Name: One-Pot Spicy Chicken Linguine in Creamy Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breasts, thinly sliced; 12 oz linguine pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste); 1 cup heavy cream; 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup reserved pasta water

Bold, creamy, and just the right amount of spicy, this One-Pot Spicy Chicken Linguine is a weeknight dinner dream. Think tender linguine noodles tossed in a velvety sauce infused with garlic, chili flakes, and paprika—then topped with perfectly seared, juicy chicken strips. It’s the kind of meal that hits every comfort note, with only one pot to wash afterward.

What makes this pasta irresistible is the silky texture of the sauce, which clings to every ribbon of linguine thanks to a balance of cream and reserved pasta water. It’s smoky from the paprika, rich from the cheese, and layered with subtle heat. Plus, the entire dish is ready in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to option for busy nights.

What Kind of Linguine Should I Use?

You can use any regular dried linguine, but if you want a bit more bite and flavor, go for bronze-cut pasta. It holds onto the sauce better thanks to its rougher surface. Avoid fresh pasta for this recipe—it cooks too fast and won’t absorb the flavor in the same way.

Ingredients for the One-Pot Spicy Chicken Linguine in Creamy Sauce

Chicken breasts – Sliced thin and pan-seared for a smoky, golden crust. This is the protein star of the dish.
Linguine pasta – The long, flat shape makes it perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce.
Heavy cream – This forms the luscious base of the sauce and gives it a rich texture.
Parmesan cheese – Adds saltiness and nutty depth to the creamy sauce.
Garlic – Minced and sautéed to build an aromatic foundation.
Paprika – Gives the dish its smoky tone and mild earthiness.
Red chili flakes – For that spicy kick that elevates the whole flavor profile.
Olive oil – Used to sear the chicken and toast the garlic.
Salt and pepper – Essential seasonings to balance and enhance flavors.
Reserved pasta water – A little starchy water helps the sauce cling and emulsify beautifully.

How To Make the One-Pot Spicy Chicken Linguine in Creamy Sauce

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and a dash of paprika. Sear for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Spices

In the same pot, lower the heat to medium and add a little more olive oil if needed. Toss in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the paprika and red chili flakes, letting them bloom for a few seconds to deepen their flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Linguine

Pour in water (or chicken broth for more flavor) and bring it to a boil. Add the linguine and cook until al dente, stirring often to prevent sticking. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Return the cooked linguine to the pot and add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir until the sauce becomes silky and clings to the pasta.

Step 5: Add Chicken and Finish

Slice the seared chicken if needed and place it on top of the creamy linguine. Let everything warm together for a minute or two. Garnish with more chili flakes or a sprinkle of cheese before serving if desired.

Best Ways to Serve and Store This Creamy Chicken Linguine

Serve this dish hot straight from the pot, ideally with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a pinch of chili flakes on top. Pair it with a crisp green salad or some warm garlic bread for a restaurant-worthy meal at home. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, drizzle a bit of garlic butter over the chicken before serving.

For storing, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk to bring the sauce back to life and microwave gently or warm on the stovetop over low heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes! Penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti all work well. Just make sure to adjust the cook time accordingly.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or even a mix of milk and cream cheese for a lighter version. Keep in mind the sauce may be slightly thinner.

Is this dish too spicy for kids?

The spice level is mild to moderate. To make it more kid-friendly, reduce or omit the chili flakes.

Can I make it ahead?

Absolutely! Cook everything and store it in the fridge. Reheat with a splash of liquid to revive the creaminess.

Can I freeze this?

It’s not ideal. Cream-based sauces can separate when frozen and reheated, which may affect the texture. Better to enjoy it fresh or from the fridge.

How do I make it vegetarian?

Swap the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or plant-based chicken alternatives. Everything else stays the same!

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Kick?

If you’re into creamy, spicy, or downright comforting pasta dishes, you’ll want to check out these other weeknight winners:

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli for a hearty one-bowl meal.
Red Pepper Rigatoni: A Creamy Bold Pasta Delight that brings smoky heat and vibrant flavor.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for a fusion twist on a classic sandwich.
Skillet Ricotta Pasta with Roasted Broccoli when you want cozy and veggie-packed.
One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta to satisfy serious cravings.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s ready for your next cozy evening in.

And let me know in the comments how you made it yours! Did you add mushrooms or roasted veggies? Did you turn up the heat with extra flakes?

I absolutely love hearing your takes on these recipes. Questions? Tips? Don’t be shy—let’s make dinner delicious together.

Looking for more quick and satisfying meals? Check out my Pinterest boards at Life with Jam for new ideas I share daily.

One-Pot Spicy Chicken Linguine in Creamy Sauce

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This One-Pot Spicy Chicken Linguine in Creamy Sauce is the ultimate cozy dinner. Juicy seared chicken meets a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce infused with smoky paprika and chili flakes—all in one pan. Ready in under 30 minutes and perfect for spice-lovers craving a quick, comforting pasta dish.

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.

2. In the same pot, reduce heat to medium. Add more oil if needed, then sauté garlic until fragrant (30 seconds). Stir in paprika and chili flakes.

3. Add water (or chicken broth) to the pot and bring to a boil. Add linguine and cook until al dente, stirring occasionally. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

4. Lower heat. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan until melted and smooth. Return pasta to the pot and add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

5. Slice and return chicken to the pot. Stir to combine or leave it on top. Garnish with more Parmesan and chili flakes if desired.