This Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is one of those dinners that just works. It’s rich, cheesy, garlicky, and has the perfect kick of heat. The kind of meal that pulls everyone to the table before you’ve even finished plating.
The first time I made it? Total fridge dive. I had chicken, mozzarella, and half a box of pasta. Thirty minutes later, magic. Creamy, spicy, comforting, and gone in minutes.
Now it’s a staple. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or I just need a serious comfort fix, this is the pasta I come back to. It tastes indulgent, feels special, and still comes together with minimal effort.
Essential Elements and Equipment
To make this recipe successful, you’ll need just a few tools:
- A large skillet or sauté pan: Preferably nonstick or cast iron, to sear the chicken and build the sauce.
- A large pot: For cooking the linguine (don’t forget to salt the water).
- Whisk: Essential for creating a smooth roux and creamy sauce.
- Tongs or a large spoon: For tossing the pasta with the sauce evenly.
- Oven-safe dish (optional): If you want to broil the top for that bubbly cheese finish.
If you’ve got these basics, you’re set for a seriously satisfying pasta night.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Once you make this pasta, you’ll get why it’s on repeat in my kitchen. Here’s what makes it so crave-worthy:
- Totally flexible: No linguine? Use penne. Don’t feel like cooking chicken? Grab a rotisserie one. Want to sneak in some spinach or peppers? Go for it. This recipe is super forgiving.
- That flavor though: The Cajun spices bring a warm, smoky kick that hits just right. Then you’ve got the garlic, the cream, the melty mozzarella… every bite is rich, cozy, and loaded with flavor.
- Weeknight easy: It might look like something you’d order at a restaurant, but it’s actually super simple. You’ll have it on the table in about 30 minutes, and most of the ingredients are probably already in your pantry.
- The ultimate comfort meal: This is one of those dinners that just feels good. Creamy sauce, cheesy pasta, juicy chicken… It’s basically a hug in a bowl.
- Even picky eaters go for it: You can adjust the spice level, and the cheesy pasta vibe makes it really approachable, even for the kids. Think mac and cheese meets Alfredo, but with a little Cajun twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this dish to life. You might already have most of it on hand!
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 pound linguine pasta
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for extra heat
Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1: Season the Chicken
In a bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika until evenly coated. Set aside.
Step 2: Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine until al dente, then drain and set aside. Save about ½ cup of the pasta water for later.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes, until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Start the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for about 1 minute, then stir in the flour and cook for another 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
Step 5: Build the Sauce
Slowly whisk in the milk and chicken broth. Let it simmer, then stir in the cream cheese until melted. Add 1½ cups of mozzarella and all the Parmesan. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add the pasta and chicken to the skillet. Toss until coated in the creamy sauce and everything is heated through.
Step 7: Optional Broil
For a cheesy top, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with remaining mozzarella, and broil for 2–3 minutes.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot, garnished with parsley if you like. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor!
Variations
One of the things I absolutely love about this recipe is how easily it adapts to what you have in the pantry or to your family’s tastes. Whether you’re trying to make it a bit healthier, want to accommodate dietary restrictions, or just enjoy putting your own spin on things, here are some delicious ideas:
- Swap the Protein: Don’t have chicken on hand? Try using shrimp, turkey, or even leftover rotisserie chicken. Shrimp gives it a coastal Southern flair, while turkey keeps it lean and hearty.
- Make It Vegetarian: Skip the meat and bulk it up with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers. You can also add zucchini or broccoli to add nutrients without sacrificing flavor.
- Go Gluten-Free: Just use your favorite gluten-free linguine or pasta. And for thickening the sauce, opt for gluten-free all-purpose flour or a cornstarch slurry.
- Lighter Sauce Option:
- Use reduced-fat cream cheese and milk, or substitute half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Keep in mind the sauce won’t be quite as rich, but it will still be creamy and satisfying.
- Spice It Up: Want more heat? Add extra red pepper flakes or even a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce. You can also use spicy Cajun seasoning for an extra punch.
- Cheese Lovers Unite: While mozzarella and Parmesan are the base, feel free to mix in other cheeses like provolone, white cheddar, or even a touch of smoked gouda for a twist.
How to Serve
This creamy Cajun pasta is a meal all on its own, but there are ways to round it out that make it even more satisfying or elegant for guests.
- Garlic Bread or Crusty Rolls: A no-brainer! That sauce is so good you’ll want something to mop it up with. A warm slice of garlic bread or a crusty roll works perfectly.
- Simple Side Salad: Balance the richness of the pasta with something light and crisp. A fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or balsamic glaze adds a refreshing contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables:
- Serve it with oven-roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts to add color and nutrients. You can even toss the veggies in Cajun seasoning to tie the flavors together.
Presentation Tip:
Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of parsley, a crack of fresh black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. It’s simple, elegant, and takes the visual appeal up a notch.
Recipe Tips
To get that perfect balance of flavor and texture, here are a few helpful tips to keep in mind:
- Use room temperature cream cheese so it melts easily into the sauce and avoids clumping.
- Don’t overcook the pasta. Al dente is best, especially since it will sit in the hot sauce for a few minutes before serving.
- Taste your Cajun seasoning. Some brands are saltier or spicier than others, so start with less and adjust to your liking.
- Reserve pasta water in case your sauce needs thinning at the end. It helps the sauce coat the pasta without losing creaminess.
- Broil with care. If you choose to broil the top for that bubbly finish, watch it closely; it can go from golden to burnt quickly.
Cooking Note
Here are a few technical tips to make sure everything goes smoothly:
- Don’t rush the roux. Give the butter and flour a minute to cook before adding liquid, it removes that raw flour taste.
- Use freshly grated cheese. It melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
- Keep the heat low when adding the cream cheese and mozzarella so they melt evenly into a smooth sauce.
- If reheating leftovers, add a splash of milk or broth to revive the sauce without drying it out.
- Stir frequently when cooking the sauce to prevent sticking or burning at the bottom of the pan.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)
- Calories: 750
- Protein: 40g
- Sodium: 790mg
Note: Nutrition will vary based on brands and portions used.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the entire recipe up until the broiling step. Let it cool slightly, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Finish with the broiling step for fresh bubbly cheese.
2. What’s the best pasta to use if I don’t have linguine?
Great question! You can substitute fettuccine, penne, bowtie, or even rotini. Just make sure to cook the pasta to al dente so it doesn’t get too soft once it mixes with the sauce.
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, though creamy sauces can change slightly in texture after freezing. Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to one month. Reheat slowly on the stove with a splash of cream or broth and stir well to bring the sauce back to life.
Conclusion
If you’re craving a dinner that’s indulgent, comforting, and bursting with bold, creamy flavor, this Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is your answer. It’s got everything: tender spiced chicken, rich cheesy sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and enough garlic to make your kitchen smell like heaven.
I love how this dish brings people together. Whether it’s a low-key weeknight with the family or a laid-back dinner with friends, it never fails to impress. It’s also a wonderful way to play with spice and texture without getting overly complicated. From the kick of Cajun seasoning to the melty mozzarella and buttery garlic base, each bite is the kind that makes you want just one more forkful.
So go ahead, bookmark it, print it, share it, and most importantly, make it! If you do, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Leave a comment below with your tweaks or who you made it for. And if you’re hungry for more creamy, garlicky, saucy pasta dishes, be sure to check out the related recipes on my site. Your next favorite might be just one click away.
Until next time, keep stirring with love and seasoning with heart.
Print
Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 pound linguine pasta
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for extra heat
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
In a bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika until evenly coated. Set aside.
Step 2: Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine until al dente, then drain and set aside. Save about ½ cup of the pasta water for later.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes, until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Start the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for about 1 minute, then stir in the flour and cook for another 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
Step 5: Build the Sauce
Slowly whisk in the milk and chicken broth. Let it simmer, then stir in the cream cheese until melted. Add 1½ cups of mozzarella and all the Parmesan. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add the pasta and chicken to the skillet. Toss until coated in the creamy sauce and everything is heated through.
Step 7: Optional Broil
For a cheesy top, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with remaining mozzarella, and broil for 2–3 minutes.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot, garnished with parsley if you like. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 750
- Sodium: 790
- Protein: 40