Name: Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; 12 oz linguine pasta; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cups heavy cream; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and black pepper to taste; 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional); 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish); 0.25 cup reserved pasta water (optional)

Are you ready to impress your family and friends with a restaurant-quality meal that won’t take all evening to prepare? This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce is not just another dinner idea; it’s a dream come true for those craving indulgent, flavor-packed comfort food. The combination of perfectly seared garlic chicken and luscious Alfredo-covered linguine delivers a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Perfect for everything from a quick weeknight meal to a sumptuous dinner party, this dish highlights the beauty of simple yet rich ingredients. You’ll be savoring every bite, and your guests will be asking for seconds!

The magic of this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine lies in its incredible flavor profile and creamy texture. The marriage of garlic, butter, and heavy cream creates a velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the linguine, while the well-seasoned chicken adds a savory depth that’s simply irresistible. Cooking this dish not only fills your kitchen with an alluring aroma but also offers the joy of gathering around the table with loved ones for a hearty meal. Plus, it’s easy to customize, so feel free to add your favorite vegetables or herbs!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine

Mouth-Watering Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and cream provides a rich and savory taste that elevates this dish to gourmet status.
Comforting & Satisfying: The creamy Alfredo sauce and tender chicken create a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Quick & Easy: With a prep time of just 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
Impressive Presentation: With its beautiful plating and garnishes, this dish is guaranteed to wow your guests!
Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit your personal taste by adding seasonal veggies or spices.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To ensure your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine is a total success, start by prepping your kitchen. Gather all necessary tools, including a large pot for boiling pasta, a skillet for cooking the chicken, and a saucepan for making the Alfredo sauce. Having a cutting board and sharp knife on hand will simplify your garlic and chicken prep, allowing for quick and efficient cooking.

Before you start, make sure that your chicken is thawed if you’ve had it in the freezer and pat it dry with paper towels. This will help achieve that perfect golden sear when cooked. You’ll also want to measure out your ingredients ahead of time, especially the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, as they are essential for that rich sauce. And of course, don’t forget to have fresh parsley on hand for garnish—it adds a beautiful pop of color as well as fresh flavor to the finished dish.

Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
12 oz linguine pasta
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cups heavy cream
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
0.25 cup reserved pasta water (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by creating a flavorful marinade that’s going to elevate your chicken to new heights. In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken breast into this mixture and ensure that all sides are fully coated. For the best flavor, let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. If time allows, consider marinating for a few hours or overnight for deeper flavor absorption.

Step 2: Boil the Linguine

While your chicken is marinating, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. It should be tender but still have a slight bite. Before draining, don’t forget to reserve 1/4 cup of that starchy pasta water—it’s a secret weapon for loosening your Alfredo sauce later if needed. Once you’ve set the pasta aside, drain it well and keep it warm.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the marinated chicken. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes per side or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and delicious.

Step 4: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it until it becomes fragrant, which should be about 1 minute. Carefully pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously as it comes to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low to maintain that simmer. Then, gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring it melts completely into the cream. This creamy concoction will thicken beautifully, so keep cooking for 3-5 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency. Season with additional salt, pepper, and nutmeg if you’re using it.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Time to bring your cooked linguine into the mix! Add the drained pasta directly into the Alfredo sauce, tossing gently until every strand is coated in that dreamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, drizzle in some of the reserved pasta water to achieve the perfect consistency. The pasta should be luxuriously enveloped in the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Plate & Serve

To serve, divide the creamy linguine between plates and top generously with the seared garlic butter chicken. Don’t forget to garnish with chopped fresh parsley to add both color and a fresh flavor note. Serve immediately and enjoy as the deliciousness of the flavors unfolds!

Variations

Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp, scallops, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Vegetables: Add in sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or steamed broccoli for added nutrition and vibrant color.
Spices: Experiment with different spice blends such as Cajun seasoning for a kick or Italian herbs for an aromatic twist.

Cooking Notes

Make sure to keep an eye on the pasta while it’s cooking; overcooked noodles can be mushy.
If the sauce thickens too much before serving, don’t hesitate to add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a light green salad dressed in a lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
Add some garlic bread or crusty bread on the side to soak up that creamy sauce.

Tips

Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese will make a big difference in texture and flavor compared to pre-grated options.
For extra flavor, consider roasting garlic to use in the sauce; it brings a sweet and mellow depth.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 720 per serving
Protein: 45g
Sodium: 860mg

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and Alfredo sauce earlier in the day and simply reheat before serving. Cook the pasta separately and combine everything just before eating for best results.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cornstarch for the thickening effect, though this might alter the richness slightly.

How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water if necessary.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! You can use your favorite gluten-free pasta in place of regular linguine, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful dish.

Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce is the quintessential comfort food that will leave everyone asking for the recipe! Rich, creamy, and flavorful, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion—whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or impressing guests with your culinary prowess. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the ingredients and make this recipe your own—add vegetables, swap proteins, or elevate the flavors with different spices. As you dive into the deliciousness, remember to share your experience and adaptations in the comments below. Try this recipe today for a meal that’s not just dinner, but an experience that brings joy to the table!