If there’s one dish that sings with flavor, silkiness, and soul-warming comfort, it’s Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter. Imagine tender chicken breast seared with zesty Cajun spices, tossed with a lush garlic cream sauce, and tangled up with linguine noodles that soak in every drop. Finished with bubbling mozzarella and a pop of fresh parsley, this is the lavish pasta night you deserve. Whether you’re marking a special occasion or simply craving cozy decadence, this recipe is your ticket to restaurant-level satisfaction right in your own kitchen.

Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter lies in its straightforward yet powerhouse lineup of ingredients. Each element carries its weight—flavorful, colorful, and absolutely essential to building those deep, crave-worthy layers in the final dish.

Chicken Breasts: Sliced chicken takes on bold Cajun flavors and remains juicy when seared just right.
Linguine Pasta: Flat strands perfectly trap the creamy sauce for the ultimate twirl.
Olive Oil: Provides a subtle, fruity base for that golden chicken sear.
Unsalted Butter: Divided in steps, it adds irresistible silkiness and richness to the sauce.
Cajun Seasoning: The magic ingredient for robust, spicy depth—adjust for your heat preference!
Garlic Powder: Boosts the savory undertones in both the chicken and sauce.
Smoked Paprika: Adds a gentle smokiness that sets this apart from standard cream pastas.
Red Pepper Flakes: Just a pinch elevates everything with a spark of heat.
Salt & Pepper: Simple but essential for balancing and sharpening all the flavors.
Minced Garlic: Six cloves bring a warm, aromatic punch to that signature garlicky sauce.
Heavy Cream: Ensures the sauce is sumptuously thick and glossy.
Chicken Broth: Provides a savory backbone and helps thin the sauce to the perfect texture.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The star cheese—melts into creamy, stringy bliss.
Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: Sharp, nutty, and brightens the sauce in all the right ways.
Cream Cheese: Two ounces for that subtle tang and extra creaminess.
Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh finish to every bite.

How to Make Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter

Step 1: Cook the Linguine

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the linguine and cook just until al dente—the noodles should have a bit of bite since they’ll finish absorbing flavor from the sauce later. Once cooked, don’t forget to reserve half a cup of that starchy pasta water; it can work wonders for adjusting the consistency of your sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside, ready for its starring role with Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

While the pasta bubbles away, slice your chicken breasts into even pieces—this ensures fast, even cooking. Toss them with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper so every surface gets that flavor-packed coating. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and one tablespoon of butter over medium-high. Cook the chicken for about five to seven minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set aside, letting the juices rest a bit.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Cajun Butter Sauce

Now for the sauce magic! In the same skillet, add the rest of the butter and melt over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes, stirring until the garlic is fragrant and just golden—don’t let it burn. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer, scraping up all the flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the heavy cream, whisking to combine, then sprinkle in the mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese. Keep whisking until the sauce is creamy, smooth, and utterly luxurious.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Toss the drained linguine right into the skillet with the sauce. Use tongs to gently twirl and coat every strand—if the sauce looks too thick, trickle in a little reserved pasta water to loosen things up. Taste and adjust your salt and Cajun seasoning until it’s just right; remember, Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter thrives with bold, balanced flavors.

Step 5: Slice the Chicken and Serve

Slice the rested chicken and lay it over the saucy linguine. Spoon over any leftover sauce from the skillet to make every bite luscious. Finish with a flourish of fresh parsley for vivid color and a whisper of herbal freshness. Now, you’re ready for the ultimate bowl of indulgence!

How to Serve Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter

Garnishes

A sprinkling of freshly chopped parsley is the classic finish for Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter, bringing not only a splash of color but a hint of brightness. For extra flair, scatter a few shavings of Parmesan or a dusting of smoked paprika over the top, or add lemon zest for a citrusy kick. Don’t be afraid to get creative—the more personal, the better.

Side Dishes

This rich and creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides. Think a simple green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette, roasted or steamed broccoli for a bit of crunch, or warm, crusty bread perfect for soaking up every drop of that luscious sauce. When in the mood for a heartier spread, try garlic bread or a roasted vegetable medley—the possibilities are wide open!

Creative Ways to Present

Impress your guests by twirling the linguine into neat nests on each plate, topping with sliced chicken, and artistically drizzling extra sauce on the side. Or serve family-style in a big, shallow bowl where everyone can dig in together. To take it up a notch, layer the noodles and sauce into mini casserole dishes, sprinkle on extra mozzarella, and broil for a bubbly, golden finish right before serving!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter, simply store everything in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta and chicken will keep well for up to three days, and the sauce will maintain its velvety texture when reheated gently.

Freezing

While the sauce is at its absolute best fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Be sure to cool the pasta completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. For the smoothest results, freeze the sauce and pasta separately. They’ll keep for up to one month—just note that the cream sauce may separate slightly upon thawing, but vigorous whisking can restore much of its creamy glory.

Reheating

To reheat Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter, place leftovers in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk, cream, or chicken broth to bring back the silkiness. Stir gently until hot. You can also microwave individual portions in short bursts, stirring in between, to keep the sauce smooth and creamy. Avoid overheating, which can cause the dairy to split.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of pasta?

Absolutely! While linguine is classic in Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter for its ability to grip the sauce, fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne all work beautifully. Just adjust cooking times and enjoy experimenting with your favorite shape.

Is it possible to make this dish less spicy?

Of course. Simply reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes, or use a mild Cajun blend. If you still want depth without too much heat, focus on smoked paprika and a generous garlic kick.

Can I substitute the mozzarella or cream cheese?

You can! Try low-moisture mozzarella for more stretch, or swap in fontina for creaminess. Cream cheese can be replaced with mascarpone for a richer taste, though the sauce will be slightly milder.

What’s the best way to prep this ahead of time for a dinner party?

Cook the chicken and prepare the sauce up to a day ahead, storing them separately. Just before serving, cook the pasta, gently reheat the sauce and chicken, then toss everything together. This way your Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter stays ultra-fresh and delicious.

How do I prevent the sauce from getting too thick?

Keep a bit of reserved pasta water on hand! If your sauce thickens as it sits or during reheating, stir in a tablespoon or two of the starchy water until you reach the perfect, silky texture.

Final Thoughts

If you love gathering around the table for something special, Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter is a recipe you simply can’t miss. It’s cozy, luxurious, and guaranteed to impress—so don’t wait for a special occasion. Give it a try and let this dish become a new favorite in your repertoire!