Why Make This Recipe
Indulgent Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter is a dish that delights the senses. It combines the richness of creamy sauce, the warmth of Cajun spices, and the satisfying bite of linguine pasta. This meal is perfect for a cozy dinner or when you want to impress your guests. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip it up in no time.
How to Make Indulgent Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter
Ingredients:
- 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)
- 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)
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Optional for additional flavor)
- 8 ounces Linguine Pasta (Gluten-free alternatives work as well)
- 1 cup Reserved Pasta Water (For adjusting sauce consistency)
Directions:
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Preparation: Start by cooking the linguine pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to reserve 1 cup of pasta water when draining.
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Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
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In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it’s cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
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In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
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Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Stir in the mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. If you want a cheesier flavor, you can add the grated Parmesan cheese.
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Slice the cooked chicken and add it back to the skillet. Toss in the cooked linguine and mix everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
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Taste and adjust salt and seasoning if necessary.
How to Serve Indulgent Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter
Serve this dish warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Pair it with garlic bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Indulgent Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Tips to Make Indulgent Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine in Garlic Cajun Butter
- For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate in Cajun seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Adjust the Cajun seasoning based on your spice tolerance; you can always add more later but can’t take it out once it’s in!
- Using fresh parsley or basil as a garnish can add brightness to the dish.
Variation
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. You can also swap the chicken for shrimp or even a plant-based protein for a different twist.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free options.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can cook the chicken and sauce ahead. Combine them with the pasta just before serving.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with garlic bread or a lightly dressed salad. You can also serve it with a glass of white wine for a nice touch!
Indulgent Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 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 and Pasta
- 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
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Optional for additional flavor
- 8 ounces Linguine Pasta Gluten-free alternatives work as well
- 1 cup Reserved Pasta Water For adjusting sauce consistency
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by cooking the linguine pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to reserve 1 cup of pasta water when draining.
- Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it’s cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Stir in the mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. If you want a cheesier flavor, you can add the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Slice the cooked chicken and add it back to the skillet. Toss in the cooked linguine and mix everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust salt and seasoning if necessary.
