Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter

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I can still remember the first time I made this Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter—it was one of those last-minute dinner ideas that turned into a recipe worth repeating. The kind of meal where you take your first bite, close your eyes, and go “Whoa.” The richness of the cream, the kick from the Cajun seasoning, the mozzarella pulling all the flavors together—it’s magic on a plate. It has all the comfort of an easy dinner but brings restaurant-level flavor to your kitchen table.

What makes this dish special to me is how it balances the heat of Cajun spices with the smooth, melty embrace of mozzarella. The linguine catches all that creamy, garlicky sauce like a net, and the chicken? Golden-crusted, juicy, and absolutely packed with bold flavor. If you’re into food that’s both indulgent and soul-hugging, you’ll understand why I’m completely obsessed with this one.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter

This dish checks all the boxes: it’s comforting, spicy, cheesy, creamy, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or treating yourself to something spectacular, it feels like a celebration on a weeknight. The pasta twirls through the sauce like it was made for it, and the juicy seared chicken keeps the whole thing hearty. It’s perfect for quick dinners, special occasions, or when you’re just craving something bold and rich.

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What Type of Chicken Works Best for Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter?

I always go with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this dish—they’re juicy, flavorful, and hold up beautifully when seared in that hot skillet. Thighs soak in the Cajun butter like sponges, creating bite after bite of bold, smoky flavor. But if you’re more of a chicken breast fan, that works too—just be sure to butterfly or pound them to an even thickness so they cook evenly and stay moist.

The key is to season the chicken well and sear it until you get that deep golden crust. It’s that contrast between the juicy inside and the charred, spicy outside that really takes this dish to the next level.

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Options for Substitutions

Want to tweak this recipe? It’s super flexible. Here are a few easy swaps to fit your pantry or dietary needs:

• Chicken → Swap for shrimp or sliced andouille sausage for a Southern twist.
• Linguine → Fettuccine, penne, or even zucchini noodles if you want to go low-carb.
• Mozzarella → Try provolone or Monterey Jack for a similar melt and mild flavor.
• Heavy cream → Half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk (for a dairy-free option).
• Cajun seasoning → Use Creole seasoning or mix paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, and oregano for a homemade version.
• Butter → Olive oil or ghee if you’re avoiding dairy, but butter really does make the sauce sing.

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Ingredients for Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter

Chicken thighs
These bring deep flavor and stay incredibly juicy, even after searing. They hold up beautifully against the bold Cajun seasoning.

Cajun seasoning
Adds that smoky, spicy kick. It’s the heart of this dish’s bold personality.

Garlic cloves
Fresh garlic builds the flavor base for the butter sauce—it’s aromatic, sharp, and irresistible when sautéed.

Butter
Creates the rich, silky foundation for the sauce and helps carry the Cajun spices throughout the dish.

Heavy cream
Thickens the sauce and balances out the spice with its luxurious, velvety texture.

Mozzarella cheese
Melted into the sauce, it adds gooeyness and richness without overpowering the dish.

Parmesan cheese
Adds depth and a salty umami note that rounds out the sauce beautifully.

Linguine
Perfect for catching all that luscious sauce with every twirl. Its flat shape holds the creaminess just right.

Olive oil
Used for searing the chicken to golden perfection.

Salt & pepper
Essential for enhancing all the other flavors—don’t skip these basics!

Fresh parsley
Chopped and sprinkled on top for freshness, color, and a clean contrast to the creamy richness.

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Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken thighs dry, then generously coat them in Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked through—about 6–7 minutes per side. Once done, transfer them to a plate and let them rest.

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Step 2: Cook the Linguine

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining.

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Step 3: Make the Garlic Cajun Butter Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, lower the heat to medium. Add butter and garlic, letting it sizzle for a minute until fragrant. Sprinkle in a bit more Cajun seasoning, then pour in the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently for a few minutes.

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Step 4: Add the Cheeses

Stir in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, letting them melt into the sauce. Stir until smooth and creamy. If the sauce gets too thick, splash in a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

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Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss it well to coat every strand in the creamy sauce. Let it simmer together for a minute or two so the flavors meld.

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Step 6: Slice and Finish

Slice the rested chicken into strips and place it over the sauced linguine. Spoon extra sauce on top if you like things extra creamy. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

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How Long to Cook Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter

This recipe comes together in about 35 minutes total. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Chicken: 12–15 minutes for searing and cooking through.
• Pasta: 8–10 minutes to cook while the chicken sears.
• Sauce: About 10 minutes, including melting the cheeses and blending everything together.

It’s fast enough for a weeknight dinner, but fancy enough to impress guests.

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Tips for Perfect Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter

• Use room-temperature chicken for even cooking and a better sear.
• Don’t skimp on the seasoning—the Cajun blend is what gives this dish its signature bold flavor.
• Let the chicken rest before slicing. This keeps it juicy and flavorful.
• Reserve pasta water—it’s a secret weapon for thinning the sauce without losing richness.
• Grate your cheese fresh instead of using pre-shredded. It melts more smoothly and tastes better.
• Stir the sauce constantly after adding the cheese to avoid clumps or burning.
• Taste and adjust at the end. A little extra salt, Cajun seasoning, or a splash of lemon juice can fine-tune the final flavor.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the chicken
  It’s easy to dry out chicken thighs if left too long in the pan. Sear them just until they’re cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
• Adding cheese to boiling sauce
  Too much heat can cause mozzarella to become stringy. Lower the heat when adding the cheese and stir gently until melted.
• Forgetting to salt the pasta water
  This is your only chance to season the pasta itself—don’t skip it.
• Using too much Cajun seasoning
  It’s flavorful, but powerful. Start with less, then taste and build the heat to your liking.
• Skipping the pasta water
  This silky liquid is essential to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the noodles perfectly.
• Not resting the chicken before slicing
  Resting locks in the juices—slice too soon and you lose moisture and flavor.

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What to Serve With Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter?

Garlic Bread

Classic and essential. Use it to mop up every last bit of that creamy Cajun sauce.

Light Arugula or Mixed Greens Salad

The peppery bite of arugula cuts through the richness of the dish and adds a fresh contrast.

Roasted Broccoli or Asparagus

These vegetables roast up crispy and caramelized—great for adding a bit of crunch and color.

A Glass of White Wine

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the cream and spice.

Lemon Wedges

A squeeze of lemon over the top brightens up the entire plate.

Cherry Tomatoes Tossed in Balsamic

Sweet, tangy, and juicy—these add a pop of acidity and color.

Extra Parmesan on the Side

Because who doesn’t want an extra sprinkle?

Crusty Baguette or Ciabatta

More bread, more joy. Especially when it soaks in the sauce.

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Storage Instructions

Leftovers of this Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter hold up surprisingly well. Store everything in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to bring the sauce back to life—do it gently over medium-low heat to avoid separating the cheese.

If you want to freeze it, go ahead—but skip adding the pasta. Freeze the chicken and sauce in a separate container for up to 2 months. When ready, cook fresh pasta, reheat the sauce slowly, and combine just before serving for best texture.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)

• Calories: ~740
• Protein: 42g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fat: 42g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17g
• Trans Fat: 0.3g
• Cholesterol: 180mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Serving Size: About 1 ½ cups

These numbers are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and substitutions used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can easily make your own! Mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Adjust the cayenne to control the heat.

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Can I make this dish less spicy?

Absolutely. Use a mild Cajun seasoning or reduce the amount altogether. You can even add a splash of cream or extra mozzarella to mellow out the heat.

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Is it okay to use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but make sure to pound them to an even thickness so they cook evenly and don’t dry out. Thighs give more flavor and tenderness, but breasts are a leaner option.

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Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can prep the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Store them separately, and cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve for the best texture.

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What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Low and slow! Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat with a splash of milk or pasta water. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may separate the sauce.

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Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes—swap the butter for olive oil, use coconut milk in place of cream, and a vegan cheese alternative that melts well. The flavor will shift slightly but still be delicious.

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Does this recipe work with gluten-free pasta?

Totally. Use your favorite gluten-free pasta—just be cautious not to overcook it, as some gluten-free options can get mushy.

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How can I add more vegetables to this?

Try tossing in sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or mushrooms. They blend well into the creamy sauce and boost the nutrition and texture.

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Conclusion

Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter is one of those dishes that feels like a treat but is simple enough for a midweek dinner. It’s the kind of meal that satisfies every craving—creamy, spicy, cheesy, and hearty. Whether you’re cooking for guests or just looking to spoil yourself, this dish always delivers bold flavor and serious comfort. Once you’ve made it once, it just might become a regular in your kitchen.

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