Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun – Comfort

Stuffani Borjat

July 14, 2025

Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun featured image

Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun was born on a weeknight when money was tight and time was tighter. I needed a cozy fix a budget family dinner with chicken that still felt special. Cream, Cajun spice, and melty mozzarella turned a simple skillet into magic. For busy families craving low carb pasta meals or just soul-warming comfort, this one’s become our go-to ritual.

Easy Steps to Make Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun

This Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun saved dinner on a budget night. Quick, creamy, and packed with flavor it’s perfect for working parents, pasta lovers, and anyone craving gourmet recipes on a budget without the meal kit price.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

Ingredients for Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun

For the Chicken:

  • 1.25 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 pinch red pepper flakes

For the Pasta & Sauce:

  • 12 oz linguine pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 oz cream cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine until al dente, then drain and set aside. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water just in case you want to loosen the sauce later.
Boiling linguine in salted water for creamy Cajun pasta
  • Slice your chicken breasts thin and season them with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Seasoning sliced chicken with Cajun spices for linguine
  • Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high. Sear the seasoned chicken slices 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside.
Cajun chicken slices searing in skillet with butter and oil
  • In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes, sautéing just until golden and fragrant.
Sautéing garlic and red pepper flakes in melted butter
  • Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add heavy cream, then stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese. Whisk until the sauce is ultra creamy.
Melting mozzarella and cheeses into creamy garlic Cajun sauce
  • Toss in the cooked linguine and stir to coat in that rich Cajun garlic sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if it needs thinning. Plate with sliced chicken and garnish with chopped parsley.
Tossing linguine with creamy Cajun sauce and sliced chicken

And if you’re craving more creamy chicken-based comfort, don’t miss our Simple Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps or this flavor-loaded Cajun Steak Penne with Ranch Honey Cheese Sauce.

What Makes This Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun So Irresistible

Rich, cheesy comfort in every twirl

Best Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Recipe:

  • Cajun-spiced chicken adds bold flavor
  • Garlic butter sauce clings to every noodle
  • Pasta that feels like gourmet on a budget, not leftovers
  • Perfect for weeknight dinner recipes for working parents

Fast, full-flavor comfort without the stress

Best Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Recipe:

  • No oven, no baking just skillet and stove
  • Ready in under 30 minutes (meal planning recipes under 30 minutes approved)
  • One pan makes cleanup easy
  • Pairs well with roasted broccoli or even Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders for hearty meal prep

When I first made this, I didn’t think it would stick. But my husband asked for seconds. Then thirds. That’s when I knew this was one of those recipes. A little spicy. A lot cheesy. And something everyone wanted again.

Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Variations and Custom Ideas

Quick swaps with whatever’s in your kitchen

Best Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Recipe:

  • No mozzarella? Sub in provolone, fontina, or white cheddar
  • Out of linguine? Fettuccine or rotini holds up beautifully
  • No cream? Use evaporated milk or Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce
  • Still better than most keto meal delivery kits and cheaper too
  • Totally belongs in your budget family meals rotation

Simple ways to make it your own

Best Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Recipe:

  • Want heat? Extra Cajun, red pepper, or a dash of hot sauce does it
  • Add spinach or kale for something green
  • Mix in sundried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a flavor boost
  • Or plate it with Comforting Bacon Onion Tomato Pie for a Southern-style dinner
  • It fits every meal plan for busy moms easy, fast, and picky-eater approved

Serving and Storing Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun

How to serve it best

Best Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Recipe:

  • Serve hot in a big bowl, garnished with parsley
  • Plate it with garlic bread or roasted green beans
  • Add extra Cajun spice for the heat lovers at the table
  • Pair with Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with a Ranch Twist for a spicy dinner night

How to store it right

Best Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Recipe:

  • Let cool completely before storing to keep the sauce smooth
  • Use an airtight container; refrigerate up to 3 days
  • Another reason why it’s a top pick among our budget family meals
  • Add a side like Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole to stretch leftovers into another dinner

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Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun

  1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

    Yes. Cook everything, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.

  2. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

    For a lighter option, try whole milk, evaporated milk, or even plain Greek yogurt. Just whisk it in slowly to prevent curdling.

  3. How can I make the dish spicier?

    Easy! Add more Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce. You can even stir in spicy sausage for extra heat.

  4. Does it matter what kind of Parmesan I use?

    Freshly grated works best for melting. Pre-shredded can make the sauce grainy. If that’s all you have, melt it slowly and stir constantly.

  5. Can I swap the cream for something lighter?

    Yes. Try half-and-half or low-fat cream cheese for a slightly lighter but still rich finish.

Conclusion: Comfort Food You Can Count On

This Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun started as a last-minute dinner but turned into a family favorite. It’s cozy, cheesy, and wildly satisfying everything I needed in a budget family dinner with chicken. Perfect for meal planning recipes under 30 minutes, but fancy enough to serve guests.

If you’ve got chicken, pasta, and 30 minutes, you’ve got dinner that hits every time.

Print
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Tossing linguine with creamy Cajun sauce and sliced chicken

Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun

  • Author: Stuffani Borjat
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun is a fast, flavor-packed dinner with juicy Cajun chicken, rich garlic cream sauce, and melty mozzarella. It’s a budget-friendly comfort food your family will request again and again.


Ingredients

1.25 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts

12 oz linguine pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 pinch red pepper flakes

1 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon black pepper

6 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup chicken broth

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

2 oz cream cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)


Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine until al dente, then drain and set aside. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water just in case you want to loosen the sauce later.

2. Season the chicken slices with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 5–7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

5. Stir in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until combined. Add mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

6. Add the cooked linguine into the skillet and toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water if needed to loosen sauce.

7. Slice the chicken and serve it over the pasta. Garnish with chopped parsley and enjoy hot.


Notes

Sub Greek yogurt or evaporated milk for a lighter cream base.

Add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of broth.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 610
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 680mg
  • Fat: 35g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 37g
  • Cholesterol: 135mg

Keywords: creamy chicken pasta, garlic Cajun linguine, mozzarella chicken, one pan chicken pasta

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