Ingredients:
- 1.25 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 oz cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Preparation:
Step 1: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Cook the linguine until al dente, then drain and set aside. Keep ½ cup of the pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning later.
Step 2: Pat the chicken dry and season on both sides with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Heat olive oil with 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken slices and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning once, until golden brown and fully cooked. Transfer to a plate and cover lightly.
Step 4: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Melt the remaining butter, then add the garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Stir for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden.
Step 5: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the skillet to lift any browned bits. Stir in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
Step 6: Reduce the heat to low and add the mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese if using. Stir until the sauce is smooth, thick, and creamy. Taste and adjust with more Cajun seasoning, salt, or pepper if needed.
Step 7: Add the linguine to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Return the chicken, stirring until everything is evenly covered and warmed through. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Step 8: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot, with extra Parmesan sprinkled over the top.
Why you’ll love this recipe:
This recipe is a winner because it combines the comfort of creamy pasta with the zesty kick of Cajun spices. The chicken is tender and flavorful, and the cheesy sauce is rich and satisfying. It’s a relatively quick and easy meal to prepare, perfect for a weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. The option to add cream cheese elevates the sauce to an even more decadent level. Plus, the flexibility to adjust the level of heat with red pepper flakes means you can customize it to your preference!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or crusty Italian bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette makes a great accompaniment.
- For an extra touch, sprinkle a bit more fresh parsley and red pepper flakes on top.
Tips:
- Don’t overcook the linguine; al dente is key for the best texture.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your liking. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less and add more to taste.
- For an even richer sauce, use full-fat heavy cream.
- If you don’t have cream cheese, you can omit it without significantly affecting the flavor.
- Make sure to keep the pasta water after draining. It’s great for adjusting the consistency of the sauce.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information:
- Calories: ~820 per serving
- Protein: Approximately 50g per serving (can vary based on cheese and chicken portion)
- Sodium: Varies depending on added salt and sodium content of cheese and broth
Conclusion:
Garlic Cajun Chicken with Cheesy Mozzarella Linguine is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s a delightful combination of flavors and textures that’s both comforting and exciting. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers about this Recipe:
Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, you can substitute linguine with other long pasta shapes like fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package directions.
Q2: Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini. Sauté them with the garlic and proceed with the recipe as written.
Q3: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Of course! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like provolone, fontina, or even a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Q4: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: If you like it hot, add more red pepper flakes to the garlic butter. You can also use a spicier Cajun seasoning or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Q5: Can I prepare this dish in advance?
A: While it’s best served immediately, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, cook the pasta, combine everything in the skillet, and heat through.
