If you’re craving a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying pasta dinner, this Garlic Parmesan Cheddar Chicken Linguine in Creamy Butter Sauce will become your new favorite. Golden Cajun-spiced chicken pairs with silky linguine swirled in a luscious sauce made with garlic, Parmesan, cheddar, and butter. It’s the perfect balance of bold seasoning, velvety texture, and rich flavor.

This recipe is hearty enough for a family dinner but elegant enough for entertaining. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a dish that tastes like it came from a restaurant — right at home.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp garlic butter
• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta & Sauce

• 1 lb linguine
• 6 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 4 cups whole milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp onion powder
• 2 tbsp garlic butter (for finishing)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Cook the Chicken

Toss chicken pieces with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp garlic butter over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

Step 2 – Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3 – Make the Cream Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt 6 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth. Simmer 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens.

Step 4 – Add the Cheese

Lower the heat and stir in shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Step 5 – Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add cooked linguine into the skillet and toss until evenly coated in the cheesy garlic butter sauce. Stir in the remaining 2 tbsp garlic butter for an extra layer of richness.

Step 6 – Serve

Plate the creamy pasta and top with golden Cajun chicken. Garnish with parsley or extra Parmesan cheese.

Recipe Info

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: ~750 per serving

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cheesy Goodness – Parmesan and cheddar create a rich, bold flavor.
• Creamy Texture – The buttery sauce clings beautifully to linguine.
• Spiced Chicken – Cajun seasoning gives the chicken a golden, flavorful crust.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes.

Tips and Variations

• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
• Vegetable Boost: Stir in spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms.
• Protein Swap: Use shrimp or turkey instead of chicken.
• Cheese Variations: Try Monterey Jack or Asiago for a twist.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Cook the chicken and sauce ahead, then reheat and toss with pasta before serving.

What to Serve with Garlic Parmesan Cheddar Chicken Linguine

• Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
• A crisp Caesar salad
• Roasted asparagus or green beans
• A glass of Chardonnay or sparkling water with lemon

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 750
• Protein: 42 g
• Fat: 34 g
• Carbohydrates: 68 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 5 g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes. Penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni work just as well.

Can I substitute heavy cream for milk?
Yes. Heavy cream makes the sauce even richer, but milk keeps it lighter.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but pasta is best served fresh. Store sauce and chicken separately, then toss with freshly cooked pasta.

Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The cheesy sauce and tender chicken make it a family favorite.

Conclusion

This Garlic Parmesan Cheddar Chicken Linguine in Creamy Butter Sauce is the ultimate comfort pasta. With Cajun-spiced chicken, a silky garlic-Parmesan-cheddar sauce, and buttery linguine, it delivers restaurant-worthy flavor in just 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknights, gatherings, or whenever you need a cheesy, comforting meal.