Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce

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When creamy meets savory, magic happens—and this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce is the delicious proof. Perfectly seasoned chicken is pan-seared to golden perfection, paired with rich and creamy Alfredo-coated linguine that melts in your mouth. Every forkful is a bite of comfort food heaven, ideal for a cozy night in or impressing guests without breaking a sweat.

This dish balances bold garlic butter flavors with smooth Parmesan-laced pasta, giving you a restaurant-worthy meal right from your kitchen. If you’re a fan of creamy pasta or juicy garlic chicken, this combo will hit every note. It’s indulgent without being fussy—a true weeknight hero.


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

  • Flavor-Packed: Garlic butter chicken brings smoky, caramelized depth that complements the silky Alfredo.
  • Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will go back for seconds.
  • One-Pan Wonder: The chicken cooks quickly and the Alfredo sauce comes together in minutes.
  • Date Night Ready: Looks impressive but is simple enough for any cook to master.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment:

  • Cast Iron or Nonstick Skillet: Ensures even searing of chicken, creating that golden-brown crust.
  • Large Pot: For boiling the linguine to al dente perfection.
  • Tongs & Spatula: Crucial for turning the chicken without losing juices.
  • Microplane or Grater: To freshly grate Parmesan, which makes a massive difference in the Alfredo sauce.
  • Colander: For draining pasta without overcooking.
  • Whisk: Helps you achieve a velvety, lump-free sauce.

Using the right tools ensures a smoother cooking experience and enhances the final result, especially with textures like seared meat and creamy sauces.


Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce

  • Chicken Breast or Thighs: Juicy and protein-rich, they form the flavorful, golden-seared base of this dish.
  • Salt & Pepper: Enhances natural flavors and ensures balanced seasoning.
  • Garlic (Minced): Brings bold, aromatic intensity that defines garlic butter.
  • Butter: The hero of the sauce base, adds richness and deep flavor to the chicken.
  • Olive Oil: Helps with even searing and prevents butter from burning.
  • Linguine Pasta: Wide enough to carry the creamy Alfredo sauce beautifully.
  • Heavy Cream: Provides the rich, luscious base of the Alfredo.
  • Parmesan Cheese (Freshly Grated): Melts smoothly into the sauce for a nutty, salty depth.
  • Parsley (Optional): Adds a touch of color and a fresh, herbal finish.
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How To Make the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper. In a hot skillet with olive oil and butter, sear the chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside and keep warm.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

Cook the linguine in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, add a bit more butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, whisking gently, then add grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Add the drained linguine to the Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat evenly, using a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to thin the sauce.

Step 5: Plate and Serve

Arrange the creamy linguine on a large serving platter, then top with the garlic butter chicken. Garnish with parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.


How to Serve and Store Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine

This dish is best served immediately while hot, with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan on top. Pair it with a light side salad or roasted vegetables to round out the meal.

For storing leftovers, place the chicken and pasta in separate airtight containers to keep textures fresh. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat pasta on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce, and warm chicken in a skillet or oven to retain juiciness.


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

Yes, but making your own gives it a fresher, creamier, and more flavorful finish.

What cut of chicken is best?

Boneless, skinless thighs offer more flavor and stay juicy, but breasts work great too.

Can I make this dish ahead?

You can prep the chicken and sauce in advance, then reheat and toss with fresh pasta right before serving.

What pasta can I substitute for linguine?

Fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne will hold the sauce well.

How do I keep the Alfredo sauce from clumping?

Use low heat and whisk continuously. Adding cheese gradually and freshly grating it helps create a smooth blend.

Is it okay to freeze this meal?

Freezing is not ideal due to the dairy-based sauce, which may separate when reheated. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.


Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If you’re loving the flavor combo in this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine, here are some more delicious dishes to explore next:


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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time. Find more easy and creamy dishes on my Pinterest Kitchen By Kate.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the garlic? Or maybe add mushrooms or spinach? I love seeing your twists!


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Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce


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  • Author: Kate Walton
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This creamy garlic butter chicken and linguine in Alfredo sauce recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor to your dinner table with juicy seared chicken, rich homemade Alfredo, and perfectly cooked pasta. A comforting garlic chicken pasta dish perfect for weeknight meals or entertaining guests. Ideal for lovers of creamy sauces, garlic, and easy chicken pasta recipes.


Ingredients

1.5 lbs chicken breasts or thighs, boneless and skinless

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

4 tablespoons butter, divided

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

12 oz linguine pasta

1.5 cups heavy cream

1.25 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)


Instructions

1. Season chicken with salt and pepper.

2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons butter and olive oil.

3. Sear chicken until golden brown and cooked through (about 5–6 minutes per side). Set aside.

4. Boil linguine in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.

5. In the same skillet, melt remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.

6. Pour in heavy cream, whisking gently. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until smooth.

7. Add drained linguine to the sauce and toss to coat. Use pasta water if needed to loosen sauce.

8. Slice or cube chicken, then arrange over the pasta.

9. Garnish with chopped parsley and more Parmesan. Serve hot.

Notes

Use fresh Parmesan, not the pre-shredded kind, to ensure the sauce is smooth and creamy.

To avoid curdling, keep the cream over low heat while adding cheese.

Add a splash of pasta water to reheat leftovers smoothly.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 780
  • Sugar: 2
  • Sodium: 520
  • Fat: 44
  • Saturated Fat: 24
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18
  • Trans Fat: 0.5
  • Carbohydrates: 52
  • Fiber: 2
  • Protein: 45
  • Cholesterol: 195

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