Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine

This creamy Cajun chicken linguine brings all the flavors of Louisiana to your dinner table with a rich, cheesy garlic sauce that clings beautifully to every strand of pasta. The golden, spiced chicken pieces nestled throughout add the perfect kick of heat that balances the decadent mozzarella sauce.

I first made this pasta when my sister visited from New Orleans, and she declared it tasted just like home. Now it's our go-to dish whenever anyone needs a little comfort with a kick.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: these provide lean protein and take on the Cajun seasoning beautifully
• Cajun seasoning: the heart of this dish providing authentic Louisiana flavor with minimal effort
• Linguine pasta: the flat noodles hold the creamy sauce perfectly
• Cream cheese: creates an unbelievably silky texture and tangy depth to the sauce
• Mozzarella cheese: adds that irresistible stretch and mild flavor that complements the spicy chicken
• Smoked paprika: enhances the Cajun seasoning with a subtle smoky dimension
• Garlic: fresh minced cloves create the aromatic foundation of the sauce
• Whole milk: provides richness to the sauce without being too heavy

How To Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine

Season the chicken:

Toss bite-sized chicken pieces thoroughly with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika, making sure each piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor development.

Cook the pasta:

Boil the linguine in generously salted water until perfectly al dente, about 9 minutes. Remember to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Sauté the chicken:

Cook the seasoned chicken in a large skillet over medium-high heat until golden brown on all sides and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. The caramelization of the spices creates incredible depth of flavor.

Create the roux base:

In the same skillet, melt butter then add minced garlic until fragrant. Whisk in flour and cook for a full minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. This step creates the foundation for your silky sauce.

Build the creamy sauce:

Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth, ensuring a smooth texture. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently until the sauce begins to thicken. Patience here creates the perfect consistency.

Incorporate the cheeses:

Reduce heat to low and add softened cream cheese, stirring until completely melted, then add mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. The combination creates the perfect balance of creaminess and flavor.

Combine components:

Toss the cooked linguine and sautéed chicken in the cheese sauce, ensuring every strand of pasta is thoroughly coated. The heat from the pasta will help further melt the cheese.

Final broil:

Transfer to a serving dish, top with remaining mozzarella, and broil briefly until bubbly and golden for that irresistible cheese pull.

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My favorite part of this recipe is watching everyone's faces light up when they take their first bite. The combination of creamy cheese and Cajun spice creates such a surprising yet satisfying flavor profile that never disappoints even the pickiest eaters.

Storage and Reheating

This Cajun chicken linguine keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight making leftovers something to look forward to. When reheating add a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce as it tends to thicken in the refrigerator. Warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from breaking.

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Perfect Pairings

This rich pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. For a complete Cajun-inspired meal, serve alongside garlic bread with a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning on top. A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer complements the spicy notes without overwhelming the dish. For a complete experience, finish your meal with a small serving of bread pudding with bourbon sauce for an authentic New Orleans inspired dinner.

Spice Level Adjustments

The beauty of this Cajun chicken linguine lies in its adaptability to your heat preference. For milder palates reduce the Cajun seasoning to 1 tablespoon and omit the red pepper flakes. The dish will still maintain its characteristic flavor without overwhelming sensitive taste buds. For heat lovers increase the Cajun seasoning to 3 tablespoons and add a diced jalapeño with the garlic. You can also finish the dish with a drizzle of hot honey for a sweet heat dimension that elevates the entire experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of pasta for this dish?

Yes, you can substitute linguine with fettuccine, spaghetti, or any pasta of your choice. Short pasta like penne or rigatoni also works well to hold the creamy sauce.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

To add extra heat, increase the Cajun seasoning or sprinkle in additional red pepper flakes. You can also use a spicier blend of Cajun spices for a more intense flavor.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare it ahead of time. Store in an airtight container in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

→ What can I serve with Cajun chicken linguine?

This dish pairs beautifully with a green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. These sides complement the rich and creamy flavors while adding balance to the meal.

→ Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, pre-cooked chicken like rotisserie or leftovers can be used. Simply cut it into bite-sized pieces, season with Cajun spices, and toss it into the sauce after it's prepared.

→ Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

To lighten the dish, you can substitute low-fat milk, reduced-fat cream cheese, or use less cheese overall. Whole grain or alternative pasta can also be used for a healthier twist.