Description
This Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce recipe combines tender Cajun-spiced chicken with a rich, creamy garlic cheese sauce over perfectly cooked linguine for an irresistible, satisfying dinner that’s ready in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz linguine pasta
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (divided)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts horizontally to create thin cutlets. Rub each piece evenly with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning for flavorful seasoning.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through and has a nicely blackened crust. Remove the chicken from the pan and slice into strips.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant but not burnt.
- Make Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses, stirring continuously until the cheeses melt completely and the sauce becomes smooth.
- Season Sauce: Season the sauce with the remaining tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you prefer some heat. Stir well to incorporate all flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken: Toss the cooked linguine into the cheese sauce, ensuring all pasta is well coated. Add the sliced chicken strips and gently stir to combine everything evenly.
- Serve: Garnish the dish with chopped parsley for a fresh color and flavor boost. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on the side if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase or omit the red pepper flakes according to your preference.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or to make it slightly vegetarian-friendly (excluding chicken).
- Ensure not to overcook the pasta; al dente texture works best to hold the creamy sauce.
- Use freshly minced garlic for the best aroma and taste.
- This recipe can be doubled to serve more people easily.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
