🍝🔥 Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce
Spicy • Creamy • Cheesy • Comfort Food Perfection
If you love bold flavors and creamy pasta, this Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine is your next favorite dinner. Tender chicken is seasoned with Cajun spices, pan-seared to perfection, and tossed in a rich garlic-mozzarella sauce that coats every strand of linguine.
The combination of smoky paprika, a little heat from Cajun seasoning, and melty mozzarella makes this pasta dish decadent yet approachable. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or anytime you want that creamy, cheesy comfort food without a ton of fuss.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
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2 tablespoons butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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2 cups heavy cream
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
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Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
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12 ounces linguine, cooked according to package instructions
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Optional: red pepper flakes for extra heat
👩🍳 Directions (7 Steps)
1️⃣ Season the Chicken
In a bowl, toss chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Make sure every piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
2️⃣ Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 5–7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3️⃣ Start the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté 30–60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
4️⃣ Add Cream & Cheese
Pour in heavy cream, then stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle in smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5️⃣ Combine Chicken & Sauce
Return the cooked Cajun chicken to the skillet and toss gently in the sauce. Let it simmer 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld and the chicken stays juicy.
6️⃣ Toss with Linguine
Add cooked linguine directly into the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy garlic-mozzarella sauce.
7️⃣ Serve & Garnish
Transfer to serving plates. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and optional red pepper flakes for heat. Serve immediately with a side of garlic bread for the ultimate indulgence.