Quick Description
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Linguine in Alfredo Sauce is a rich, comforting dish that features tender, flavorful chicken in a creamy garlic butter sauce, paired with soft linguine noodles. With just the right amount of garlic and a cheesy Alfredo sauce, this dish is perfect for dinner and sure to satisfy your cravings for comfort food.
Servings & Timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: ~30 minutes
Ingredients List
For the Chicken
- 1 pound 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 Alfredo Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Linguine
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- Water and salt for boiling pasta
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add linguine and cook according to package instructions, about 9-10 minutes, until al dente.
Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
2. Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
Reduce heat and whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce
Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet.
Toss in the cooked linguine, adding a bit of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Stir to combine everything and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes.
5. Serve
Serve the creamy garlic butter chicken with linguine immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley if desired.
Nutrition (per serving – approximate)
Calories: ~550
Protein: ~40g
Carbs: ~30g
Fat: ~35g
Fiber: ~2g
Sugar: ~2g
Benefits
- Rich & Creamy: The Alfredo sauce gives this dish a comforting, indulgent flavor.
- High in Protein: With chicken and Parmesan, this dish is packed with protein.
- Quick & Easy: Made in less than 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Comfort Food: This meal is filling, satisfying, and sure to please the whole family.
Additional Notes
- You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, more flavorful option.
- If you prefer a lower-carb option, swap the linguine with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or broccoli to add more nutrients and color.
Dietary Info
- High-Protein: Yes
- Low-Carb Option: Yes (if using zucchini noodles)
- Gluten-Free Option: Yes (with gluten-free pasta)
- Vegetarian Option: Use mushrooms instead of chicken for a vegetarian version.
Brief Introduction
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce is everything you want in a pasta dish: creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, it’s a rich, comforting meal that’s ready in just under 30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Cook linguine according to package instructions.
- Sauté chicken with seasoning until browned.
- Make the Alfredo sauce with butter, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan.
- Combine cooked chicken, linguine, and sauce.
- Serve with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs.
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
- Olive Oil: Use butter or avocado oil if preferred.
- Chicken: You can use chicken thighs for added flavor or swap for shrimp or turkey.
- Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, substitute with half-and-half or a milk alternative.
- Linguine: Any pasta works, including gluten-free varieties.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or roasted tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Spicy Option: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
- Cheesy Option: Top with extra mozzarella or cheese of choice for a cheesy bake.
Serve with:
- A side salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread or keto-friendly breadsticks.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.
FAQs
Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, any pasta works, such as fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then reheat and combine with the pasta when ready to serve.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or sauté a chopped jalapeño with the garlic.
Optional Personal Story
I created this recipe on a busy weeknight when I was craving comfort food, but didn’t have a lot of time to cook. It quickly became a favorite because it’s rich, satisfying, and easy to make—perfect for when you want something indulgent without a long cooking time!
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Make this creamy, cheesy, and satisfying Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce for your next dinner—quick, comforting, and sure to be a hit!
