If you’re craving a comforting meal that combines rich creaminess with a spicy kick, this Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter is your new go-to recipe. Tender chicken, buttery garlic sauce, and stretchy mozzarella come together over a bed of linguine for a restaurant-worthy dish that’s surprisingly simple to make at home.
This one-pan recipe delivers bold Cajun flavors with a smooth, velvety texture — perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
Serves 4
- 12 oz (340 g) linguine pasta
- 2 large chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to spice preference)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- ½ cup (120 ml) chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups (150 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Season chicken slices with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Cajun Butter Sauce
- In the same pan, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Pasta
- Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Add cooked linguine to the pan, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss to combine.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan.
- Serve hot and enjoy the irresistible combination of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with garlic bread and a light salad for a balanced meal.
- Add sautéed bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrients.
- For an indulgent touch, drizzle with extra garlic butter before serving.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 of 4) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 610 |
| Protein | 38 g |
| Total Fat | 32 g |
| Saturated Fat | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 42 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 3 g |
| Sodium | 680 mg |
| Cholesterol | 145 mg |
Nutritional Notes:
- High-protein meal thanks to lean chicken breast.
- Cajun seasoning boosts metabolism and adds depth without extra calories.
- Mozzarella and Parmesan offer calcium and rich creaminess.
- Can be lightened by using half-and-half or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother sauce — pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents.
- Don’t overheat after adding mozzarella to avoid stringy texture.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning depending on spice preference — mild for comfort, extra bold for heat lovers.
- For a gluten-free version, use rice or chickpea linguine.
This Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter is the ultimate comfort dish — indulgent, flavorful, and easy enough for a busy weeknight. The balance of creamy mozzarella, zesty Cajun spice, and garlicky butter transforms a simple pasta dinner into something unforgettable.
Whether you serve it family-style or for a special date night, this recipe guarantees to impress every time.