and Mozzarella Recipe
If you are craving a dish that brings creamy indulgence, a smoky kick, and irresistible gooey cheese all in one, this recipe for Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Parmesan, Garlic, and Mozzarella is exactly what you need. The blend of tender Cajun-spiced chicken strips swimming in a luscious sauce made rich with Parmesan, garlic, and mozzarella creates a comforting meal perfect for any day you want a flavorful escape. The “and Mozzarella” adds that melty, stringy texture that everyone loves, giving this hearty pasta a deliciously cheesy finish that’s pure satisfaction on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity yet bold flavors, with ingredients that come together to create a creamy, spicy, and cheesy pasta that’s packed with texture and depth. Each component plays a vital role—from the Cajun seasoning that provides a subtle spice to the mozzarella that brings that perfect melty quality.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Sliced into strips for even cooking and perfect bite-sized pieces.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness and helps sear the chicken beautifully.
- Butter: Infuses richness in both the chicken and sauce, creating a velvety texture.
- Cajun seasoning: The star spice blend for that signature smoky, slightly spicy flavor.
- Smoked paprika: Enhances the smoky aroma and deepens the color of the chicken.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
- Pasta (rotini, twisted, or penne): Holds the sauce beautifully with plenty of nooks for cheese and seasoning to cling.
- Garlic: Minced fresh garlic adds a punch of aroma and flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- Chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth to the sauce without overpowering it.
- Heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and rich.
- Cream cheese: Provides a silky smooth base for the sauce and adds tangy creaminess.
- Mozzarella: The key ingredient “and Mozzarella” that melts into gooey perfection.
- Parmesan: Offers savory, nutty notes that complement the creaminess and spice.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like an extra kick of heat.
- Fresh parsley (optional garnish): Brightens the dish visually and adds a fresh herbal note.
How to Make and Mozzarella
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the pasta in a large pot of salted water until it reaches al dente texture, which means it should be firm but not hard in the center. Before draining, be sure to reserve half a cup of the pasta water. This starchy water is a secret weapon to loosen the sauce later, helping it cling beautifully to every bite of pasta.
Step 2: Cook the Cajun Chicken
Pat your chicken strips dry with paper towels, then toss them with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper for a perfectly seasoned bite. Heat olive oil and butter together in a skillet over medium-high heat to create a rich cooking fat blend. Sear the chicken strips for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken to a plate and set aside to rest while you prepare the sauce.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce and Mozzarella
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and sauté the minced garlic in the remaining butter. Just 30 seconds is enough to release that fragrant garlic aroma without burning it. Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, giving the pan a good stir to combine those wonderfully rich liquids. Whisk in the cream cheese slowly until you get a smooth, silky sauce. This is where the magic of “and Mozzarella” happens—sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella along with the grated Parmesan, stirring continuously until the sauce is luxuriously creamy and velvety. If you enjoy a little heat, add red pepper flakes to taste.
Step 4: Combine Pasta & Chicken
Return your cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently so every piece is dressed in that decadent cheese sauce. Then fold the golden Cajun chicken strips back in carefully, ensuring a beautiful balance of creamy sauce and perfectly spiced chicken in every forkful. If the sauce feels a bit too thick, pour in some of the reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach the ideal consistency that coats the pasta without overwhelming it.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Plate your creamy Cajun chicken pasta hot from the skillet, and don’t be shy with garnishes. Fresh parsley adds a lovely pop of green and a mild herbaceous note, while an extra sprinkle of Parmesan delivers that punch of umami we all crave. A light dusting of Cajun seasoning over the top elevates the presentation and lets the bold flavors shine through.
How to Serve and Mozzarella
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley not only brighten the dish but also provide a delightful contrast to the richness of the sauce. For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle on some more grated Parmesan or a few extra shreds of mozzarella just before serving; it makes the dish look irresistible and adds layers of flavor and texture.
Side Dishes
This creamy and Mozzarella-packed pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides like a simple green salad tossed with vinaigrette, or grilled vegetables to add a little crunch and freshness that balances the richness. Garlic bread or crunchy baguette slices also make an excellent side, perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special dinner or family gathering, consider serving the pasta in individual shallow bowls with a generous sprinkle of fresh herbs and a light drizzle of olive oil. You could also bake the assembled pasta briefly with extra mozzarella on top for a bubbly, golden crust that changes up the texture beautifully. Presentation is all about making the and Mozzarella star even more inviting!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The creamy sauce can thicken as it chills, so it’s best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days to keep the flavors fresh and the texture tender without drying out.
Freezing
While this pasta tastes best fresh, you can freeze any leftover portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. When freezing, try to avoid adding the fresh garnish so you can add it fresh when reheating. Keep in mind that the texture of the cheese sauce might change slightly after freezing.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently over medium-low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water if the sauce looks too thick or stiff. Stir frequently to keep the sauce smooth and make sure the chicken reheats evenly without drying out. Alternatively, microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between to maintain that luscious creaminess and “and Mozzarella” stretch.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella?
Absolutely! While mozzarella lends that iconic meltiness, you can substitute it with provolone or fontina for similar gooey textures. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile may shift slightly.
Is this dish spicy?
The Cajun seasoning gives a mild to moderate kick, but you can adjust heat by adding more or less red pepper flakes according to your preference. For a milder version, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms or roasted bell peppers and keep all the cheesy goodness intact for a satisfying vegetarian option.
What pasta shape works best for creamy and Mozzarella sauces?
Pasta shapes with twists or tubes like rotini, penne, or fusilli are perfect because they catch the creamy sauce and cheese in their curves, delivering maximum flavor in every bite.
How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?
Always stir the cheese in over low to medium heat and avoid boiling the sauce after adding cheese. Slow, gentle melting helps keep the sauce smooth and creamy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something simply irresistible about a dish that so effortlessly combines spice, creaminess, and that wonderfully melty essence of and Mozzarella. This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and comfort to your table in every cheesy bite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just indulging in a tasty solo meal, don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try — it’s pure joy in a bowl!
