Description
This Cajun Chicken Bites with Cheesy Alfredo Linguine recipe combines tender, spice-rubbed chicken bites with rich, creamy Alfredo sauce over perfectly cooked linguine pasta. Ideal for a comforting weeknight dinner, this dish balances flavorful Cajun seasoning with cheesy goodness, creating a satisfying meal for four.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Bites
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1-2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (to taste)
For the Linguine Alfredo
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 6 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- Salt, for pasta water
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Cook the chicken bites: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and sear until golden brown and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep warm.
- Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Make the Alfredo sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the cubed Velveeta cheese and stir continuously until it melts completely.
- Add remaining cheeses: Mix in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses. Adjust the sauce consistency by gradually adding the reserved pasta water until the sauce is creamy and coats the back of a spoon.
- Toss pasta in sauce: Add the drained linguine to the skillet and toss well to coat all the pasta evenly with the cheesy Alfredo sauce.
- Serve: Plate the coated linguine and top it with the Cajun chicken bites. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency—this starchy water helps thicken and smooth the Alfredo sauce.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
- You can substitute Velveeta with cream cheese or a combination of cream cheese and cheddar for a different cheesy texture.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning according to your spice preference.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk.
