Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

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Craving a meal that hits that perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and comforting? Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is the bold, cheesy pasta dish that delivers every single time. It wraps together the soul of Southern Cajun seasoning with rich, garlicky cheese sauce and golden-seared chicken breast. Every bite promises a deep, velvety richness with just the right heat.

This isn’t your average weeknight pasta. The magic lies in the savory sear on the chicken, the decadent sauce with stretchy mozzarella, and the tender linguine that soaks it all in. Whether you’re cooking to impress or feeding the family something unforgettable, this dish brings restaurant-level indulgence straight to your kitchen.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the flavors, make sure your kitchen is armed and ready. Here are the tools that make this recipe work:

1. Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy-Bottomed Pan: For searing the chicken to golden perfection. You need a pan that distributes heat evenly to create that flavor-packed crust.

2. Large Saucepan: Ideal for boiling the linguine to al dente. A deep pan helps avoid overcrowding and sticky pasta.

3. Whisk: Essential when making the cheese sauce. It ensures smooth, lump-free results.

4. Garlic Press (Optional): This tool will give you finely minced garlic in seconds and deepen the sauce’s flavor.

5. Tongs: To easily flip the chicken without piercing it and losing juices. Also great for tossing the pasta in sauce.

6. Grater: If you’re using block mozzarella or Parmesan, a good grater is your best friend for fresh, melty cheese.

Having these tools within arm’s reach helps streamline the process and keeps the focus on layering bold flavors seamlessly.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Let’s take a closer look at what goes into this flavor-packed pasta dish:

Chicken Breasts
Boneless and skinless, they sear beautifully and soak in the Cajun spices.

Linguine Pasta
Long, flat noodles that hold the creamy sauce well. Linguine creates that perfect texture balance.

Mozzarella Cheese
Gives the sauce its signature stretch and mild creaminess. Melts beautifully into the garlic base.

Heavy Cream
Provides a rich, velvety backdrop for the sauce that complements both the cheese and Cajun spices.

Fresh Garlic
The soul of the sauce. It infuses the entire dish with an aromatic depth.

Butter
Used to sauté the garlic and add silkiness to the sauce.

Olive Oil
For searing the chicken and keeping it juicy with a flavorful crust.

Cajun Seasoning
The bold and spicy foundation of this dish. It brings smoky heat and complexity.

Parmesan Cheese
Adds a salty, nutty edge to the sauce and helps it thicken.

Salt & Black Pepper
Essential for balancing the heat and bringing out the natural flavors.

Fresh Parsley (optional)
For a touch of green and a fresh finish on top.

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How To Make the Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry, then coat both sides generously with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from pan and let rest.

Step 2: Boil the Linguine

In a large saucepan, bring salted water to a boil. Cook linguine until just al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce the heat to medium. Melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and whisk to combine. Slowly add shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, whisking until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Slice the Chicken

Once the chicken has rested, slice it into thick, juicy strips. Set aside while the sauce comes together.

Step 5: Combine and Toss

Add cooked linguine to the skillet with the sauce. Use tongs to gently toss until pasta is fully coated. Add the chicken slices on top, spooning some extra sauce over if needed.

Step 6: Serve with Garnish

Top with freshly chopped parsley and cracked black pepper. Serve hot and enjoy that luscious cheese pull with every forkful.

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How to Serve and Store Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

To serve this dish at its peak, plate it while the sauce is hot and gooey. A generous tangle of linguine on each plate, crowned with juicy Cajun chicken strips and a final drizzle of sauce. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or even a dash of extra Cajun seasoning can dial up presentation and taste.

This pasta is best eaten fresh, but leftovers hold up well too. To store, let the dish cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For reheating, use the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

Avoid freezing, as the cheese sauce may separate and become grainy after thawing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best pasta substitute if I don’t have linguine?

Fettuccine or spaghetti work well, but for more sauce cling, try tagliatelle or even penne.

Can I make it less spicy?

Absolutely. Either use less Cajun seasoning or pick a mild version. You can also balance it out with more cream or cheese.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

You can use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free mozzarella and Parmesan alternatives, but the texture will be a bit different.

How do I prevent the cheese from clumping in the sauce?

Add the cheese slowly over low heat and whisk constantly. Using freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded helps prevent clumping.

Can I prep the chicken in advance?

Yes! You can cook and slice the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the fridge and warm it gently before adding to the pasta.

What can I serve with this dish?

A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables pair perfectly. You might also enjoy garlic bread to soak up every bit of that dreamy sauce.

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Want More Creamy Chicken Pasta Ideas?

You might also love the Easy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli, which blends spice and greens in a creamy sauce. Or explore the richness of Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti, a baked pasta that balances tang and creaminess effortlessly.

Another worthy pick: Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe offers a fiery twist layered with cheese and noodles. And if you’re after even more sauce and comfort, the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta leans hearty with big flavors. For something more classic, the Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup also brings a similar cozy richness in a bowl.

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Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this creamy Cajun chicken linguine to your dinner boards for easy access. Just tap the Pin button and it’s yours.

When you try it, I’d love to know how it turned out for you. Did you go heavier on the mozzarella? Add extra garlic? Drop your twists in the comments below.

For more creamy weeknight wonders and cheesy pasta magic, follow along on my Pinterest board LadyPlate.

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