If you crave bold flavors and silky pasta in one memorable meal, get ready to meet your new obsession: Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce – Irresistibly Delicious Dinner Recipe! This dish takes the crispy-tender magic of Cajun-spiced chicken and tosses it with ribbons of linguine, all enrobed in a dreamy, garlicky mozzarella sauce. It comes together in just over half an hour, making it perfect for weeknight feasts or cozy weekend dinners. Each forkful is rich, creamy, and spiked with just the right amount of Cajun flair—sure to have everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is all about simple, powerhouse ingredients that each play a starring role. From the aromatic garlic to the gooey cheese, every component brings something special to the table. Gather these essentials, and you’re already halfway to pasta perfection:
- Linguine pasta (12 ounces): Choose linguine for its perfect surface area, which holds all that luscious sauce beautifully.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts (2, sliced): Lean protein that soaks up all the Cajun flavors and browns beautifully in the pan.
- Cajun seasoning (1 tablespoon): The flavor-packed star of the show, lending heat, depth, and irresistible color.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For sautéing the chicken until golden—use a good-quality oil for best results.
- Garlic, minced (4 cloves): The aromatic backbone of the sauce, adding depth and a signature kick.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Creates a rich, silky sauce when combined with the flour and dairy.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): This helps thicken the sauce to that perfect, dreamy consistency.
- Whole milk (2 cups): The base for your cream sauce—rich and flavorful without being heavy.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): For extra decadence and creaminess, making the sauce truly indulgent.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 1/2 cups): Melts down for that signature, stretchy, garlicky mozzarella sauce.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Adds a salty, nutty finish that punches up the overall flavor.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Just the right amount to balance and amplify the other flavors.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): For warmth and a subtle kick in the sauce.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Gives an extra smokiness, color, and complexity to the finished dish.
- Chopped fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, for garnish): The finishing touch for freshness and a pop of vibrant green.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce – Irresistibly Delicious Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Linguine
Set a large pot of salted water to boil and cook the linguine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once perfectly tender yet firm, drain and set aside. Don’t forget to reserve a splash of that starchy pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later—it’s liquid gold for pasta dishes like Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce – Irresistibly Delicious Dinner Recipe.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken
While the pasta is bubbling away, slice your chicken breasts into even strips and toss with Cajun seasoning until every piece is thoroughly coated. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Add the chicken strips in an even layer and cook for 5–6 minutes, flipping once, until they’re richly browned and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and tent loosely with foil to keep warm.
Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Base
In the same skillet that held the chicken, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Stir in minced garlic and let it sizzle for about a minute until deeply fragrant—your kitchen should smell irresistible right about now! Add the flour and whisk constantly, cooking for another minute to eliminate any raw flour taste.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Mozzarella Sauce
Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly so the mixture stays smooth and lump-free. Allow it to simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken. Sprinkle in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and stir until the cheeses melt completely, transforming the sauce into pure, cheesy silk. Season with salt, plenty of cracked black pepper, and smoked paprika if you want a touch more smoky depth.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing gently to coat every strip with that rich, molten mozzarella sauce. Add the drained linguine, using tongs to twirl and toss until every strand is cloaked in sauce and speckled with Cajun-kissed chicken. If the sauce is especially thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until it reaches your perfect consistency. The finishing touch for your Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce – Irresistibly Delicious Dinner Recipe is a sprinkle of chopped parsley for fresh contrast.
How to Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce – Irresistibly Delicious Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
A final flourish of freshly chopped parsley adds color and a subtle fresh note that balances the richness of the sauce. For extra pizzazz, try a sprinkle of extra Parmesan, a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier bite, or even a squeeze of fresh lemon to brighten everything up.
Side Dishes
This show-stopping pasta pairs wonderfully with crusty garlic bread, a fresh green salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. These simple sides help lighten the meal and make Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce – Irresistibly Delicious Dinner Recipe feel like a true restaurant-worthy spread at home.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving guests, try twirling individual portions into high pasta “nests” using tongs, then tuck generous slices of chicken right on top. For a finishing touch, drizzle a little extra sauce around the plate, sprinkle with parsley and Parmesan, and serve immediately for an elegant, mouthwatering presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—though the flavors of the Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce – Irresistibly Delicious Dinner Recipe tend to get even better overnight!
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, though the dairy-based sauce may separate slightly during freezing. If you choose to freeze, pack cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and use within one month for best flavor and texture. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For best results, reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to its silky, luscious self. Avoid high heat, which can cause the mozzarella sauce to become grainy. Stir frequently and add a little extra seasonings, if desired, to wake up the flavors.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap the regular linguine for your favorite gluten-free pasta and use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in the sauce. The Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce – Irresistibly Delicious Dinner Recipe turns out just as decadent and delicious.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
No worries! You can mix your own using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, oregano, and a dash of salt. Play with the proportions to suit your taste and add as much heat as you like for the ultimate homemade spice blend.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
It sure is! Swap out the chicken for sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers. These veggies soak up the creamy sauce and provide a savory, hearty texture—making this a truly versatile dinner option for everyone at the table.
Can I use a different cheese in the sauce?
Certainly! While mozzarella is super melty and mild, you can try fontina or provolone for a similar effect, or even a sharp white cheddar for more tang. Just remember, the creamier the cheese, the smoother your sauce for the Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce – Irresistibly Delicious Dinner Recipe.
What protein substitutions work well?
Shrimp is a classic option and cooks in just a couple of minutes—perfect for quick dinners. Diced turkey or even tofu are excellent as well. Each brings its own flair to the dish without compromising that irresistible Cajun flavor and creamy sauce.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to shake up your pasta night routine, give Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce – Irresistibly Delicious Dinner Recipe a try. It’s quick, flavorful, and sure to become your new go-to when the craving for something comforting with a spicy kick hits. Dive in and don’t forget to share—it’s just too good to keep to yourself!
Print
Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce – Irresistibly Delicious Dinner Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Cajun
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a tantalizing dinner with this Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine. Tender linguine pasta is tossed with Cajun-spiced chicken strips in a velvety garlic mozzarella sauce. This dish is a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients
Linguine Pasta:
- 12 ounces linguine pasta
Cajun Chicken:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Garlic Mozzarella Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Linguine: Prepare linguine according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Cajun Chicken: Season chicken with Cajun seasoning and cook in olive oil until browned. Set aside.
- Garlic Mozzarella Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté garlic in butter, add flour, then gradually whisk in milk and cream. Simmer until thickened. Stir in cheeses until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Combine: Return chicken to the skillet, add linguine, and toss to combine. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Notes
- For added heat, increase Cajun seasoning or add red pepper flakes.
- Substitute chicken with shrimp or opt for a vegetarian version with sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 630
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0.4g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
