Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
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

Step 1: Boil the pasta
Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook until just al dente about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside. Save 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Slice and season the chicken
Thinly slice chicken breasts. Season with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat every piece.

Step 3: Sear the chicken
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Sear 5–6 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté garlic and build the sauce
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of the remaining butter. Add the minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Sauté over low heat until golden and fragrant, about 30–60 seconds.

Step 5: Make the creamy Cajun sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a soft simmer. Stir in the heavy cream, then add mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese. Whisk slowly until the sauce turns glossy and dreamy.

Step 6: Bring it all together
Add the drained linguine to the skillet. Gently toss with tongs until all the pasta is coated in sauce. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water if the sauce needs loosening.Top with the sliced chicken and sprinkle with chopped parsley.


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