One-Pot Spicy Chicken Linguine in Creamy Sauce

I make this One-Pot Spicy Chicken Linguine when I want a quick, flavorful dinner that’s creamy, spicy, and easy to clean up afterward. Everything cooks together in one pot, making it perfect for busy nights when I want comfort food fast.

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

What I love most is how the spices and creamy sauce infuse the pasta and chicken all at once, delivering bold flavor with minimal effort. The one-pot method means I don’t have to juggle multiple dishes, and the result is a rich, satisfying meal packed with a little kick.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
• boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
• linguine pasta
• olive oil
• garlic, minced
• crushed red pepper flakes
• diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• chicken broth
• heavy cream
• grated Parmesan cheese
• salt and pepper
• fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)

directions

I heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, then add diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper. I cook the chicken until lightly browned but not fully cooked through. Then, I add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant. Next, I pour in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream, stirring to combine. I break the linguine in half and add it to the pot, making sure it’s submerged in the liquid. I bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens. Finally, I stir in grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 people. Prep and cooking take around 30–35 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I add sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor. I adjust the heat level by adding more or less crushed red pepper flakes. For a lighter version, I substitute half-and-half or milk for heavy cream.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the pasta gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat depends on the amount of red pepper flakes; I usually use a moderate amount but adjust to taste.

Can I make this dairy-free?

I substitute heavy cream and Parmesan with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and vegan cheese.

What if I don’t have linguine?

I use any long pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine as a substitute.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

It’s best fresh, but I’ve reheated leftovers with good results.

Conclusion

One-Pot Spicy Chicken Linguine in Creamy Sauce is one of my favorite quick dinners that delivers creamy, spicy comfort with easy cleanup. It’s perfect for busy nights when I want a satisfying meal without the fuss.

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