Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

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Golden-seared Cajun chicken rests atop a bed of silky linguine, smothered in a rich garlic mozzarella sauce that stretches and melts with every forkful. This isn’t your ordinary pasta dish—it’s a flavor-packed experience that brings restaurant-quality indulgence to your own kitchen. The spicy, smoky rub on the chicken balances beautifully with the velvety, cheesy sauce that hugs each strand of linguine.

Whether you’re making dinner for your family or planning a cozy weekend date night in, Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is guaranteed to steal the show. The aroma alone—garlic sautéing in butter, cheese melting into cream, and Cajun spices sizzling—will have everyone asking when dinner’s ready.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

• A perfect flavor combo – Spicy Cajun seasoning meets creamy, garlicky mozzarella bliss.
• Comfort food done right – Rich, cheesy, and soul-warming—ideal for cozy nights.
• Easy enough for weeknights – Quick prep, big payoff.
• Customizable – Toss in mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers if you’d like.
• Restaurant-style at home – Save money without sacrificing flavor.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Their Importance)

Before diving into this indulgent dish, having the right tools will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

• Cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan: Perfect for searing the Cajun-seasoned chicken to develop that deep, flavorful crust. Cast iron retains heat evenly, giving your chicken that irresistible golden char.
• Large pot for pasta: You’ll need plenty of space to boil the linguine properly. Overcrowded pasta cooks unevenly and sticks together.
• Tongs or spatula: Essential for flipping the chicken without losing any of that precious crust.
• Fine grater: Ideal for shredding fresh mozzarella and grating garlic directly into the sauce for the most flavor.
• Whisk: Helps ensure a smooth, lump-free garlic mozzarella sauce.
• Colander: For draining the pasta—don’t forget to save a cup of pasta water to help emulsify the sauce.

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Preparation Tips

• Bring the chicken to room temperature before cooking—it’ll cook more evenly and stay juicier.
• Use freshly grated mozzarella, not pre-shredded, which contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
• Salt your pasta water well—it should taste like the sea. This is your only chance to season the pasta itself.
• Don’t overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer and aim for 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.
• Finish the pasta in the sauce—after draining, toss the pasta into the skillet with the sauce and let it simmer for a minute to absorb flavor.
• Use pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if it gets too thick.

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Ingredients for This Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this rich and savory dish to life. These amounts are perfect for 4 servings.

For the Cajun Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced in half horizontally for 4 thinner cutlets)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Linguine:

• 12 oz (340g) linguine pasta
• Salt, for the pasta water

For the Garlic Mozzarella Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (preferably freshly grated)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra kick)
• ¼ cup reserved pasta water (as needed to thin sauce)

Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Extra mozzarella or Parmesan (optional, for topping)

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Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create 4 thin cutlets. Pat them dry with paper towels. Rub both sides with olive oil, then generously season with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let them rest for 10–15 minutes while you prep other ingredients.

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Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add a bit more olive oil if needed, and sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temp 165°F / 74°C). Remove and let rest on a plate—cover loosely with foil to keep warm.

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Step 3: Cook the Linguine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve ¼ cup of pasta water. Then drain and set aside.

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Step 4: Make the Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken (leave in the brown bits for flavor), reduce heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently. Add the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, black pepper, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until smooth and melty.

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Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked linguine to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat well. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

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Step 6: Slice and Serve the Chicken

Slice the rested chicken into strips. Plate the creamy linguine and top with the Cajun chicken. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and extra cheese if desired.

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What to Serve With Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

This rich and creamy pasta dish pairs wonderfully with sides that either balance its richness or enhance the flavors with fresh or crisp textures. Here are some excellent serving suggestions to round out your meal:

8 Recommendations

1. Garlic Bread or Cheesy Toast

A classic combo. The crisp crunch of garlic bread complements the creamy sauce and gives you something to mop up every last bit of it.

2. Light Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and tangy Caesar dressing provide a fresh contrast to the heavy pasta.

3. Roasted Asparagus

Roasting brings out the natural sweetness in asparagus, and its earthy flavor cuts through the richness of the dish.

4. Steamed Broccoli with Lemon

Bright, clean, and just the right amount of bitterness to balance the creamy mozzarella sauce.

5. Caprese Salad

Tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offer a light and refreshing starter that still feels indulgent.

6. Grilled Corn on the Cob

With a touch of butter and Cajun seasoning, grilled corn adds a smoky-sweet crunch that echoes the flavors of the dish.

7. Chilled Sparkling Water with Lemon

Sometimes, the best pairing is a refreshing beverage to cleanse the palate between creamy bites.

8. A Glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio

If you’re going with wine, pick something crisp and slightly acidic to complement the cheese and cut the richness.

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Storage Instructions

Fridge:
Store any leftover Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. The sauce may thicken as it sits, so when reheating, add a splash of milk, cream, or pasta water to bring it back to its silky consistency.

Freezer:
While possible, freezing isn’t ideal due to the creamy sauce, which may separate upon thawing. If you do choose to freeze it, store in individual portions and reheat gently with added liquid while stirring frequently.

Reheating Tips:
Reheat over medium-low heat on the stovetop or microwave in short bursts, stirring between each interval to ensure even heating. Avoid high heat, which can cause the cheese sauce to break.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 720 kcal
• Protein: 42g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Sugars: 3g
• Fiber: 3g
• Total Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 165mg
• Sodium: 620mg

Nutrition values are estimates and can vary based on exact ingredients used and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of linguine?

Absolutely! Fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne all work well. Just pick a pasta that can hold onto the creamy sauce.

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2. Is there a way to make this dish less spicy?

Yes—reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or choose a mild blend. You can also skip the red pepper flakes in the sauce.

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3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Definitely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a flavorful alternative and stay juicy even after searing.

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4. How can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free linguine and ensure your Cajun seasoning is certified gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

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5. What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream cheese, though the sauce may be slightly thinner.

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6. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

It’s best made fresh, but you can prep it a few hours ahead and reheat gently over low heat, stirring often to avoid separation.

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7. Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, but consider reducing the spice level if cooking for younger eaters. The creamy sauce usually wins them over.

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8. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers would all be delicious additions.

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Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is one of those recipes that effortlessly turns a simple dinner into something unforgettable. It brings together bold spice, creamy indulgence, and satisfying textures in every bite. Whether you’re cooking to impress or simply indulging in your own comfort food cravings, this dish delivers.

It’s rich without being overwhelming, elegant yet simple enough for a weekday dinner. And once you try it, you’ll want to keep it in regular rotation.

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