Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is a flavor-packed pasta dish that perfectly balances bold Cajun seasoning and a rich, creamy garlic mozzarella sauce. Tender, seasoned chicken combined with a cheesy, garlicky sauce and a crispy broiled mozzarella topping creates a decadent meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish will impress everyone at the table.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course, Pasta, Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop, Broiling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
For the Sauce:
4 tablespoons butter
5 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
1 cup chicken broth
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
For the Pasta:
1 pound linguine pasta
Instructions
Season the Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until evenly coated.
Cook the Pasta: Cook the linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the seasoned chicken for 6–8 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in whole milk and chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
Add Cream Cheese and Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the softened cream cheese until melted. Add 1 ½ cups of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and add red pepper flakes for extra heat if desired.
Combine Chicken and Pasta: Add the cooked chicken and linguine to the skillet, tossing everything to coat evenly in the sauce.
Broil for a Crispy Finish: Transfer the pasta to a serving dish, then sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese on top. Broil in the oven for 2–3 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Serve: Serve the creamy Cajun chicken linguine immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or extra red pepper flakes for more heat.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian version, keeping the sauce the same.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.
