Cheesy Cajun Alfredo Pasta (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Pasta

01 - 1 pound linguine pasta
02 - Kosher salt to taste
03 - 1 tablespoon olive oil (for tossing pasta)

→ Chicken

04 - 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
05 - 1.5 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
06 - 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
07 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)

→ Sauce

08 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
09 - 2 cups heavy whipping cream
10 - 4 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
11 - 4 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
12 - 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
13 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
14 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Garnish

15 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

# Instructions:

01 - Boil linguine in salted water until al dente. Drain and toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil to prevent sticking.
02 - Slice chicken breasts into thin cutlets, pat dry, and evenly coat with Cajun seasoning.
03 - Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken cutlets 5-6 minutes per side until cooked through. Remove and rest before slicing.
04 - Lower heat to medium. Add remaining 1 tablespoon butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
05 - Pour in heavy cream and stir. Add Velveeta cheese cubes and whisk until melted and smooth. Incorporate shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, stirring until fully combined.
06 - Add smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Taste and adjust Cajun seasoning as desired.
07 - Add drained linguine to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat in the creamy sauce.
08 - Top each portion with sliced Cajun chicken and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately for optimal flavor and texture.

# Notes:

01 - Dry chicken thoroughly before seasoning for a better sear.
02 - Cut Velveeta into small cubes to achieve smooth melting.
03 - Adjust Cajun seasoning to match your preferred spice level.
04 - Pair with a Caesar salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.