If you’re craving a dinner that’s rich, spicy, and irresistibly creamy, this Cajun Chicken Bites over Cheesy Alfredo Linguine recipe will hit every note. It combines tender, golden-seared chicken pieces coated in bold Cajun spices with a luxurious, cheesy Alfredo sauce over silky linguine.
This dish balances the heat of Cajun seasoning with the comforting creaminess of Alfredo, creating a restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to make at home. Perfect for weeknight indulgence or a special dinner, it’s a flavorful fusion that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Serves 4–6
For the Cajun Chicken Bites
- 1½ pounds (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheesy Alfredo Linguine
- 12 ounces (340g) linguine pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups (360ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup (60g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the linguine according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
- In a mixing bowl, toss chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute.
- Pour in heavy cream and stir until it begins to simmer gently.
- Add Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy.
- If the sauce is too thick, thin it with a bit of reserved pasta water.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Toss the cooked linguine into the Alfredo sauce until evenly coated.
- Top with Cajun chicken bites and garnish with chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Serving Suggestions
- Add a side of garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls to soak up extra sauce.
- Pair with a crisp Caesar salad for freshness and balance.
- For a spicy kick, sprinkle extra Cajun seasoning or a few chili flakes on top.
- Serve with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 plate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 620 |
| Protein | 42 grams |
| Total Fat | 28 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 14 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 48 grams |
| Sugars | 3 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 780 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- High in protein thanks to lean chicken breast.
- Cajun seasoning boosts flavor without excess fat.
- Alfredo sauce adds calcium and creamy richness, though you can lighten it with half-and-half or low-fat milk.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother, more flavorful sauce.
- Don’t overcook the chicken — it should be juicy and tender, not dry.
- Add a handful of spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for color and nutrients.
- For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt and reduce cheese by half.
Variations to Try
- Seafood Cajun Alfredo: Substitute chicken with shrimp or scallops.
- Spicy Twist: Add a splash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for more heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers.
This Cajun Chicken Bites over Cheesy Alfredo Linguine is a perfect marriage of spice and creaminess. It’s hearty, flavorful, and satisfying — ideal for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal.
Whether you’re serving it for family, friends, or date night, each bite delivers a comforting balance of heat, richness, and savory perfection. Once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become one of your go-to pasta dishes.