Indulgent Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine
A delightful dish featuring creamy sauce, Cajun spices, and linguine pasta, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner.
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.
Notes
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. For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate in Cajun seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking. Using fresh parsley or basil as a garnish can add brightness to the dish.