One-Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

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This One-Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is the kind of dish that instantly turns any dinner into a celebration. With a perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and bold savory flavor, every forkful wraps around your taste buds like a warm Southern hug. The juicy Cajun-spiced chicken breast is pan-seared to a beautiful golden char, sliced thick, and nestled into rich, garlicky linguine smothered in a creamy mozzarella-infused sauce that clings to every strand. Fresh herbs and a kiss of spice add complexity without overpowering the dish’s comforting nature.

What makes this recipe a knockout isn’t just the flavors — it’s the simplicity. This is a true one-pot meal, so all the magic happens with minimal cleanup. The creamy garlic mozzarella sauce simmers right in the same pot as the pasta, absorbing all the smoky bits left behind from the chicken. The result is a dish that feels like restaurant-quality comfort food without the restaurant bill or fuss. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight or a casual gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to steal the spotlight.

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Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine

• Restaurant-style comfort food at home – Bold Cajun spice paired with a creamy, cheesy pasta base.
• One pot = less mess – Everything cooks in a single pot for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup.
• Customizable heat – Make it as spicy or as mild as you like.
• Incredibly creamy garlic mozzarella sauce – Luscious, rich, and packed with flavor.
• Perfectly juicy seared chicken – That golden crust is everything.
• Great for leftovers – Reheats like a dream for next-day indulgence.
• Quick and impressive – On the table in under 40 minutes and impressive enough for guests.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment + Their Importance)

To nail this One-Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce, having the right tools can make a world of difference. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:

• Large Deep Skillet or Dutch Oven – This is your MVP. You’ll sear the chicken and cook the pasta and sauce in the same pot, so it must be deep and wide enough to hold everything without spilling over.
• Tongs – Perfect for flipping and handling the chicken without piercing it and losing those precious juices.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board – For evenly slicing the chicken breast before and after cooking. A sharp knife ensures clean, safe cuts.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula – Helps you stir the pasta and sauce without scratching your pan. Ideal for scraping up the browned bits for added flavor.
• Grater – Freshly grated mozzarella melts smoother than pre-shredded. A box grater or microplane works well.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – For accurately measuring spices, cream, and liquids. Precision is key with bold flavors like Cajun seasoning.

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Preparation Tips

• Use room temperature chicken – Let the chicken sit out for 15–20 minutes before cooking. This helps it sear evenly without becoming tough.
• Season generously – Cajun spice mix should coat the chicken thoroughly. Don’t be shy — this is where your bold flavor begins.
• Grate cheese fresh – Pre-shredded mozzarella contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Always go fresh.
• Don’t overcook the pasta – It will continue to cook slightly in the hot sauce, so stop just before al dente.
• Deglaze the pan – After searing the chicken, a splash of broth or cream loosens the flavorful browned bits — key for a rich sauce base.
• Simmer low and slow – Once your sauce comes together, reduce the heat and give it a few minutes to thicken and marry the flavors.

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Ingredients for This One-Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Here’s everything you need to bring this rich, spicy, and creamy dish to life:

For the Cajun Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta & Sauce:

• 10 oz (about 280g) linguine (or fettuccine)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 ½ cups freshly grated mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Optional: chopped sun-dried tomatoes or crispy bacon bits for garnish

Optional Homemade Cajun Seasoning (if making your own):

• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon salt

This list is simple, but every item plays a role in building the layers of spice, cream, and savory depth that make this dish unforgettable.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for One-Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

Heat the olive oil and butter in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and let rest. Do not wipe out the pan — those browned bits are flavor gold.

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Step 2: Build the Base of the Sauce

In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant — be careful not to let it brown.

Pour in the chicken broth and use your spoon to scrape up the flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. This step adds rich, savory depth to your sauce.

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Step 3: Add Pasta and Simmer

Add the uncooked linguine to the pan. Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently to combine. Bring to a low simmer, not a rapid boil.

Cover and let cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed. If it thickens too quickly, add a splash of extra broth or cream.

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Step 4: Make It Cheesy

Reduce heat to low. Stir in mozzarella, parmesan, and cream cheese (if using). Keep stirring until everything melts into a smooth, creamy sauce. Taste and adjust salt or Cajun spice as needed.

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Step 5: Slice Chicken and Finish

While the sauce simmers, slice the rested chicken into strips. Nestle the chicken into the cheesy pasta or arrange on top for a picture-perfect finish.

Sprinkle with chopped parsley and optional garnishes like sun-dried tomatoes or crispy bacon bits.

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Step 6: Serve Immediately

Scoop the pasta into bowls or serve family-style on a platter. Make sure every serving gets a good helping of both creamy linguine and that spicy Cajun chicken.

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Notes

• Balance the Heat – Cajun seasoning can vary in intensity. Start with less and adjust to your heat preference after tasting the sauce.
• Add Cream Cheese for Silkiness – Though optional, that spoonful of cream cheese takes the sauce from good to unbelievably rich and velvety.
• One-Pot Wonder – This truly is a one-pot meal. Resist the urge to boil the pasta separately — cooking it in the sauce builds flavor and keeps cleanup easy.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Chicken – High heat and proper timing are key. Overcooked chicken will turn dry and lose its juiciness. Aim for an internal temp of 165°F (74°C).
• Skipping the Pan Deglaze – Those bits stuck to the pan after searing are loaded with flavor. Don’t skip the step of scraping them up when you add broth or cream.
• Using Pre-Shredded Cheese – Pre-shredded mozzarella can result in a clumpy or gritty sauce. Always shred cheese fresh for the smoothest texture.
• Boiling the Sauce – High heat can cause cream to separate. Always simmer the sauce gently to maintain a silky consistency.
• Not Stirring Pasta While Simmering – Since the pasta cooks right in the sauce, it needs a few stirs during simmering to prevent clumping or sticking.
• Adding All Seasoning at Once – Season in layers. You can always add more Cajun spice at the end, but it’s hard to fix an overly salty or spicy dish.
• Using Low-Quality Chicken – Since the chicken is the star protein, quality matters. Go for fresh, not frozen, for the best sear and flavor.
• Neglecting Rest Time – Always let the cooked chicken rest before slicing. This keeps the juices sealed in and prevents dryness.

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What to Serve With One-Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

This bold, creamy pasta already stands strong on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the entire meal into a knockout dinner experience. Think freshness, crunch, or lightness to contrast the rich sauce.

8 Recommendations:

1. Garlic Bread or Cheesy Pull-Apart Rolls
   Soak up every drop of that luscious sauce with crusty bread or soft, cheesy rolls.
2. Roasted Broccoli or Asparagus
   A touch of char and crisp texture balances the creaminess of the dish beautifully.
3. Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons
   The tangy dressing and crunch of romaine add brightness to each bite.
4. Simple Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
   Peppery greens and zesty citrus cut through the richness like a charm.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Sweet and smoky corn complements the Cajun spice perfectly.
6. Sautéed Green Beans with Garlic & Lemon
   Light and fresh, these keep your plate colorful and refreshing.
7. Fried or Baked Zucchini Chips
   Crunchy and slightly sweet, these add a playful texture contrast.
8. Chilled Sparkling Water with Citrus Slices
   Not a food, but a fresh drink helps balance the spice and cream — especially if you’re skipping wine.

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Storage Instructions

This dish stores beautifully, making it a perfect make-ahead or leftover meal. Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious:

• Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. The sauce may thicken, but a splash of milk or cream when reheating will bring it back to life.
• Freezer: While technically freezable, the cream and cheese sauce may separate once thawed. For best results, freeze only the chicken, then make the sauce fresh when reheating.
• Reheating Tips: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a bit of added cream, milk, or broth. Stir often to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving — based on 4 servings)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~640 kcal
Protein	38g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fiber	2g
Sugars	3g
Fat	36g
Saturated Fat	18g
Unsaturated Fat	14g
Trans Fat	0.5g
Cholesterol	135mg
Sodium	780mg
Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	25 minutes
Total Time	~35 minutes
Yield	4 servings
Category	Dinner, Pasta
Cuisine	Cajun-Inspired
Diet	High Protein

Note: Values are estimated and may vary depending on specific brands or adjustments made.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. While linguine holds the creamy sauce beautifully, fettuccine, penne, or even spaghetti can work just as well. Just adjust the cooking time if using thicker or shorter pasta.

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2. What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can make your own with simple pantry spices (see Part 3). Or substitute with Creole seasoning or blackened seasoning, keeping in mind that salt levels may vary.

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3. Can I make this dish less spicy?

Yes! Start with less red pepper flakes or use a mild Cajun seasoning. You can also add more cream or a bit of cream cheese to mellow out the spice.

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4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, but you’ll need to swap the cream and cheese with dairy-free alternatives. Coconut cream or oat cream can sub in for heavy cream, and use plant-based mozzarella-style shreds.

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5. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer for accuracy — internal temp should be 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, slice into the thickest part; it should be white and juicy, not pink.

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6. What if I want to add vegetables?

Great idea! Bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini all pair well. Sauté them after searing the chicken, before adding the broth and pasta.

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7. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, but make sure your pan is large enough to handle the extra volume. You may need to slightly increase cook time and stir more often to prevent sticking.

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8. Is this dish kid-friendly?

Definitely — just reduce or skip the red pepper flakes and use a mild Cajun blend. Kids will love the creamy, cheesy pasta and tender chicken.

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Conclusion

One-Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is the perfect blend of bold flavors and comfort, wrapped into a dish that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. From the spicy, seared chicken to the velvety garlic-mozzarella sauce that hugs each noodle, it’s a recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Whether you’re cooking for family, date night, or just treating yourself to a cozy dinner, this recipe fits the bill. One pan, one unforgettable meal.

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