Here’s a rich and flavorful recipe for Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce — perfect for a cozy dinner with a spicy twist!
🐔 Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce
📝 Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 ½ tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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Salt and pepper (to taste)
For the Pasta:
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8 oz (about 225g) linguine
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Salt (for boiling water)
For the Garlic Mozzarella Sauce:
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2 tbsp butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tbsp all-purpose flour
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1 cup heavy cream (or half & half for a lighter version)
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½ cup chicken broth (or pasta water)
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1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Garnish:
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Fresh parsley, chopped
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Extra Cajun seasoning
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Grated Parmesan
👩🍳 Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
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Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets.
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Rub each piece with Cajun seasoning, a bit of salt, and pepper.
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 4–5 minutes per side or until fully cooked and nicely seared.
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Transfer to a plate and let rest. Slice into strips.
3. Make the Garlic Mozzarella Sauce:
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In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter.
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Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
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Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to make a roux.
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Slowly whisk in heavy cream and chicken broth (or pasta water), stirring until smooth.
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Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded mozzarella and Parmesan. Let melt fully, stirring often.
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Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. If sauce is too thick, thin it with more broth or pasta water.
4. Assemble the Dish:
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Add cooked linguine directly into the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
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Top with sliced Cajun chicken.
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Sprinkle with parsley and a touch of Cajun seasoning or Parmesan if desired.
🍷 Serving Suggestions:
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Serve with garlic bread and a simple green salad.
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Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay.