Craving something bold, buttery, and utterly satisfying? This Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine in Creamy Parmesan Sauce brings together smoky spice, silky noodles, and cheesy indulgence all in one dish. It has that perfect blend of creamy comfort with a kick of Cajun heat—and it comes together quicker than you’d expect for a weeknight winner.
Each bite delivers tender chicken cubes seared in garlic butter, tossed in Cajun seasoning, and finished with a parmesan-rich cream sauce that clings beautifully to every strand of linguine. Whether you’re feeding family or impressing guests, this dish looks fancy, tastes incredible, and hits all the right notes.
What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine?
Linguine is the star here because its flat shape grabs onto the creamy sauce perfectly. However, if you’re out of linguine, feel free to sub in fettuccine, tagliatelle, or even spaghetti. Just avoid delicate pastas like angel hair—they won’t stand up to the hearty sauce and chunks of Cajun-spiced chicken.
Ingredients for the Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine
- Chicken Breasts – Boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into cubes delivers lean, tender bites that soak up the Cajun flavor beautifully.
- Cajun Seasoning – Adds bold heat and smokiness. You can go mild or spicy depending on your blend.
- Garlic – Fresh minced garlic brings in warmth and depth.
- Butter – For richness and that glossy finish on the chicken.
- Olive Oil – Helps sear the chicken without burning the butter.
- Heavy Cream – The base of the silky parmesan sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds salty, nutty, and melty goodness.
- Linguine Pasta – Holds the sauce beautifully with every twirl.
- Parsley – Optional, but perfect for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Season to taste and balance the richness.


How To Make the Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by tossing your chicken breast cubes in Cajun seasoning until they’re evenly coated. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a mix of olive oil and butter. Once hot, add the chicken and cook until golden and fully cooked through—about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, add a little more butter if needed and stir in the minced garlic. Let it cook for about a minute until fragrant, making sure it doesn’t burn.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce until smooth and velvety. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 4: Boil the Linguine
While the sauce is simmering, cook your linguine in a pot of salted boiling water according to package directions. Reserve a bit of pasta water before draining.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked linguine into the cream sauce along with a splash of reserved pasta water to help the sauce cling. Toss in the cooked chicken and stir to coat everything well.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Plate it up hot and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. A little extra parmesan on top never hurts!
Serving and Storing Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine
This pasta is best served fresh while the sauce is silky and the chicken is still juicy. Pair it with a simple green salad or warm garlic bread to complete the meal.
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving too long, as it can dry out the chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
How spicy is Cajun seasoning?
It depends on the brand or whether you make your own. Some blends are mild, while others bring serious heat. Taste your seasoning first to know what you’re working with.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Absolutely! Just warm it in the skillet with butter and garlic to infuse flavor before adding it to the sauce.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half or evaporated milk can work in a pinch, but the sauce won’t be as rich or thick.
Will grated parmesan in a bottle work?
Freshly grated parmesan melts better and gives the sauce a creamier texture. Bottled parmesan tends to be grainy.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead and combine them just before serving. Keep pasta and sauce separate if storing to avoid mushiness.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Cream-based sauces don’t always freeze well, as they can separate when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.
Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?
If you loved this Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine, here are some other delicious chicken pasta recipes you need to try:
- Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine – a zesty twist with buttery richness.
- Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta – ultra creamy and packed with cheesy goodness.
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes – for a hearty oven-baked option.
- One-Pot Creamy Chicken Cheddar Ranch Pasta – a cozy favorite that packs flavor with minimal cleanup.
- One Skillet Sweet & Spicy Sticky Chicken Pasta – if you love heat with a touch of sweet.
Looking for even more comfort food and family-friendly recipes? Follow along on my Pinterest for daily inspiration: Life with Nina on Pinterest.
Save This Pin + Share Your Results
📌 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 extra Cajun spice? Swap the pasta? Add veggies?
I love seeing how everyone adds their own flair. Don’t be shy—drop your questions or share your photos below. Let’s make dinner more delicious together!


Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine in Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Cajun-inspired
Description
This Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine in Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a one-pan comfort food classic with bold Cajun heat, buttery garlic chicken, and silky parmesan cream sauce clinging to every strand of linguine. Ready in under 30 minutes and perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken breasts, cubed
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 ½ cups heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
8 oz linguine pasta
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Toss the cubed chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
2. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Meanwhile, cook linguine in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
6. Add the cooked linguine and reserved pasta water to the sauce. Toss to combine.
7. Return the chicken to the pan and stir until well coated in the sauce.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra parmesan if desired.
Notes
Don’t overcook the garlic—just 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant is perfect.
For extra sauciness, reserve a bit more pasta water when draining.
Taste your Cajun seasoning first—some are spicier than others.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
Keywords: creamy chicken pasta, Cajun chicken linguine, garlic butter chicken
