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Indulgent Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 69 reviews

This Indulgent Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine features tender Cajun-spiced chicken breasts served atop a rich and creamy garlic butter sauce made with heavy cream and melted mozzarella. Tossed with perfectly cooked linguine pasta and finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, this dish combines bold Cajun flavors with smooth, cheesy indulgence for a comforting yet elevated pasta dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 2 pieces Chicken Breasts (skinless and boneless)
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun Seasoning (adjust based on spice tolerance)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt (be cautious, Cajun seasoning often contains salt)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground for better flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (can swap with vegetable oil)

Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons Butter (unsalted preferred)
  • 3 cloves Garlic (fresh minced for best flavor)
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
  • 1 cup Low-Moisture Mozzarella Cheese (smooth melting goodness, shredded)
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional for additional flavor)

Pasta

  • 8 ounces Linguine Pasta (gluten-free alternatives work as well)
  • 1 cup Reserved Pasta Water (for adjusting sauce consistency)

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps to achieve a better sear and locks in flavor.
  2. Seasoning: Generously season both sides of the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to infuse them with bold, spicy flavor.
  3. Searing Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for about 4-5 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest to retain juices.
  4. Cooking Pasta: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining the linguine well.
  5. Building the Sauce: Using the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned, releasing aromatic garlic flavor into the butter.
  6. Adding Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly, creating a luscious base for the sauce.
  7. Melting Cheese: Gradually add the shredded mozzarella cheese to the skillet, stirring continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and silky.
  8. Tossing Pasta: Add the drained linguine into the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. Use reserved pasta water little by little to loosen the sauce and reach your preferred consistency.
  9. Plating: Slice the rested chicken breasts into strips. Serve the chicken either on top of the creamy linguine or mixed into the pasta for easier combining.
  10. Garnishing and Serving: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve the dish hot for the most indulgent experience.

Notes

  • Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning according to your spice tolerance to avoid overpowering the dish.
  • Using low-moisture mozzarella provides the best melt and texture for the creamy sauce.
  • Reserve pasta water is important to achieve a silky sauce with perfect consistency.
  • Resting the chicken after cooking helps retain its juiciness and tenderness.
  • For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
  • Gluten-free linguine can be used to accommodate gluten sensitivity.

Keywords: Creamy chicken pasta, Cajun chicken linguine, mozzarella pasta, garlic butter sauce, easy creamy chicken recipe

Find it online: https://spiceupwithsophie.com/indulgent-creamy-mozzarella-chicken-linguine-in-garlic-cajun-butter-recipe/