Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Spicy Garlic Cheese Sauce

Save this recipe on:

Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Spicy Garlic Cheese Sauce is the kind of weeknight comfort food that hits every note—spicy, creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. Picture tender, smoky chicken bites nestled next to a tangle of creamy linguine, all bathed in a garlicky cheese sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. A sprinkle of chopped parsley and a few diced peppers on top give it that final restaurant-style flourish.

It’s a dish that transforms basic ingredients into something bold and unforgettable. The Cajun spices infuse the chicken with just the right amount of heat, while the garlic cheese sauce wraps around the pasta like a silky blanket. Perfect for feeding a hungry family or impressing dinner guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

---

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

• Bold Cajun Flavor: The chicken is seasoned generously with Cajun spices and seared until beautifully charred, delivering depth and a touch of smoky heat.
• Ultra Creamy Sauce: A rich cheese sauce infused with garlic takes this pasta dish to a whole new level of indulgence.
• Balanced Heat: It’s spicy enough to tingle the taste buds, but not so much that it overpowers the comforting creaminess.
• Quick but Impressive: Ready in under 40 minutes, but it looks and tastes like a dish from a cozy restaurant.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Reheats like a dream for lunch the next day.

---

What Kind of Linguine Should I Use?

Go with classic durum wheat linguine for the best texture and bite. It holds up well against the weight of the creamy cheese sauce and the juicy chunks of Cajun chicken. If you’re gluten-free, use your favorite GF linguine—just be careful not to overcook it.

You can also swap in fettuccine or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand. The key is choosing a pasta that can stand up to a bold sauce and a hearty protein.

---

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

To make this flavorful dish, each ingredient plays a key role in building layers of bold and creamy deliciousness.

• Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast works best here. It soaks up the Cajun seasoning and gets that perfect char when seared.
• Linguine Pasta: This pasta shape holds the creamy cheese sauce well and gives a satisfying bite.
• Cajun Seasoning: The heart of the flavor. A blend of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, oregano, and more.
• Heavy Cream: Provides richness and the creamy base for the sauce.
• Cream Cheese: Adds tang and thickens the sauce beautifully.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Gives the sauce its sharp, cheesy punch.
• Garlic (Minced): Key for that savory, aromatic kick.
• Butter: For sautéing and enhancing the sauce with richness.
• Olive Oil: Helps sear the chicken evenly and keeps it juicy.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning for balance.
• Chopped Parsley: Adds freshness and a pop of color to the final dish.
• Diced Red Bell Pepper (Optional): For a bit of crunch and sweet contrast.

---

How To Make the Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Spicy Garlic Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Sear the Cajun Chicken

Season chicken pieces generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Boil the Linguine

In a large pot of salted water, cook linguine until al dente. Drain and reserve a bit of pasta water.

Step 3: Start the Garlic Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 4: Make it Creamy

Pour in heavy cream and stir in cream cheese. Cook until smooth, then add shredded cheddar. Stir until the cheese is fully melted.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add cooked linguine to the sauce, tossing well to coat. Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Step 6: Bring It Together

Return the Cajun chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the pasta. Let everything heat through for a few minutes.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped parsley and optional diced red bell pepper over the top. Serve hot and creamy.

---

How to Serve and Store Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Spicy Garlic Cheese Sauce

This hearty dish feeds 4 hungry people generously and makes a great main course for family dinners or special occasions.

Serving Tips:

Serve immediately while it’s hot and the cheese sauce is velvety smooth. Plate with tongs to capture the creamy linguine and those spicy chicken chunks in every bite. Garnish with a fresh sprinkle of parsley and a few diced red peppers for a restaurant-style finish.

Storing Tips:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving too long as it may separate the sauce.

For freezing: While you can freeze this dish, the cream-based sauce may lose its texture upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days from the fridge.

---

What to Serve With Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine?

1. Garlic Bread

Crunchy, buttery, and perfect for mopping up that extra sauce.

2. Simple Green Salad

A crisp romaine or mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette brightens up the plate.

3. Roasted Broccoli

Adds a healthy, earthy contrast and roasts quickly alongside your pasta prep.

4. Cornbread Muffins

Sweet and fluffy cornbread pairs surprisingly well with the spice of the Cajun chicken.

5. Grilled Asparagus

Lightly charred asparagus with olive oil and lemon is a fresh, elegant option.

6. Cajun-Spiced Potato Wedges

Double down on Cajun flavor with a side of crispy, seasoned wedges.

7. Sweet Tea or Citrus Spritzers

Balance out the heat with something cold and refreshing.

---

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Kick?

If this Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Spicy Garlic Cheese Sauce has you craving more bold and comforting pasta dishes, you’ll love these flavorful favorites from the NoraNosh collection:

• Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna for a seafood twist with a buttery, zesty kick.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta when you want something rich and satisfying.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for a hearty, meaty bite with cheesy layers.
• One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta to make dinner cleanup effortless and delicious.
• Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe if you’re looking for a love-at-first-bite creamy classic.

---

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can revisit it whenever that cheesy, Cajun craving strikes.

Let us know how yours turned out! Did you add extra spice? Try a different cheese blend? Share your spin in the comments.

And if you’re hunting for even more recipe inspiration, explore beautifully curated health-boosting meals, desserts, and drinks over at NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: