Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Spicy Garlic Cheese Sauce

Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Spicy Garlic Cheese Sauce

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If you’re craving bold flavors with a creamy twist, this Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Spicy Garlic Cheese Sauce is about to become your new obsession. This dish is the perfect harmony of smoky heat, rich garlic-infused cheese sauce, and tender seared chicken breast. It’s comfort food with a Cajun kick—satisfying, full of personality, and perfect for any dinner night when you want to impress without too much fuss.

Imagine a bed of al dente linguine coated in a silky, spicy cheese sauce packed with garlic, paprika, and chili flakes. Toss in juicy bites of seasoned Cajun chicken, and you have a dish that hits every note—creamy, spicy, savory, and downright delicious. The vibrant garnish of fresh herbs brings a pop of color and freshness that lifts the entire meal.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Spicy Garlic Cheese Sauce

  • Rich Flavor: The Cajun seasoning combined with garlic and cheese gives this dish a deep, savory profile that lingers beautifully on the palate.
  • Perfect Texture: Creamy sauce clings to every strand of linguine, and the chicken pieces are perfectly seared and juicy.
  • Weeknight-Friendly: Despite its restaurant-quality taste, this dish comes together in about 30 minutes.
  • Customizable Heat: Dial the spice up or down depending on your preference.
  • Great for Guests: It looks impressive on the plate and satisfies a crowd.

Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Spicy Garlic Cheese Sauce

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and creamy satisfaction. Here’s what you’ll need and why it’s important:

  • Linguine Pasta – The wide strands hold onto the creamy sauce better than thinner pastas.
  • Boneless Chicken Breast – Lean, high in protein, and perfect for absorbing the Cajun spices.
  • Cajun Seasoning – Adds smoky, spicy depth to the chicken and sauce.
  • Olive Oil – Helps sear the chicken while adding a touch of richness.
  • Butter – Adds creaminess and depth to the garlic cheese sauce.
  • Garlic (Minced) – Essential for that aromatic, savory kick.
  • Heavy Cream – The base of the sauce; gives it that luxurious, silky texture.
  • Cream Cheese – Enhances the sauce with tang and thickens it beautifully.
  • Parmesan Cheese – Adds sharp, salty complexity to the sauce.
  • Red Pepper Flakes – Provides that spicy heat kick that balances the creaminess.
  • Fresh Parsley – For garnish and a pop of freshness.
  • Salt & Black Pepper – Basic seasoning to balance and bring out all the flavors.
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How To Make the Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Spicy Garlic Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Season chicken breast generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, and sear the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Linguine

While the chicken cooks, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Spicy Garlic Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and cream cheese, allowing it to melt and blend smoothly. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce is creamy and thick.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained linguine to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat every strand. Slice the cooked Cajun chicken into bite-sized pieces and add to the pasta. Mix gently or serve chicken arranged on top.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for color and brightness. Serve hot and enjoy!


Serving and Storing Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Spicy Garlic Cheese Sauce

This hearty pasta dish is perfect for feeding a group of 4 to 6 hungry people. Serve it family-style in a large skillet or platter, or portion it out into bowls with a few extra flakes of chili and a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra flair.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Freezing isn’t recommended, as the sauce may separate.

What to Serve With Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine?

Garlic Bread

Toasted garlic bread or cheesy garlic knots are perfect for soaking up that spicy, creamy sauce.

Green Salad

A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Vegetables

Think roasted broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers—they bring balance and a healthy crunch.

Grilled Asparagus

Adds a smoky, earthy bite that complements the Cajun spices.

Sauteed Mushrooms

Deep, umami-rich mushrooms match beautifully with creamy sauces.

Corn on the Cob

Grilled or oven-roasted corn adds a touch of sweetness that pairs nicely with the heat.

Sparkling Water or Lemonade

For a refreshing drink that contrasts the warmth of the dish.


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While linguine works great for holding the sauce, fettuccine, penne, or even spaghetti will do the job. Choose what you have on hand.

Is this dish very spicy?

It has a moderate kick, thanks to Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes. You can reduce or omit the flakes for a milder version.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance. Store separately in the fridge for up to 2 days, and combine with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

You can substitute with a bit more heavy cream and a handful of shredded mozzarella or another soft cheese. It won’t be as tangy but still creamy.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Warm on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in intervals, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you turn up the spice or keep it mellow? Try it with shrimp instead of chicken?
I love hearing how others put their twist on this dish. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Spicy Garlic Cheese Sauce is the kind of recipe that brings bold flavor and comfort to your dinner table. With the perfect balance of creaminess and spice, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress your family or guests. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight or a festive dinner, this recipe delivers big flavor with simple ingredients.

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Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Spicy Garlic Cheese Sauce

Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Spicy Garlic Cheese Sauce


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  • Author: Maya Rivers
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4–6

Description

Looking for a bold and creamy pasta dish that’s packed with flavor? This Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Spicy Garlic Cheese Sauce is the perfect dinner idea! Featuring smoky Cajun-seasoned chicken, tender linguine noodles, and a velvety garlic cheese sauce, this quick and easy recipe is a go-to for comfort food cravings. Great for weeknight dinners, dinner parties, or when you just need a satisfying meal that hits all the right notes. If you love easy recipes, healthy-ish comfort food ideas, and bold flavor combos, this one’s for you.


Ingredients

340g linguine pasta

500g boneless chicken breast

2 tbsp Cajun seasoning

1 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

85g cream cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper


Instructions

1. Season chicken breast with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear chicken until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove and set aside.

3. Boil linguine in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic and red pepper flakes until fragrant.

5. Add heavy cream and cream cheese. Stir until smooth.

6. Mix in Parmesan cheese and cook until sauce thickens.

7. Toss cooked linguine into the sauce until well coated.

8. Slice chicken into bite-sized pieces and add to the skillet.

9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Adjust Cajun seasoning to control the spice level to your liking.

Add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to revive the sauce.

This dish is also delicious with shrimp or smoked sausage as a variation.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American, Cajun

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 620
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 38g
  • Saturated Fat: 20g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 135mg

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