If you are searching for a dish that bursts with flavor, creaminess, and a touch of Southern charm, look no further than this Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Mozzarella Sauce. It’s the perfect harmony of tender, well-seasoned chicken, spaghetti coated in a luscious, cheesy sauce loaded with mozzarella, and just the right amount of Cajun spice to keep your taste buds dancing. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe never fails to impress and comforts like a warm hug on a plate.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Mozzarella Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is half the secret to nailing this dish. Each component plays a crucial role, from the juicy chicken breasts to the gooey mozzarella sauce that ties everything together with a silky smooth finish.

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each): Choose fresh chicken for tender, juicy bites that soak up all the seasoning.
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning: Provides the bold, smoky kick that defines this recipe.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing the chicken to golden perfection without sticking.
1 tablespoon butter: Adds rich flavor and helps with browning the chicken.
1 pound linguine pasta: Holds the creamy sauce beautifully and has just the right bite.
1/4 cup reserved pasta water: Essential for loosening the sauce and helping it cling to the noodles.
4 tablespoons butter: Creates a velvety base for the garlic and cheese sauce.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Brings aromatic depth that wakes up the entire dish.
1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds savory richness and balances the creaminess.
1 1/4 cups heavy cream (divided): The secret to that silky mozzarella sauce everyone loves.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving): Enhances flavor with a sharp, cheesy touch.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat that complements the Cajun seasoning.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Injects a pop of color and freshness.
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (for garnish): Adds an herbal brightness that balances the richness.

How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Mozzarella Sauce

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken breasts dry to help the seasoning stick, then generously coat both sides with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear your chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes per side until it’s golden brown and cooked through. This step locks in juices and builds that classic Cajun flavor foundation. Once cooked, remove the chicken and tent it with foil to rest and keep warm.

Step 2: Cook the Linguine

While the chicken rests, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your linguine until it’s perfectly al dente. This ensures the pasta has just the right texture to soak up the sauce without turning mushy. Reserve a quarter cup of pasta water before draining to help adjust the sauce consistency later on.

Step 3: Create the Mozzarella Sauce

In the same skillet (so you keep all those delicious browned bits), melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—this will infuse the sauce with a lovely aromatic base. Stir in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, then pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and let it simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Finish the Sauce and Combine

Whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until you have a smooth, luscious sauce, then season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce feels too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it just enough for the noodles to soak it up beautifully. Toss the cooked linguine into the skillet, coating every strand in that heavenly mozzarella sauce.

Step 5: Serve the Chicken Over Pasta

Slice the rested Cajun chicken and nestle it on top of the creamy, cheesy linguine. Add an extra drizzle of sauce over the chicken to lock in moisture and flavor. Finally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley, basil, and a little extra Parmesan cheese to bring it all together with a burst of color and fresh flavor.

How to Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Mozzarella Sauce

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of garnishes! Fresh parsley and basil not only provide a fresh herbal contrast but also brighten the rich sauce visually and flavor-wise. A light dusting of extra Parmesan adds that irresistible cheesy finish.

Side Dishes

This dish shines as the main event, so keep sides simple and fresh. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, or even some garlic bread on the side provide great texture and balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try layering the sliced chicken atop the pasta in a pretty spiral or serve family-style in a large skillet right at the table. You can also add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes on top for an extra pop of warmth and color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Mozzarella Sauce keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it chills, so just loosen it with a splash of milk or broth when reheating.

Freezing

If you want to freeze this dish, it’s best to keep the pasta and chicken separate. Store both in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain creaminess and texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a bit of cream, broth, or water to restore the sauce’s original silky consistency. Avoid microwave reheating alone, as it can cause the sauce to separate or dry out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While linguine works beautifully, you can swap in fettuccine, penne, or even spaghetti. Just be sure to cook to al dente and adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half with a bit of cream cheese or mascarpone to maintain richness, though the sauce will be slightly less thick and indulgent.

How spicy is this dish?

The Cajun seasoning gives it a noticeable but balanced kick. You can adjust the amount of seasoning to your taste or add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like it extra spicy.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, the components can be cooked ahead and stored separately. Bring everything together and warm gently just before serving for best results.

What cheese can I use if I don’t have Parmesan?

Pecorino Romano or Asiago are great alternatives that provide a similar salty, tangy flavor.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about this Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Mozzarella Sauce that brings together bold spices, rich creaminess, and comforting pasta in one delicious package. I encourage you to try making it soon—you might just find it becomes your new go-to meal for feeding family or impressing friends! Once you taste this combination, it’s impossible not to come back for more.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Mozzarella Sauce Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 26 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Lactose

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Description

Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Mozzarella Sauce is a deliciously rich and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender Cajun-seasoned chicken breasts served over linguine in a creamy, garlicky mozzarella and Parmesan sauce, garnished with fresh parsley and basil for a burst of freshness.

Instructions

Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and evenly coat both sides with Cajun seasoning to infuse bold Southern flavors.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 5–7 minutes per side until they develop a golden crust and are cooked through. Remove the chicken and cover with foil to rest.
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook linguine until al dente, as per package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta well.
Make the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and stir, then add 1 cup of the heavy cream. Allow the mixture to simmer gently on low heat for 3–4 minutes to thicken slightly.
Incorporate Cheese and Season: Whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, slowly add the reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat every strand with the creamy Cajun sauce.
Finish and Serve: Slice the rested Cajun chicken breasts and arrange them over the coated linguine. Garnish generously with fresh parsley, basil, and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors.

Notes

For extra heat, sprinkle additional Cajun seasoning on the pasta or chicken before serving.
Reserve pasta water carefully as it helps in thinning the sauce without losing flavor.
Use fresh garlic and fresh herbs to maximize the aromatic impact in the dish.
Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Feel free to substitute linguine with fettuccine or spaghetti based on preference.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Searing, Boiling, Simmering
Cuisine: Southern American