Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine
A creamy linguine tossed with spicy Cajun-seasoned chicken in a rich garlic-cheese sauce—comforting, flavorful, and easy enough for cozy weeknights.
For the Chicken
- 1 lb boneless chicken breasts cut bite-sized
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 Tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
For the Pasta & Sauce
- 1 lb linguine
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 5 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 divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- Salt black pepper, red pepper flakes (optional)
Boil linguine in salted water until al dente (10–12 min). Drain and set aside.
Toss chicken with olive oil and all seasonings. Sear in a hot skillet for 6–8 min until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté garlic for 1 min, then stir in flour for 1 min.
Whisk in milk and broth. Simmer 3–4 min. Add cream cheese and stir until smooth.
Stir in 1½ cups mozzarella and Parmesan. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Add chicken and linguine to the sauce. Toss well to coat.
Transfer to oven-safe dish, top with remaining ½ cup mozzarella, and broil 2–3 min until bubbly. Serve hot.