Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Spicy Garlic Cheese Sauce

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Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Spicy Garlic Cheese Sauce is the kind of weeknight comfort food that hits all the right notes—rich, spicy, creamy, and totally satisfying. Imagine tender, golden Cajun-spiced chicken cubes nestled beside silky linguine coated in a luscious, cheesy sauce kissed with garlic and just the right hint of heat. Every bite balances warmth and creaminess, making it an instant family favorite or dinner party showstopper.

What makes this dish special is how easy it is to pull together without sacrificing bold flavors. It’s a single skillet and pot kind of meal, meaning minimal cleanup but maximum payoff. Whether you’re looking to impress or just reward yourself after a long day, this plate delivers everything you crave in one hearty, flavorful dish.

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What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Linguine is a great choice for this recipe because its flat, slightly thick shape holds up well under the weight of a rich sauce. It doesn’t clump and catches all that cheesy Cajun goodness in every strand. However, you can substitute fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne if needed—the sauce is the real star here, and it plays nicely with most pasta shapes.

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

• Chicken breast: The main protein, diced into bite-sized pieces, seasoned generously with Cajun spice for bold flavor.
• Linguine pasta: Acts as the base of the dish and soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Heavy cream: Essential for creating that ultra-silky, rich sauce that clings to the pasta.
• Garlic: Brings that irresistible aromatic punch to the cheese sauce.
• Cajun seasoning: The star spice blend, adding depth, color, and a little heat.
• Butter: Used for cooking the garlic and adding richness to the sauce.
• Cream cheese: Adds body and tang to the sauce, making it extra creamy.
• Shredded cheddar: Melts smoothly into the sauce and gives it that signature cheesy pull.
• Diced tomatoes: Offers slight acidity and freshness to balance the creaminess.
• Parsley: A fresh, herbaceous finish for color and brightness.

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

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

Toss the diced chicken breast in Cajun seasoning until well coated. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a bit of oil, then sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the linguine until al dente. Drain and reserve a bit of pasta water for later, if needed.

Step 3: Start the Sauce Base

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and let it gently simmer. Stir in cream cheese and allow it to melt, whisking to avoid lumps. Add shredded cheddar gradually, stirring until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Add Flavor Boosters

Stir in the diced tomatoes and a touch more Cajun seasoning. Simmer the sauce for a few minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained linguine to the sauce, tossing gently to coat every strand. Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce needs thinning.

Step 7: Plate and Finish

Serve the creamy pasta on a plate and top or serve with the cooked Cajun chicken. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

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Serving and Storing This Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine

This pasta is best served immediately while it’s hot and creamy, with the chicken just off the skillet. For added texture, you can garnish with a sprinkle of extra cheddar or even a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

To store leftovers, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen up the sauce if needed. Avoid freezing, as the dairy-based sauce may separate.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can make a quick blend using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Or try substituting with Creole seasoning for a similar effect.

Can I use shrimp instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Shrimp cooks quickly and pairs beautifully with the spicy garlic cheese sauce. Just be sure to season and sear them quickly to avoid overcooking.

How spicy is this dish?

It has a noticeable warmth, but not overwhelming heat. You can adjust the spice level by using more or less Cajun seasoning or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the chicken for mushrooms or roasted cauliflower. The creamy, cheesy sauce still works beautifully with veggie substitutes.

What cheese works best?

Cheddar is rich and sharp, but Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even mozzarella can be used depending on your preference.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free linguine or your favorite GF pasta alternative. Make sure your Cajun seasoning and cream cheese are also labeled gluten-free.

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Want More Creamy Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine, you’ll definitely want to check out these comforting favorites from Life with Jam:

• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli — a one-pot creamy dream with bite-sized pasta.
• One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta for a hearty weeknight dinner.
• Red Pepper Rigatoni that’s bold, cheesy, and veggie-forward.
• Creamy Tortellini Recipe when you want ultra-comfort in a bowl.
• Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo for a meaty twist on Cajun spice.

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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 use shrimp or chicken? Did you go heavier on the spice?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

👉 For more mouthwatering weeknight meals and comfort food ideas, follow along on Pinterest: Life with Jam

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