Creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold Cajun flavor — this pasta is pure comfort food with a spicy kick! Tender chicken, smoky spices, and a rich garlic cheese sauce make this dish an unforgettable weeknight dinner winner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 lb linguine pasta
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes (for extra heat)
Instructions
1️⃣ Season the Chicken:
In a bowl, toss chicken pieces with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika until well coated.
2️⃣ Cook the Pasta:
Boil linguine until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3️⃣ Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook seasoned chicken for 6–8 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
4️⃣ Start the Sauce:
Melt butter in the same skillet. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
5️⃣ Make the Roux:
Whisk in flour and stir constantly for 1 minute to cook it through.
6️⃣ Build the Creamy Base:
Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth. Simmer until slightly thickened.
7️⃣ Add the Cheese:
Reduce heat to low and stir in cream cheese until smooth. Add 1½ cups mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
8️⃣ Combine Everything:
Add cooked pasta and chicken into the skillet. Toss until everything is coated in cheesy Cajun goodness.
9️⃣ Finish Under the Broiler:
Transfer pasta to a serving dish. Top with remaining ½ cup mozzarella and broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly and golden.
🔟 Serve & Enjoy:
Dish it up hot and creamy — your family won’t stop at one bowl!
Quick Info
Prep & Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: ~580 per serving (estimated)
Tips & Variations
- Add sautéed bell peppers or spinach for extra veggies.
- Use penne or fettuccine if you don’t have linguine.
- Swap Cajun seasoning with blackened seasoning for a deeper charred flavor.
- Want it extra spicy? Top with jalapeño slices or more red pepper flakes!
