Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

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Bold, buttery, and bursting with spice, this Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine is the kind of comfort food that doesn’t hold back. Imagine juicy Cajun-seasoned chicken bites grilled to perfection and paired with silky linguine tangled in a garlicky, herb-flecked Parmesan cream sauce. It’s rich, a little fiery, and absolutely unforgettable.

Perfect for cozy weeknights or when you want to impress at the dinner table without a ton of effort, this dish combines the best of Southern soul and Italian comfort. It’s one of those recipes that quickly makes its way into your regular dinner rotation—and for good reason.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine

If you’re into bold flavors, this recipe was made for you. The Cajun spice rub creates a smoky heat on the chicken, which contrasts beautifully with the creamy, cheesy pasta. Garlic butter ties it all together with that irresistible aroma and depth that only comes from cooking low and slow. The textures and flavors are perfectly balanced—crispy-edged chicken and creamy noodles make each bite mouthwatering.

Even better? It comes together in under an hour and tastes like something from your favorite bistro. One skillet for the chicken, one pot for the pasta—easy cleanup, too.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use for This Recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work beautifully here. Chicken thighs offer a bit more flavor and tenderness, while chicken breasts keep it leaner and a little firmer in texture. Cut the chicken into cubes or chunks that will sear quickly in the skillet without overcooking. If you’re grilling them on skewers for a smoky twist, marinate ahead and go for even sizes for consistent grilling.

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Ingredients for the Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine

Every ingredient in this dish plays a key role in creating that dreamy combination of bold Cajun heat and creamy indulgence.

• Chicken breasts or thighs: These provide the protein and soak up all the Cajun flavor beautifully.
• Cajun seasoning: The star of the show—a blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and herbs for bold Southern heat.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic infuses the butter and cream with a rich aromatic base.
• Butter: Adds depth and silkiness to both the chicken and the sauce.
• Linguine pasta: Holds onto the creamy Parmesan sauce perfectly with its wide surface.
• Heavy cream: Makes the sauce rich, luscious, and ultra-satisfying.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty complexity that pairs perfectly with garlic and cream.
• Parsley (fresh or dried): Offers a hint of freshness and color to balance the richness.
• Olive oil: Helps sear the chicken to golden-brown perfection.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for balancing flavors throughout.

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How To Make the Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized chunks and toss with Cajun seasoning, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Sear or Grill the Chicken

In a hot skillet or grill pan, sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes depending on the size of the pieces. Set aside and keep warm.

Step 3: Cook the Linguine

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the linguine until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and stir, letting it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes. Add grated Parmesan and a splash of the reserved pasta water, stirring until the sauce is smooth and thickened.

Step 5: Combine and Toss

Toss the cooked linguine into the creamy sauce until well-coated. Fold in chopped parsley and nestle the chicken over the top or mix it in for full flavor. Add an extra sprinkle of Parmesan before serving.

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How to Serve and Store This Cajun Chicken Linguine

This rich and flavorful pasta dish serves 4 people generously. Serve it straight from the skillet with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and chopped parsley on top for a bit of flair.

To store leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce without drying it out.

Avoid freezing the pasta, as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed and reheated.

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What to Serve With Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine?

Round out your plate with a few simple sides that complement the creamy, spicy profile of this dish:

Garlic Bread

You can’t go wrong with golden, buttery garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce.

Caesar Salad

The crispness of romaine with creamy dressing and crunchy croutons provides a cool contrast.

Roasted Broccoli

Its slightly charred edges and nutty flavor pair beautifully with creamy pasta.

Grilled Asparagus

Light and earthy, grilled asparagus adds balance without overpowering.

Caprese Skewers

Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil offer a refreshing, bite-sized side.

Lemon Herb Green Beans

Bright and zesty green beans cut through the richness with ease.

Sparkling Water with Citrus

If you want to keep it light, pair with fizzy citrus-infused water for a refreshing sip.

A Glass of Chardonnay

Creamy pasta and white wine is a timeless pairing—this one’s no exception.

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Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If this Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine got your taste buds dancing, you’ll love these other creamy and comforting chicken pasta recipes:

• Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is dreamy, rich, and perfect for romantic nights in.
• Garlic Butter Meatballs with Velvety Parmesan Penne brings the same creamy sauce with a twist.
• Buffalo Chicken Lasagna offers a spicy layered bake worth diving into.
• Chicken Mushroom Alfredo combines earthiness and cream in the coziest way.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta if you’re open to swapping proteins.

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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 char the chicken on skewers? Did you add extra heat or keep it mellow?

I love seeing how others make these dishes their own. Got questions? Don’t hesitate to drop them below—we’re all here to cook smarter and tastier together.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners and pasta perfection on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite comfort dish!

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