Creamy One Pot Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Parmesan Sauce

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This Creamy One Pot Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort dish with a bold, flavorful kick. The chicken is seared to perfection with smoky Cajun spices, resting atop a bed of silky linguine drenched in a garlic-infused parmesan cream sauce. Each forkful delivers a rich and spicy harmony that feels indulgent but comes together with surprising ease in just one pot.

Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this recipe balances creamy decadence with zesty Cajun flair. The one-pot method means less cleanup and more time enjoying what really matters—savoring an unforgettable meal with family or friends. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a restaurant-style dinner at home, this dish hits the mark.


What Kind of Cajun Seasoning Should I Use?

A good Cajun seasoning brings heat, flavor, and complexity. Choose a blend that includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, and thyme. Some store-bought options are saltier than others, so taste and adjust accordingly. If you’re sensitive to spice, go for a milder blend or use less and adjust to your liking.


Ingredients for the Creamy One Pot Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Parmesan Sauce

  • Chicken Breasts: Sliced and seared for juicy, golden bites of protein.
  • Linguine: The perfect pasta for soaking up every drop of creamy sauce.
  • Cajun Seasoning: The heart of the flavor, giving the dish its spicy, smoky depth.
  • Heavy Cream: For richness and that irresistible silky texture.
  • Garlic: Freshly minced to infuse the sauce with bold aroma and flavor.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Brings salty nuttiness and thickens the sauce.
  • Chicken Broth: Adds flavor and helps cook the pasta right in the pot.
  • Olive Oil + Butter: For searing the chicken and building a rich base for the sauce.
  • Parsley: A bright, fresh garnish that cuts through the richness beautifully.

How To Make the Creamy One Pot Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season both sides of the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning. In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside to rest.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add a bit more butter if needed. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.

Step 3: Add Broth and Pasta

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Add the linguine and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 8–10 minutes or until the pasta is nearly cooked through and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine, then fold in the grated parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens and the pasta finishes cooking, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 5: Slice and Finish

Slice the cooked chicken and lay it on top of the pasta. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of parmesan if desired. Serve hot right from the pot.


How to Serve and Store Your Cajun Chicken Linguine

Serve this dish piping hot straight from the skillet with a sprinkle of extra parmesan and parsley. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. For a Southern touch, serve it with garlic bread or even a slice of cornbread.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium-low heat with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. Freezing isn’t ideal due to the dairy-based sauce, which may separate.


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti all work well, though cook times may vary slightly.

Is this dish very spicy?

The heat level depends on your Cajun seasoning. Start with less and adjust as you go to suit your preference.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free parmesan or nutritional yeast.

What protein alternatives work here?

Shrimp or sliced andouille sausage are great swaps. You can also try tofu for a vegetarian twist.

Can I prep it ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken and chop the garlic in advance, but for best texture and flavor, cook the pasta fresh.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat low once the cream is added and avoid rapid boiling. Stir constantly and add cheese gradually.


Want More Pasta Ideas with a Kick?

If you love this creamy one-pot Cajun chicken linguine, don’t miss these bold and comforting meals:


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Creamy One Pot Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Parmesan Sauce


  • Author: Olivia McKenney
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

This one-pot Cajun chicken linguine is loaded with bold flavor and velvety sauce. Tender seared chicken sits atop creamy garlic parmesan pasta, all simmered together in a single skillet. Perfect for weeknight comfort or impressing guests with ease.


Ingredients

2 large chicken breasts, sliced

8 oz linguine

2 tbsp Cajun seasoning

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)


Instructions

  1. Season both sides of chicken with Cajun seasoning.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. Add garlic to the same pan and sauté for 30 seconds.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Add linguine and cook 8–10 minutes until almost tender.
  5. Lower heat, stir in cream and parmesan. Simmer 3–4 minutes until thick and creamy.
  6. Slice the cooked chicken and return to the skillet. Top with parsley and extra parmesan. Serve hot.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner

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