery kick? This Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine is the ultimate one-skillet meal. Juicy strips of Cajun-spiced chicken are seared to perfection, then tossed with linguine in a garlicky, Parmesan-loaded cream sauce that brings the heat and the soul. It’s a bold, flavor-packed dish that feels like a warm Southern hug—with a spicy twist
Ingredients:
For the Chicken & Seasoning:
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 & black pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Cajun Sauce & 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)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine:
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook linguine according to package directions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Season the Chicken:
Toss your chicken strips with:
✔ Cajun seasoning
✔ Smoked paprika
✔ Garlic powder
✔ Salt and black pepper
3️⃣ Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add seasoned chicken and cook 5–6 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove from skillet and set aside.
4️⃣ Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, just until fragrant.
5️⃣ Build the Sauce:
Pour in ½ cup chicken broth and 1 cup heavy cream.
Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
Let it reduce slightly for 3–4 minutes.
6️⃣ Add the Cheese:
Stir in ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
Mix until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
7️⃣ Combine and Serve:
Add the cooked linguine and chicken back into the skillet.
Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy Cajun sauce.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Quick Snapshot:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~600 kcal per serving
Pro Tips for Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta:
Boost the Spice: Use extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne for more heat.
Smooth Sauce: Let the cream simmer before adding the cheese—it melts better and thickens nicely.
Golden Chicken: Sear chicken in a hot skillet for max flavor and color.
Fresh Finish: A sprinkle of parsley brightens up the creamy richness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Spice Meets Creaminess: A fiery Cajun cream sauce that soothes and sizzles.
One-Skillet Simplicity: Quick cleanup, big payoff.
Southern Comfort: Garlic, cream, cheese, and seasoned chicken—what’s not to love?
Reliable Favorite: It’s got heat, heart, and a whole lotta flavor.
FAQ About Cajun Chicken Linguine:
Can I use a different pasta?
Absolutely—fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni work great too.
Not a fan of spice?
Cut the Cajun seasoning in half and add extra cream or cheese to mellow the heat.
Can I add veggies?
Yes! Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms are delicious additions.
Common Problems and Fixes:
Sauce too thin?
Let it simmer a bit longer or stir in a little extra Parmesan.
Chicken bland?
Double-check your seasoning and don’t skip the sear—it adds flavor.
Too spicy?
Stir in a bit more cream or a spoonful of cream cheese to balance it out.
Flavor Variations You Can Try:
Creamier Twist: Add a splash of cream cheese or extra Parmesan.
Add Veggies: Toss in sautéed spinach or bell peppers for texture and color.
Make It Smoky: Sub paprika with chipotle powder for a smoky Cajun vibe.
Protein Swap: Try shrimp, sausage, or both for a surf-and-turf Cajun combo.
Perfect for Any Occasion:
Whether you’re battling a long day or craving cozy, spicy comfort, this Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine hits every mark. Quick to make, rich in flavor, and guaranteed to satisfy.
Cajun Pasta Success:
Perfectly seasoned chicken, silky linguine, and a bold, creamy sauce with Southern soul. This recipe is a flavor bomb—and it’s sure to be a weeknight favorite on repeat.
Made it? Show it off!
Tag your spicy skillet sensation—we’re here for all that creamy Cajun pasta goodness!