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 breast 2 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp red pepper flakes 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cups chicken broth 1 cup heavy cream; 0.75 cup grated Parmesan cheese 12 oz linguine pasta; 0.75 tsp salt; 0.5 tsp black pepper 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

When you’re craving a dinner that’s bold, comforting, and ultra-satisfying without the pile of dishes, this One-Pot Spicy Chicken Linguine is your answer. Packed with seared chicken breast, a fiery yet creamy sauce, and al dente linguine — all made in just one pot — this is the kind of meal that makes weeknight cooking feel like a treat.

Each bite is full of flavor, with the heat of red pepper flakes perfectly balanced by a rich, velvety cream sauce that clings to every strand of linguine. Plus, it’s quick, easy, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or meal prepping for the week.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Spicy Chicken Linguine in Creamy Sauce

All made in one pot — less cleanup, more flavor!
A creamy, spicy sauce that’s bold without being overwhelming
Chicken breast stays juicy and flavorful with a quick sear
Comes together in about 30 minutes
Comfort food meets convenience — perfect for busy nights

What’s the Best Pasta for a One-Pot Creamy Dish Like This?

Linguine is ideal for this recipe because its flat, slightly thick shape holds onto creamy sauces beautifully. You can also substitute with fettuccine, spaghetti, or tagliatelle if needed. Avoid short pasta shapes for this one — long strands create that indulgent twirl-and-savor experience.

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

Every ingredient in this dish has a purpose — simple staples that come together for incredible flavor:

Chicken breast – Lean and tender protein that sears beautifully and absorbs flavor.
Olive oil – Helps get that perfect golden sear on the chicken.
Red pepper flakes – Brings the heat and signature spicy kick.
Garlic (minced) – Adds a depth of flavor that blends into the creamy sauce.
Chicken broth – Infuses the pasta as it cooks and builds a savory base.
Heavy cream – Creates a rich, luscious texture for the sauce.
Parmesan cheese – Adds umami, saltiness, and brings the sauce together.
Linguine pasta – Cooks directly in the sauce to soak up every bit of flavor.
Salt and black pepper – Essential seasoning to balance flavors.
Fresh parsley – For garnish and a pop of freshness.

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

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high. Season sliced chicken with salt and pepper, then sear until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Chili Flakes

In the same pot, reduce heat to medium. Add a bit more oil if needed, then toss in minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Liquid and Pasta

Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir, then add the uncooked linguine. Make sure the pasta is submerged.

Step 4: Simmer and Stir

Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking, until pasta is al dente and the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Stir in Cheese and Chicken

Once the pasta is tender and the sauce has reduced, stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Return the cooked chicken to the pot and stir to coat.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra red pepper flakes if desired.

Serving and Storing One-Pot Spicy Chicken Linguine in Creamy Sauce

This dish serves 4 generous portions and is best enjoyed hot and fresh, straight from the pot. The creamy sauce is at its peak when just made, clinging perfectly to the linguine and chicken.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or broth to bring back the sauce’s silky texture.

Freezing isn’t ideal for cream-based pastas, as the sauce may split when thawed. For best results, enjoy within a few days of making.

What to Serve With One-Pot Spicy Chicken Linguine in Creamy Sauce?

Garlic Bread or Toasted Baguette

Great for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce.

Simple Green Salad

A crisp romaine or arugula salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pasta.

Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans

Light, healthy greens that balance the spicy, creamy flavors.

Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Adds a burst of sweetness and acidity to brighten up the dish.

Grilled Zucchini or Eggplant

Earthy, smoky vegetables pair beautifully with the creamy base.

Fresh Lemon Wedges

A squeeze over the top helps brighten the flavors and cool the heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of chicken?

Yes! Boneless chicken thighs work great and stay extra juicy. Just slice them thinly for faster cooking.

How spicy is this dish?

It has a mild to moderate kick depending on how much red pepper you use. Adjust the flakes to your heat preference.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

You can try substituting coconut cream for heavy cream and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

What if the sauce thickens too much?

Just stir in a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating to loosen it back up.

Can I add veggies to this pasta?

Absolutely! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers are great additions stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest quick dinner board so you can make it again anytime.

Tried it? Drop a comment below — did you add extra spice or sneak in veggies? I’d love to hear your twist on it.

Hungry for more comforting one-pot meals? Head over to Tanya Recipes on Pinterest to keep your menu exciting and stress-free!

Conclusion

One-Pot Spicy Chicken Linguine in Creamy Sauce is proof that easy doesn’t have to mean boring. It’s bold, flavorful, and satisfying in every bite — all made in a single pan.

When time is short but you still want something comforting and impressive, this pasta delivers. Creamy, spicy, and full of texture, it’s a dinner winner you’ll come back to again and again.

One-Pot Spicy Chicken Linguine in Creamy Sauce

Author: Tanya Rivers
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This One-Pot Spicy Chicken Linguine in Creamy Sauce is a game-changing weeknight dinner — bold in flavor, rich in texture, and ready in under 30 minutes. Juicy chicken strips are seared and simmered in a creamy, garlicky broth with a subtle kick from red pepper flakes. The best part? The pasta cooks right in the same pot, soaking up all that goodness. It’s comfort food without the cleanup — a quick, spicy, and creamy pasta recipe perfect for busy nights or cozy dinners in.

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season sliced chicken with salt and pepper. Sear until golden and cooked through, then remove and set aside.

2. In the same pot, lower heat and add more oil if needed. Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes for 1 minute.

3. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a simmer.

4. Add uncooked linguine and gently press down to submerge in liquid.

5. Cook uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring often, until pasta is al dente and sauce thickens.

6. Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth.

7. Return cooked chicken to the pot and mix well.

8. Taste, adjust seasoning, and garnish with parsley and extra chili flakes before serving.