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Grandma’s Corn Chowder

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Garlic Cajun Chicken with Cheesy Mozzarella Linguine features tender Cajun-seasoned chicken slices seared to golden perfection, then tossed with linguine in a creamy, garlicky mozzarella sauce. Bold, comforting, and ready in 30 minutes, it’s perfect for any night of the week.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 1.25 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
  • 12 ounces linguine pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (low-moisture)
  • ½ cup heavy cream or whole milk
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • ¼ cup reserved pasta water (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a bowl, toss chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and sear 3–4 minutes per side until cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
  4. Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 2 tablespoons butter and garlic to skillet. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour in heavy cream or milk, stirring constantly. Simmer gently (do not boil).
  6. Add mozzarella cheese gradually, stirring until fully melted and smooth. Thin sauce with reserved pasta water if needed.
  7. Return chicken and linguine to skillet. Toss to coat in sauce and combine evenly.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional Cajun spice, salt, or pepper.
  9. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Use low-moisture mozzarella for a smooth, non-watery sauce.
  • Don’t boil the sauce after adding cream to avoid curdling.
  • Thin sliced chicken cooks quickly — avoid overcooking.
  • Add sautéed vegetables for extra nutrition and color.
  • Use fresh shredded cheese for a smoother melt.

Nutrition