Chicken Cajun Alfredo Linguine Recipe

Introduction

Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Alfredo is a delightful fusion of creamy Alfredo sauce with a spicy Cajun twist. This comforting dish combines tender chicken, rich cheeses, and flavorful seasonings, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

The image shows a white plate with two main parts: on one side, there is a large serving of creamy spaghetti pasta, pale yellow in color, topped with finely chopped green herbs scattered evenly. On the other side, there are seven pieces of browned, grilled chicken wings arranged close together, covered in a light tan creamy sauce with herbs mixed in, creating a rich texture contrast. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 1 pound linguine pasta
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ pounds total)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt (to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine until al dente according to package directions. Drain, drizzle lightly with olive oil, and set aside.
  2. Step 2: Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise for thinner cutlets. Pat dry and season generously with Cajun seasoning.
  3. Step 3: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Transfer to a plate, let rest for 5 minutes, then slice thickly.
  4. Step 4: Lower the heat to medium and add the garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Step 5: Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Add Velveeta cubes, mozzarella, and Parmesan, stirring until melted into a thick, glossy sauce.
  6. Step 6: Season with smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir in a little more Cajun seasoning if you want extra kick.
  7. Step 7: Add the linguine to the skillet and toss until every strand is coated in the creamy Velveeta garlic Cajun Alfredo sauce.
  8. Step 8: Serve with pasta on one side and sliced chicken on the other. Drizzle extra sauce over the chicken and garnish with parsley.

Tips & Variations

  • For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
  • Use smoked sausage or shrimp instead of chicken for a different protein option.
  • If you prefer less heat, reduce the Cajun seasoning or omit the smoked paprika.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan adds better flavor than pre-grated varieties.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed to loosen the sauce.

How to Serve

The image shows a white plate with two main parts: on the right side, there are six browned chicken pieces covered in a creamy, light yellow sauce with herbs mixed in; on the left side, there is a large serving of pale yellow pasta noodles topped with small green herb sprinkles. The chicken looks crispy with darker brown spots, and the sauce around it has a smooth texture. The pasta is arranged loosely with a slightly shiny surface from the sauce, and both parts are placed next to each other on the plate. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta instead of linguine?

Yes, fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti all work well with the creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce.

Is Velveeta necessary for this recipe?

Velveeta adds a smooth, creamy texture and melty richness, but you can substitute with cream cheese or extra mozzarella for a different but still delicious result.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Chicken Cajun Alfredo Linguine Recipe


  • Author: Charlotte
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Alfredo is a rich and creamy pasta dish featuring tender, flavorful chicken seasoned with Cajun spices and smothered in a decadent Velveeta-based Alfredo sauce. Perfectly cooked linguine tossed in a cheesy garlic cream sauce delivers a comforting and satisfying meal with a spicy kick, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.


Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 1 pound linguine pasta

Chicken

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ pounds total)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)

Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt (to taste)

Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Linguine: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine until al dente following the package directions. Once cooked, drain the pasta, drizzle lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. Pat them dry thoroughly and season generously on both sides with Cajun seasoning to infuse flavor.
  3. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side or until the exterior is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice thickly.
  4. Sauté the Garlic: Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  5. Make the Alfredo Sauce: Pour in the heavy whipping cream and stir well, scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the skillet. Add the cubed Velveeta cheese, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until all the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes thick and glossy.
  6. Season the Sauce: Stir in smoked paprika, black pepper, and kosher salt to taste. Add a bit more Cajun seasoning if a stronger spice flavor is desired. Mix well to combine all the spices evenly in the sauce.
  7. Toss Linguine in Sauce: Add the cooked linguine to the skillet with the sauce. Toss thoroughly so every strand is coated with the creamy and cheesy Cajun Alfredo sauce.
  8. Serve: Plate the coated linguine on one side and arrange the sliced chicken on the other side. Drizzle any remaining sauce over the chicken and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a bright finish.

Notes

  • Resting the chicken before slicing ensures the juices stay locked in for tender bites.
  • Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste, especially if you prefer milder or spicier dishes.
  • Use fresh parsley as garnish to add a pop of color and freshness to the rich dish.
  • Velveeta creates a creamy, smooth texture; if unavailable, you could substitute with another processed cheese though consistency may vary.
  • To save time, chicken can be grilled or baked but searing in the skillet adds the best flavor.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Chicken linguine, Cajun Alfredo, creamy pasta, Velveeta cheese pasta, spicy chicken pasta, garlic Alfredo sauce

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating