Description
This One-Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine is a flavorful and easy meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 250g linguine (about 9 oz), uncooked
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- To bring out the best flavors in the chicken, start by slicing your chicken breasts into thin strips. In a bowl, toss these strips with Cajun seasoning until they’re evenly coated.
- In a large deep skillet or a Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken strips and sear undisturbed for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Lower the heat to medium, add unsalted butter to the skillet, and let it melt. Then, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add smoked paprika and chili flakes, cooking for an additional 30 seconds.
- Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and heavy cream, stir well while scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the uncooked linguine to the simmering sauce, mostly submerged. Cover and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until fully melted, creating a creamy sauce.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing to heat through and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and sprinkle with grated Parmesan if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Always taste your dish as you cook; seasoning adjustments can make a world of difference. If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of more chicken broth or cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Protein: 40 g