🍗 Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce
Introduction
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine is the ultimate comfort meal — rich, velvety, and full of flavor. Tender pieces of seasoned chicken are pan-seared in garlic butter and tossed with silky Alfredo sauce and linguine pasta. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to make, perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners at home.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
🐔 For the Chicken:
- 1 pound (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
🧈 For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
🍝 For the Pasta:
- 10 ounces (280 g) linguine (or any long pasta of your choice)
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil, for tossing
🌿 For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese for serving
Optional Additions
- Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli florets for extra nutrition.
- Replace chicken with shrimp or salmon for a seafood twist.
- Stir in a splash of white wine while making the sauce for depth of flavor.
Tips for Success
- Cook pasta al dente — it will continue cooking slightly in the sauce.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan — it melts smoothly and gives the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the chicken — sear until golden and juicy, not dry.
- Add pasta water if the sauce becomes too thick; it helps it cling perfectly.
- Serve immediately — creamy sauces taste best when freshly made.
Instructions
- Cook the Linguine:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package directions until al dente. Drain and toss with 1 tablespoon of butter or olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside. - Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Add to the skillet and sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. - Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and let it melt.
Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant (do not burn).
Pour in heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine.
Add Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly. - Combine Everything:
Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
Add the linguine, tossing gently until everything is evenly coated and creamy.
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until desired consistency. - Serve:
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan.
Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, garlicky masterpiece!
Description
Every bite of this dish bursts with rich, buttery flavor — the juicy chicken soaks up the creamy Alfredo sauce while the linguine carries every hint of garlic and cheese. The balance of textures — tender pasta, creamy sauce, and lightly crisped chicken — makes it an irresistible comfort food. It’s a restaurant-quality meal made effortlessly at home.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~620 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Fat | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
| Sodium | 520 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
(Values may vary based on ingredients and portion size.)
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine is proof that simple ingredients can create an unforgettable meal. The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan in a silky sauce makes it timelessly satisfying — a dish that brings warmth, flavor, and comfort to the table every time.
Recommendation
Serve this pasta with a side of garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad to balance the richness. It pairs beautifully with a glass of chardonnay or sparkling water with lemon for a lighter touch.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Though creamy and indulgent, this dish can easily be made lighter — substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, use whole wheat pasta, or add extra veggies to boost nutrition.
It’s a perfect reminder that comfort food can be balanced, nourishing, and joyful when enjoyed with mindfulness and good company. 🍝💛