Name: Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun-Inspired
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 1 tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp garlic powder; 12 oz linguine pasta; 2 tbsp butter; 3–4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup Parmesan cheese (optional); 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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This creamy Cajun chicken linguine with garlic mozzarella sauce is a bold and flavorful pasta dish that I love making when I want something comforting with a little kick. Tender chicken is tossed in Cajun spices, then simmered in a rich, cheesy garlic sauce and served over perfectly cooked linguine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines the smoky heat of Cajun seasoning with the creaminess of mozzarella and garlic. The sauce clings to every strand of pasta, making it indulgent yet balanced. It’s also versatile—I can adjust the spice level to my taste, and it always feels like a restaurant-worthy meal right from my own kitchen.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Olive oil
Cajun seasoning
Smoked paprika
Salt
Black pepper
Garlic powder
Linguine pasta
Butter
Fresh garlic, minced
Heavy cream
Chicken broth
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

I cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
I season the chicken with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, then remove it from the pan.
In the same skillet, I melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
I stir in heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
I add shredded mozzarella cheese (and Parmesan if using) and stir until smooth and creamy.
I return the chicken to the skillet, coating it well in the sauce.
I toss the cooked linguine into the skillet until fully coated.
I garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes around 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so I can have this creamy Cajun chicken linguine on the table in about 30 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to boost the vegetables. I also like using shrimp instead of chicken for a Cajun seafood twist. For extra heat, I add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes. If I want it lighter, I replace part of the heavy cream with milk or half-and-half.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. The microwave also works, but I stir halfway to keep the pasta creamy. I don’t recommend freezing since cream sauces can separate.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta instead of linguine?

Yes, I like using fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti depending on what I have on hand.

How do I make it less spicy?

I reduce the Cajun seasoning or use a mild version. The creamy sauce helps balance the spice as well.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, I use gluten-free pasta and check that the Cajun seasoning doesn’t contain hidden gluten.

Do I have to use mozzarella?

No, I can swap it with Monterey Jack, provolone, or even a blend of cheeses for different flavor profiles.

Can I make the sauce thicker?

Yes, I simmer it a little longer to reduce, or I stir in extra mozzarella until it reaches the thickness I like.

Conclusion

This creamy Cajun chicken linguine with garlic mozzarella sauce is one of my favorite comfort food pasta dishes. I love the bold, smoky spices paired with the rich, cheesy sauce—it’s a perfect balance of heat and creaminess. Whether I make it for a weeknight dinner or a special meal, it always feels like a treat.