Description
This Spicy Garlic Chicken Linguine with Creamy Cajun Cheese Sauce is a bold, zesty, and comforting pasta dish featuring tender chicken, a fiery garlic kick, and a smooth, cheesy Cajun-infused sauce perfectly tossed with linguine. Ready in under 30 minutes, it combines vibrant flavors with an indulgent, velvety texture, ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein & Pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, tender and juicy
- 8 ounces linguine pasta
Spices & Aromatics
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Dairy & Fats
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh Herbs & Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare and Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the linguine. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving half a cup of pasta water, and set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Add to skillet and cook 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside to rest, then slice into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Creamy Cajun Cheese Sauce: Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Slowly pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly. Add additional Cajun seasoning to taste, then gradually mix in shredded cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy. If the sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time.
- Combine and Toss: Add the cooked linguine and sliced chicken back to the skillet. Toss everything gently to coat the linguine in the creamy Cajun cheese sauce evenly. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a vibrant finish and serve immediately while the sauce is warm and luscious.
Notes
- Use freshly minced garlic for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- Adjust the Cajun seasoning amount to control spice level.
- Reserve pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Add cheese slowly on low heat to avoid clumping and get a silky sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
Keywords: Spicy garlic chicken, Cajun linguine, creamy cheese sauce, quick pasta recipe, weeknight dinner, comfort food