When I first threw together this Spicy Cajun Chicken and Linguine, it was simply a “what’s-in-the-pantry” weeknight experiment. I needed something filling, quick, and—most importantly—easy on the dishes. But from the very first bite, I knew this wasn’t just a convenient dinner; it was a recipe worth keeping on repeat. Juicy, Cajun-spiced chicken, silky linguine, and a creamy, buttery sauce all come together in one skillet for a meal that’s as bold as it is comforting.
This dish is the definition of weeknight magic—minimal effort, maximum flavor. The Cajun spices bring heat and smokiness, the pasta soaks up every bit of that rich sauce, and the whole thing tastes like something you’d order at a cozy bistro.
Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Cajun Pasta
- Full of flavor: Smoky, spicy Cajun seasoning paired with creamy sauce makes every bite unforgettable.
- Easy clean-up: Everything cooks in one pan. Less mess, less stress.
- Customizable: Swap proteins, tweak the spice level, or add veggies to make it your own.
- Quick to the table: Ready in about 30 minutes—perfect for weeknights.
The Best Pasta for This Dish
Linguine is my favorite for this recipe—it’s hearty enough to hold the sauce but still tender and silky. That said, you’re not stuck with just one choice. Fettuccine is another excellent option, spaghetti works if you want something classic, and pappardelle makes it extra indulgent.
Ingredient Swaps & Add-Ins
- Protein: Try shrimp, sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian spin.
- Pasta: Use penne, rotini, or gluten-free pasta if that’s what you have on hand.
- Veggies: Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
- Heat level: Tone it down with less Cajun seasoning—or kick it up with a pinch of cayenne.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless & skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How to Make Spicy Cajun Chicken Linguine
Step 1 – Season the Chicken
Toss the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning until coated on all sides.
Step 2 – Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden and cooked through (about 5–7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
Step 3 – Build the Base
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
Step 4 – Create the Sauce
Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in heavy cream and let simmer until slightly thickened.
Step 5 – Cook the Pasta
Add uncooked linguine to the skillet, making sure it’s mostly covered in sauce. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and the sauce has reduced.
Step 6 – Bring It Together
Return the chicken to the pan and toss everything until well coated. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing chicken—you want that golden crust.
- Taste your Cajun seasoning; some blends are spicier than others.
- Stir pasta occasionally so it cooks evenly and doesn’t clump.
- Keep extra broth handy in case the sauce thickens too much.
What to Serve With It
- Garlic bread 🥖 for dipping into the creamy sauce.
- A crisp arugula salad 🥗 with lemon vinaigrette.
- Roasted veggies like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli.
- A glass of chilled white wine 🍷 to balance the heat.
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Not ideal for the cream sauce, but you can freeze for up to 2 months if needed.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.
Nutrition (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 650–700
- Protein: 40–45g
- Carbs: 60–65g
- Fat: 30–35g
- Sodium: 1000–1200mg
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Cajun Chicken and Linguine in One-Pan Wonder is everything you want in a weeknight dinner—fast, flavorful, and comforting. With its smoky Cajun kick, creamy sauce, and tender pasta, it’s a dish that feels restaurant-worthy without the fuss. Perfect for busy nights, meal prep, or when you just want a bowl of spicy, buttery comfort.
Grab your skillet and let this one-pan wonder earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation!