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Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce


  • Author: Emily Wilkinson
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Ingredients

Scale

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-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!

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: 750
  • Sodium: 790
  • Protein: 40