Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine (Print Version)
Spicy Cajun chicken, tender linguine, rich garlic mozzarella sauce, and Parmesan for a satisfying pasta dinner.
# Ingredients:
→ Chicken Preparation
01 -
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
02 -
2 tablespoons olive oil
03 -
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
04 -
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
05 -
1 teaspoon salt
06 -
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
07 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
08 -
1 teaspoon onion powder
→ Pasta
09 -
1 pound linguine
→ Sauce
10 -
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
11 -
5 cloves garlic, minced
12 -
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
13 -
3 cups whole milk
14 -
1 cup chicken broth
15 -
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
16 -
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
17 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
18 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
19 -
Red pepper flakes, optional
# Instructions:
01 -
In a medium bowl, combine chicken pieces with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika until thoroughly coated.
02 -
Cook linguine in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
03 -
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
04 -
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
05 -
Whisk in flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute to form a roux.
06 -
Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth, ensuring the sauce is smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
07 -
Reduce heat to low. Stir in softened cream cheese, mixing until melted and fully incorporated.
08 -
Add 1 1/2 cups of mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir until completely melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
09 -
Add the cooked linguine and sautéed chicken to the sauce. Toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.
10 -
Transfer the coated pasta to a serving dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top. Broil in the oven for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
# Notes:
01 -
For a spicier profile, add extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Allow cooked chicken to rest briefly for maximum juiciness before combining with the pasta.