Name: Creamy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine with Garlic Mozzarella Cheese Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz fettuccine; 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter (for chicken); 3 tablespoons butter (for sauce); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 ½ cups heavy cream; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated parmesan cheese; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; ½ cup reserved pasta water (optional)

When I tell you this Creamy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine with Garlic Mozzarella Cheese Sauce will change your dinner game, I mean it. The first time I made it, I was honestly just throwing together my favorite things—spicy Cajun chicken, garlicky cream sauce, and a ridiculous amount of cheese—and what came out of that pan was nothing short of magic. The kind of magic that silences a dinner table, followed by “What is this, and can you make it again tomorrow?”

This dish has everything I crave in a comforting meal: bold seasoning, rich creamy texture, gooey cheese pulls, and tender pasta wrapped up in flavor. Whether you’re trying to impress guests, spoil yourself after a long day, or just want something that tastes like you ordered it from a top-tier bistro, this fettuccine will absolutely hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine with Garlic Mozzarella Cheese Sauce

It’s unapologetically indulgent. That rich, cheesy, garlicky sauce doesn’t hold back.
Bold Cajun flavors give the dish a spicy, smoky kick that balances beautifully with the cream.
A restaurant-style experience that’s actually easy to pull off at home.
Melty mozzarella magic—enough said.
Customizable for spice levels, pasta types, or even protein swaps.
Perfect for date nights or family dinners, this dish brings serious comfort with a gourmet feel.

What’s the Best Type of Chicken to Use for Creamy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine?

I’ve tried this with both chicken breast and chicken thighs, and honestly, both work great depending on what texture you’re going for. If you want leaner, cleaner slices that sear up beautifully, go for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They’re easy to slice and cook quickly. But if you’re all about extra juiciness and richer flavor, boneless chicken thighs will blow your mind when paired with Cajun spices and that cheesy sauce.

Either way, make sure to season the chicken generously and sear it well to lock in flavor. That golden crust is key to getting that restaurant-style bite.

Options for Substitutions

Whether you’re adjusting to dietary needs or just working with what you’ve got in your kitchen, this recipe is super flexible.

Pasta: Swap the fettuccine with linguine, tagliatelle, or even penne. If you’re gluten-free, use chickpea or rice pasta.
Protein: Try shrimp, salmon, or even grilled tofu with Cajun seasoning if you’re skipping meat.
Mozzarella: You can use provolone or Monterey Jack for similar melty texture.
Heavy cream: Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option or use coconut cream for a dairy-free version (just note the flavor will change slightly).
Butter: Olive oil works in a pinch, though the butter does add richness to the garlic sauce.
Cajun seasoning: If you’re out, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and a bit of cayenne to build your own custom blend.

Ingredients for This Creamy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine with Garlic Mozzarella Cheese Sauce

Each ingredient in this dish plays a specific role, helping to layer flavor, texture, and indulgence in every bite. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

Fettuccine: This wide, flat pasta holds onto the creamy cheese sauce like a dream. It’s the perfect base for a hearty dish like this.
Chicken breasts (or thighs): The star protein, seasoned with bold Cajun spices, bringing that smoky, spicy kick and golden sear.
Cajun seasoning: Adds heat, depth, and color to the chicken. It’s the soul of this dish.
Olive oil & butter: Used to sear the chicken and sauté the garlic—gives flavor and helps build a rich base for the sauce.
Garlic (fresh, minced): Essential for building the flavor of the sauce. It adds aroma and a gentle bite.
Heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce luxuriously rich and smooth.
Mozzarella cheese (shredded): Melts into creamy strings and gives the dish that irresistible cheesy pull.
Parmesan cheese (grated): For a salty, nutty bite that balances the creaminess of the sauce.
Fresh parsley: Chopped and stirred in at the end for a pop of color and freshness.
Salt & black pepper: For seasoning to taste.
Red pepper flakes (optional): A little extra heat if you’re craving more spice.

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry and generously coat both sides with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil and a little butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side until deeply golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.

Step 4: Melt in the Cheese

Lower the heat and gradually add mozzarella and parmesan, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, if using. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked fettuccine directly into the sauce. Toss well until the pasta is fully coated and glossy. Stir in chopped parsley and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Plate the creamy fettuccine onto serving dishes and top each with sliced Cajun chicken. Garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of parmesan for that final touch. Serve hot and enjoy the glorious cheese pull!

How Long to Cook Creamy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine

This dish comes together surprisingly fast—perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive weekend meal.

Fettuccine: 10–12 minutes (cook until al dente)
Chicken: 10–12 minutes total (about 5–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness)
Sauce: 5–7 minutes (to sauté garlic, simmer cream, and melt cheese)
Total Time: Around 30 minutes from start to finish.

It’s a quick dinner that doesn’t taste quick—and that’s the beauty of it.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine

Pound your chicken to an even thickness so it cooks evenly and gets a better sear.
Generously season the chicken. Cajun spice should be bold—not shy.
Don’t burn the garlic! Keep the heat at medium and stir constantly when sautéing.
Use fresh mozzarella if possible—it melts beautifully and stretches like a dream.
Grate your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that mess with the sauce texture.
Reserve pasta water. A splash can help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
Let the chicken rest before slicing. This helps retain juices and keeps the meat tender.
Serve immediately. The sauce is at its best when hot and melty right off the stove.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even the most indulgent dishes can go sideways with just a few missteps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making Creamy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine with Garlic Mozzarella Cheese Sauce:

Overcooking the chicken: Dry chicken will ruin the dish. Aim for a golden sear and an internal temp of 165°F—no higher.
Using low-fat dairy: This sauce needs full-fat cream for its signature richness and texture. Lighter alternatives can curdle or turn grainy.
Rushing the sauce: Let the cream simmer gently and melt the cheese gradually for a smooth, velvety finish.
Not salting your pasta water: It’s your only chance to season the noodles themselves. Don’t skip it.
Skipping the rest time: Slicing the chicken immediately after cooking will cause the juices to run out. Rest it for 5 minutes first.
Adding cold cheese straight to the sauce: Let it come to room temp or stir it in slowly to prevent clumping.

What to Serve With Creamy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine?

This pasta is rich, creamy, and filling—but it also plays well with a variety of sides that can balance or complement the flavors.

Simple Arugula or Spinach Salad

A light vinaigrette and a peppery green help cut through the richness of the sauce.

Garlic Bread or Toasted Baguette

You’ll want something to mop up that leftover cheese sauce—this is non-negotiable.

Roasted Broccoli or Asparagus

Roasted veggies add a bit of crunch and earthiness that pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta.

Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil bring a refreshing contrast to the bold Cajun flavors.

A Glass of Dry White Wine

A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay balances the spice and creaminess beautifully.

Marinated Olives or Antipasti Plate

Salty bites that work well as an appetizer or side.

Lemon-Dressed Green Beans

That touch of citrus livens up the whole meal.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy, buttery mushrooms layered with garlic make a fantastic pairing on the side.

Storage Instructions

If you somehow have leftovers (which is rare in my kitchen), don’t worry—Creamy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine reheats well with just a bit of care.

Refrigerator: Store the pasta and chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce mixed in with the pasta—it helps prevent it from drying out.
Reheating: Add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce before reheating in a skillet over low heat. Stir constantly until warmed through. You can also microwave it in 30-second bursts, stirring between each.
Freezer: Not ideal. Cream-based sauces tend to separate and lose their texture when frozen and reheated. If you must freeze it, use an airtight container and thaw in the fridge before reheating gently.

Estimated Nutrition

Please note these numbers are approximate and may vary depending on portion size, exact ingredients, and substitutions.

Serving Size: 1 generous portion (1/4 of recipe)
Calories: ~740
Protein: 45g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fat: 40g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Cholesterol: 160mg
Sodium: 780mg
Sugar: 3g
Fiber: 3g

This is definitely an indulgent meal, but worth every forkful. Want to make it lighter? Use grilled chicken breast, half-and-half instead of cream, and skip the mozzarella.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this Creamy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine?

It has a medium kick from the Cajun seasoning, but you can easily dial the heat up or down. Omit red pepper flakes for milder flavor, or add extra Cajun spice if you like it hot.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, though freshly seared chicken gives the best flavor. If you’re using rotisserie or leftover chicken, just season it lightly with Cajun spice and warm it in the sauce before serving.

What’s the best pasta alternative?

If you’re avoiding fettuccine, try linguine, penne, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist. Just make sure the noodles can handle a creamy sauce.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

You can try using unsweetened coconut cream or a plant-based heavy cream substitute along with vegan mozzarella, but note that texture and flavor may differ.

How do I keep the sauce from clumping?

Always add the cheese gradually over low heat and stir continuously. Avoid using pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.

Can I meal-prep this recipe?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can cook the pasta and chicken ahead of time. Reheat everything together with a bit of added cream to bring the sauce back to life.

What kind of Cajun seasoning should I use?

Any store-bought Cajun seasoning works, but if you want control over the heat and salt, make your own blend with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, thyme, and black pepper.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes make excellent additions. Sauté them right after the garlic before adding the cream.

Conclusion

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine with Garlic Mozzarella Cheese Sauce is comfort food that brings serious flavor. With its bold Cajun-spiced chicken, rich garlicky cream sauce, and mozzarella-stretch goodness, it’s one of those meals that tastes like you fussed for hours—but actually comes together in about 30 minutes. Whether it’s for a cozy night in, a dinner party crowd-pleaser, or just because you deserve something indulgent, this recipe is a keeper.