Are you ready for a dinner recipe that tantalizes your taste buds and impresses your guests? Look no further than Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter. This dish perfectly marries the bold kick of Cajun seasoning with creamy mozzarella sauce that hugs tender linguine pasta, creating a brilliant melange of flavors and textures. If you enjoy dishes that present gourmet flair without the fuss, this is a must-try! Not only does it deliver intense flavor with every bite, but it’s also simple to prepare, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, and cozy evenings in.
Imagine savoring juicy, seared chicken breasts seasoned with aromatic spices, lavishly incorporated into a rich sauce, and served over comforting linguine. The combination of heavy cream, garlic, and cheese creates an unctuous sauce that’s undeniably indulgent, and the Cajun kick offers just the right amount of heat to elevate the dish without overwhelming your palate. Kids and adults alike will relish this meal, making it a versatile favorite suitable for various occasions.
You may think such a delicious dish is complicated; however, it comes together in just about 40 minutes, and with every ingredient likely found in your kitchen, it’s a breeze to whip up. Dive into this scrumptious recipe and treat yourself to a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine
- Deliciously Flavorful: The blend of Cajun seasoning, garlic, and cheeses creates an explosion of flavors that leaves an imprint on your palate.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for weeknight meals.
- Comfort Food Classic: The rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken over pasta is the essence of comforting food.
- Flexible Ingredients: You can easily modify the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
- Impressive Presentation: Perfect for impressing guests while being easy enough for family dinners!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you dive into cooking, it’s essential to prep your workspace to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Start by gathering all your ingredients and tools; you’ll need a cutting board, mixing bowls, a skillet, a pot for boiling pasta, and a serving spoon. Make sure to have measuring spoons for accuracy, as well as a good chef’s knife ready for slicing your chicken.
Providing your workspace with organization will streamline the process and make the cooking experience enjoyable. Prepare to season your chicken by patting it dry with a paper towel. Having your ingredients ready to go will also help you create an efficient workflow from searing the chicken to combining everything in the sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 ½ teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 10 ounces linguine pasta
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure a perfect sear. Then, season the chicken on both sides with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This step is crucial, as it will impart flavor directly into the chicken while it cooks.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 5–6 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and fully cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the linguine pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Once cooked, reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water and drain the rest. This reserved water can be added later to loosen the sauce, making it easier to coat the pasta perfectly.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet where you seared the chicken, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until fragrant. To the garlic, stir in Cajun seasoning and the optional red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Slowly pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 3–4 minutes as it thickens, forming a rich sauce.
Step 5: Cheese It Up
Now it’s time to introduce the star ingredients: shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir both cheeses into the simmering sauce until completely melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste. The result should be a velvety, creamy sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Add the drained linguine to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat in the creamy sauce thoroughly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water as needed to achieve the desired consistency. Finally, slice the rested chicken into strips, place it on top of the pasta, and finish with a garnish of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Variations
- Protein: Consider substituting the chicken with shrimp or sausage for a different protein option. Both pair excellently with the sauce.
- Vegetables: Add spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes to enhance the dish’s nutritional value and color.
- Spices: Adjust the level of heat by adding more Cajun seasoning or opting for a milder seasoning blend if desired.
Cooking Notes
- For best results, always ensure the chicken reaches the proper internal temperature using a meat thermometer.
- If you want a richer sauce, feel free to increase the amount of cheese, but keep in mind it may thicken up the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this delicious linguine with a side of garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
- A fresh green salad drizzled with vinaigrette will complement the rich flavors of the dish perfectly.
Tips
- For an even quicker prep time, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken.
- When making the sauce, remember to stir continuously to avoid burning the garlic.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 600 calories per serving
- Protein: Estimated 40g per serving
- Sodium: Roughly 800mg per serving
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance. Reheat gently before serving.
What can I serve with Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine?
This dish pairs well with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta such as fettuccine or penne.
Is this recipe spicy?
The level of spice can be adjusted based on your taste preferences by modifying the amount of Cajun seasoning used.
Conclusion
This Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter is not just a dish; it’s an experience of comfort and flavor that brings everyone together at the dinner table. The delightful combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked linguine makes it a family favorite that you’ll turn to time and again. It’s easy to customize, ensuring that it can adapt to suit any palate. So whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or treating yourself to a rich meal after a long day, this fantastic recipe delivers on all fronts. Don’t forget to comment below with your thoughts, share your variations, or let us know how you enjoyed this indulgent dish!
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Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine is a deliciously flavorful dish that brings comfort and excitement to your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 ½ teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 10 ounces linguine pasta
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Instructions
- Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure a perfect sear. Then, season the chicken on both sides with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This step is crucial, as it will impart flavor directly into the chicken while it cooks.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 5–6 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and fully cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the linguine pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Once cooked, reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water and drain the rest. This reserved water can be added later to loosen the sauce, making it easier to coat the pasta perfectly.
- In the same skillet where you seared the chicken, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until fragrant. To the garlic, stir in Cajun seasoning and the optional red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Slowly pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 3–4 minutes as it thickens, forming a rich sauce.
- Now it’s time to introduce the star ingredients: shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir both cheeses into the simmering sauce until completely melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste. The result should be a velvety, creamy sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
- Add the drained linguine to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat in the creamy sauce thoroughly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water as needed to achieve the desired consistency. Finally, slice the rested chicken into strips, place it on top of the pasta, and finish with a garnish of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Notes
For best results, always ensure the chicken reaches the proper internal temperature using a meat thermometer. If you want a richer sauce, feel free to increase the amount of cheese, but keep in mind it may thicken up the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 40 g