Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine has become my absolute go-to for a comforting weeknight meal. I remember the first time I successfully recreated this dish; the aroma of garlic and Cajun spices filled my kitchen, promising something truly special. My family devoured every last bite, and I knew I had found a new favorite. This creamy mozzarella chicken pasta is so rich and satisfying, with perfectly tender chicken nestled in a luscious, cheesy sauce. If you’ve ever wondered how to make creamy mozzarella chicken linguine that tastes like it came from a fancy Italian restaurant, you’re in the right place. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine
This dish is an absolute winner for so many reasons. It’s incredibly flavorful, with tender, spiced chicken and a luxuriously creamy sauce that coats every strand of linguine. You’ll love how quick it is to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Incredible taste: A perfect balance of savory Cajun spices, rich garlic butter, and melted mozzarella.
- Quick prep time: Ready in about 35 minutes total, making it an easy weeknight dinner.
- Family-favorite: Even picky eaters adore this comforting and cheesy chicken linguine recipe.
- Budget-friendly: Uses common ingredients you likely already have on hand.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable for different spice levels or dietary needs.
- Impressive results: It looks and tastes like a gourmet meal, but it’s surprisingly simple.
- The ultimate comfort food: This cheesy chicken linguine recipe is pure indulgence.
Ingredients for Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine
Gathering these ingredients is the first step to creating a fantastic linguine with mozzarella chicken dish. You’ll need the star of the show, chicken breasts, which we’ll slice in half lengthwise for quicker cooking and a more even distribution in the pasta. For that signature kick, we’re using Cajun seasoning, plus paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to season the chicken.
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced in half lengthwise – this ensures they cook through evenly
- 1 ½ tsp Cajun seasoning – for that spicy, savory flavor
- ½ tsp paprika – adds color and a mild sweetness
- ½ tsp garlic powder – boosts the garlic flavor
- Salt and pepper, to taste – essential for enhancing all the flavors
- 2 tbsp olive oil – for searing the chicken
- 1 lb linguine pasta – the perfect base for our creamy sauce
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter – the foundation for our rich sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – brings that irresistible garlic aroma
- 1 cup heavy cream – makes the sauce luxuriously creamy
- ½ cup chicken broth – adds depth and moisture to the sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese – for that gooey, cheesy pull
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds a salty, nutty finish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – for a touch of freshness and color
How to Make Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine
Making this easy creamy chicken linguine is simpler than you might think! Let’s get started.
- Step 1: First, prepare your chicken. Season both sides of the sliced chicken breasts generously with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This initial seasoning is key for building flavor.
- Step 2: Heat the 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes per side, until they’re beautifully golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- Step 3: While the chicken rests, cook your linguine. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the 1 lb linguine pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, be sure to reserve about 1 cup of that starchy pasta water – it’s liquid gold for our sauce! Drain the pasta.
- Step 4: Now, let’s make that luscious sauce. In the same skillet you used for the chicken (no need to clean it – those browned bits add flavor!), melt the 4 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the 4 cloves minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s wonderfully fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Step 5: Pour in the 1 cup heavy cream and the ½ cup chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. You’ll see it start to thicken slightly.
- Step 6: Reduce the heat to low. Gradually stir in the 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese and the ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring gently until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth and wonderfully creamy. This is where the magic happens for your easy creamy chicken linguine!
- Step 7: If your sauce seems a little too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired creamy consistency.
- Step 8: Slice the cooked chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and add them directly into the skillet with the sauce.
- Step 9: Finally, add the drained linguine to the skillet. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are thoroughly coated in the glorious, cheesy sauce. This step truly makes it an easy creamy chicken linguine.
- Step 10: Serve your magnificent creamy mozzarella chicken linguine immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine
I’ve learned a few tricks to make this creamy mozzarella chicken linguine absolutely perfect every time. Following these simple tips will elevate your dish from good to unforgettable.
- Don’t skip searing the chicken! Getting a nice golden-brown crust on the chicken before adding it to the sauce adds so much depth of flavor.
- Use good quality mozzarella. A fresh, low-moisture mozzarella will melt much better and give you that glorious cheese pull.
- Taste and adjust seasoning! The Cajun seasoning can vary in saltiness, so always taste the sauce before serving and add more salt or pepper if needed.
What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine?
The secret is building layers of flavor. Searing the chicken properly, using fresh garlic, and reserving that starchy pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency are key. This ensures your chicken mozzarella pasta dish is rich and perfectly balanced. For more tips on building flavor, check out this guide on making delicious meals.
Can I make Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine ahead of time?
You can prep most components ahead of time. Cook the chicken and make the sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, then toss with freshly cooked linguine just before serving for the best texture. If you’re looking for other make-ahead meal ideas, consider these latest recipes.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine?
Avoid overcooking the chicken – it can become dry. Also, don’t boil the sauce vigorously after adding the cheese, as it can cause the mozzarella to break. Finally, be sure to reserve pasta water to achieve the perfect sauce consistency. Learning about proper cooking techniques can help prevent these issues; for instance, understanding how to steam vegetables perfectly can be a useful skill.
Best Ways to Serve Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine
This rich creamy mozzarella chicken linguine is a star on its own, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement its robust flavors. For a truly comforting meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette. The crisp greens cut through the richness of the pasta wonderfully.
Another fantastic option is some crusty garlic bread. It’s perfect for soaking up any extra creamy sauce left on the plate – a must-have for any cheesy chicken pasta with linguine! If you’re looking for something heartier or perhaps a different take on the dish, you could even adapt it into a mozzarella chicken pasta bake by topping it with extra cheese and breadcrumbs and baking until bubbly and golden. This dish is truly versatile for any dinner occasion. For more pasta inspiration, check out this cheesy garlic butter linguine pasta recipe.
Nutrition Facts for Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine
This decadent creamy mozzarella chicken linguine is a satisfying meal. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving, keeping in mind that exact values can vary based on ingredient brands and preparation specifics.
- Calories: 750
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine
This delicious creamy chicken linguine in creamy sauce is perfect for leftovers, but knowing how to store and reheat it properly is key. Once you’ve finished enjoying this delightful dish, let it cool down for about 30 minutes to an hour before storing. Transfer the leftovers into airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days.
If you want to store it for longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, the best method is on the stovetop. Gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth if the sauce seems too thick. You can also reheat it in the microwave, covered, in short intervals until heated through. Enjoy your perfectly reheated creamy mozzarella chicken linguine!
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine
What makes this Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine so creamy?
The creaminess comes from a combination of heavy cream and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. When gently simmered, these ingredients create a luscious, velvety sauce that coats the linguine beautifully. It’s a simple technique that yields incredibly rich results, making it a truly decadent garlic butter chicken linguine. For a similar creamy experience, you might enjoy this creamy garlic butter chicken recipe.
Can I use a different type of cheese besides mozzarella?
While mozzarella provides that signature gooey pull, you can certainly experiment! Provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses would also work well. However, for the classic creamy mozzarella chicken linguine experience, mozzarella is definitely the star.
How can I make this Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine spicier?
If you love a kick, you can easily amp up the heat. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce along with the garlic, or use a spicier Cajun seasoning blend. You could also add a dash of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for an extra layer of heat in your garlic butter chicken linguine.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
If you’re out of heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half, though the sauce might be slightly less rich. Another option is to use evaporated milk, but be cautious as it can sometimes curdle if boiled too rapidly. For the best results in this creamy mozzarella chicken linguine, heavy cream is recommended.
Variations of Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine You Can Try
This delicious creamy mozzarella chicken linguine is fantastic as is, but it’s also super adaptable! If you’re looking to switch things up or cater to different tastes, try these ideas.
- Spicy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine: For those who love a bit of heat, incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the sauce when you add the garlic. Using a spicier Cajun seasoning blend will also give you a fantastic spicy mozzarella chicken linguine.
- One-Pot Wonder: To simplify cleanup, try a one-pot version! Cook the linguine directly in the skillet with the chicken, broth, and cream, adding the cheese and chicken towards the end. This makes for an incredibly easy creamy chicken linguine casserole.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers instead for a delightful vegetarian pasta dish. The creamy, cheesy sauce is still the perfect star.
- Lemon Herb Twist: Brighten up the flavor profile by adding the zest and juice of one lemon to the sauce, along with fresh basil or oregano. This offers a lovely fresh counterpoint to the richness.
Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine: 3 amazing tips
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A rich and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken seasoned with Cajun spices, served over linguine pasta in a creamy garlic butter sauce with melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced in half lengthwise
- 1 ½ tsp Cajun seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb linguine pasta
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Cook linguine pasta according to package directions in a large pot of salted water. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat to low. Gradually stir in shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Slice the cooked chicken breasts and add them to the sauce in the skillet.
- Add the drained linguine to the skillet with the sauce and chicken. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
- You can substitute other pasta shapes for linguine if preferred.
- Ensure chicken is cooked through before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Pan-Seared and Sauce-Simmered
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 750
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 150mg









