One-Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

One-Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

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Ready to upgrade your pasta night with bold Southern flair? This One-Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is a rich, comforting meal that brings the heat and the indulgence. Think golden-seared Cajun chicken, perfectly cooked linguine, and a silky garlic-infused cheese sauce—all made in a single pot for convenience and maximum flavor.

It’s a weeknight hero and weekend showstopper rolled into one. The Cajun seasoning delivers just the right kick, while the mozzarella adds a creamy pull that hugs every strand of pasta. Best part? Fewer dishes, bigger payoff. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving something special for dinner, this dish delivers.


Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To create the perfect One-Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine, the right tools make all the difference:

  • Large Deep Skillet or Dutch Oven: A roomy, heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even cooking and allows you to brown the chicken and cook the pasta in one vessel without overcrowding.
  • Chef’s Knife: For slicing the chicken breasts into even portions, which helps them cook evenly and quickly.
  • Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring the sauce gently so the cheese melts smoothly without sticking or burning.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy matters when balancing Cajun spice and creamy richness.
  • Tongs: To flip and remove the chicken easily while keeping it juicy and intact.

Using the correct tools ensures this one-pot dish is not just flavorful but also stress-free to prepare.


Ingredients for the One-Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine

Each ingredient here earns its place—flavor, texture, or that unbeatable Cajun character:

  • Chicken Breasts: The star protein, seasoned generously for that smoky heat and juicy bite.
  • Linguine Pasta: Holds up beautifully to creamy sauces, giving a satisfying chew and elegance.
  • Olive Oil: For searing the chicken to golden perfection while adding richness.
  • Butter: Adds depth to the garlic sauce and rounds out the heat with creamy balance.
  • Fresh Garlic: Minced for aromatic intensity and classic comfort.
  • Heavy Cream: Creates the luscious, velvety base for the sauce.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into a gooey, cheesy finish that clings to every bite.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Offers salty, nutty balance to the creamy sauce.
  • Cajun Seasoning: The hero spice blend bringing the signature kick and flavor punch.
  • Chicken Broth: Used to cook the pasta and deepen the savory undertones.
  • Fresh Parsley: Chopped for a vibrant, herby finish.
  • Salt & Pepper: Essential for balancing flavors.
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How To Make the One-Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Season chicken breasts on both sides with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high. Sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Set aside to rest.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Start the Sauce

In the same pot, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic. Stir for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Pasta

Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine. Bring to a low simmer, then add linguine. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until pasta is al dente and liquid is mostly absorbed.

Step 4: Cheese It Up

Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Finish with Chicken and Parsley

Slice the rested chicken and place it back into the pot or arrange over plated pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Cajun seasoning if desired.


How to Serve and Store This Spicy-Creamy Comfort Food

Serve this One-Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine hot right from the stove—no need for extra dishes. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or warm garlic bread. For extra flair, a squeeze of lemon over the top adds brightness that contrasts the rich sauce beautifully.

To store, let leftovers cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or broth to restore its creamy consistency. This dish does not freeze well due to the dairy content.


Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is Cajun chicken linguine?

It has a moderate spice level. You can control the heat by using less Cajun seasoning or opting for a milder version.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, just skip the searing step and warm the chicken in the sauce before serving.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half, though the sauce will be slightly thinner.

Is there a vegetarian version?

Absolutely. Swap the chicken for mushrooms or zucchini and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best fresh, but you can make it a few hours ahead and keep it covered on the stovetop. Reheat with a splash of cream or broth.


Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If you love this One-Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine, here are more comforting and flavor-packed dishes you should try next:

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce for a smooth, cheesy experience with rotini.
One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese that gives you crispy and creamy all in one.
Sweet Spicy Garlic Honey BBQ Chicken Pasta for that irresistible sweet-heat combo.
Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta if you want a veggie-forward twist.
One-Pot Sassy Honey Garlic Chicken Rice Pasta when you’re craving bold and punchy flavors.


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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go bold on the Cajun spice or keep it mellow? Did you swap in another cheese?

I love seeing how you make these dishes your own. If you have questions or ideas, drop them below—let’s keep sharing the flavor!


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One-Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

One-Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce


  • Author: Olivia McKenney
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This One-Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine is a bold, indulgent dinner loaded with seared Cajun chicken, linguine pasta, and a rich garlic mozzarella sauce. It’s creamy, spicy, and satisfying—perfect for both quick weeknight meals and special gatherings.


Ingredients

1 lb chicken breasts

8 oz linguine pasta

2 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp butter

4 cloves fresh garlic, minced

1 ½ cups heavy cream

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tbsp Cajun seasoning

2 cups chicken broth

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Salt & pepper to taste


Instructions

1. Season chicken breasts on both sides with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and let rest.

3. Reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic to the pan, sauté 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.

5. Add linguine pasta. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until pasta is al dente and liquid has mostly reduced.

6. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until smooth and creamy.

7. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

8. Slice the rested chicken and serve over or mixed into the pasta.

9. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning if desired.

Notes

For a thicker sauce, reduce the broth slightly before adding cheese.

If reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to keep the pasta creamy.

Swap the chicken with shrimp or mushrooms for a fun twist.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: One-Pot
  • Cuisine: Cajun/Comfort

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (1/4 recipe)
  • Calories: 640
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 750mg
  • Fat: 38g
  • Saturated Fat: 20g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 140mg

Keywords: Cajun chicken pasta, creamy linguine, one-pot dinner

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