If you’re craving the ultimate comfort food with a bold, spicy kick and loads of creamy, cheesy indulgence, look no further than this Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with a rich Garlic Mozzarella Sauce. This dish brings together tender, Cajun-spiced chicken, perfectly cooked linguine, and a velvety, garlicky cheese sauce that’s pure heaven in every bite.
This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights at home, or when you want to impress guests with a restaurant-quality meal without leaving your kitchen.
class="wp-block-heading">🛒 Ingredients Breakdown
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Lean protein that soaks up all the bold Cajun spices. - 2 tablespoons olive oil
To help the seasoning stick and give the chicken a golden sear. - 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
Adds that signature spicy, smoky Southern flavor. - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Deepens the smoky flavor and enhances the Cajun profile. - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
More savory depth. - 1 teaspoon onion powder
Balances the spice and adds sweet undertones. - 1 teaspoon salt & ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Essential for flavor balance.
For the Pasta & Sauce:
- 1 pound linguine pasta
Hearty, ribbon-like pasta perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce. - 4 tablespoons butter
Forms the base of the roux and gives richness. - 5 cloves garlic, minced
Fragrant, bold flavor—the star of the sauce. - ¼ cup all-purpose flour
Thickens the sauce into silky perfection. - 3 cups whole milk & 1 cup chicken broth
Abalance of creaminess and savory depth. - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
Melts into the sauce to make it ultra-luxurious. - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
Mild, melty, and oh-so-stretchy. - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salty, nutty richness for an extra layer of flavor. - Salt & black pepper to taste
Adjust seasoning after sauce comes together. - Red pepper flakes (optional)
For extra heat if you like it spicy.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure every piece is evenly coated with spices. Let it marinate briefly while prepping the rest of your ingredients.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Toss with a drizzle of oil to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the seasoned chicken. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Build the Garlic Mozzarella Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.
Step 5: Make the Roux
Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to remove the raw flour taste and form a roux.
Step 6: Create the Creamy Base
Slowly whisk in the milk and chicken broth, ensuring a smooth mixture. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally until thickened.
Step 7: Melt in the Cheeses
Lower the heat and stir in the softened cream cheese until it’s completely melted and silky. Add 1½ cups of mozzarella and all the Parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is melted and creamy.
Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste.
Step 8: Combine Pasta and Chicken
Add the cooked linguine and seared chicken to the sauce. Gently toss until all the noodles are coated and the chicken is evenly distributed.
Step 9: Final Cheese Touch
Transfer the creamy pasta to a large serving dish or oven-safe skillet. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Step 10: Broil Until Bubbly
Place under the broiler for 2–3 minutes, or until the top is melted, golden, and bubbly. Keep a close eye—don’t let it burn!
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for color.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a crisp Caesar salad.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness, or drizzle with hot sauce for extra kick.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
- Freezing not recommended due to the dairy content.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Dish
✅ Loaded with flavorful Cajun spice
✅ Rich, creamy garlic-cheese sauce
✅ Comfort food perfection in one skillet
✅ Easy to make but impressive enough for guests
✅ Totally customizable with veggies or seafood
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is the kind of meal that makes people go back for seconds—and maybe thirds. It’s fiery, creamy, and totally comforting, all in one gorgeous, cheesy bite.
Ready to make magic in your kitchen? This pasta won’t disappoint. 🍝🔥
Would you like this in a printable recipe card format or a social media-friendly post?