Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine is the kind of comfort food that wraps you in a warm hug. Imagine perfectly seared chicken bites, golden and crisp on the edges, nestled beside a creamy bed of parmesan linguine infused with hints of garlic and butter. It’s rich, indulgent, and exactly what you want after a long day.

Whether you’re making this for a romantic dinner, feeding a hungry family, or treating yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, this dish delivers. The contrast between the savory garlic chicken and the silkiness of the cheesy pasta creates a balance that’s satisfying and downright crave-worthy.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine

Full-flavored simplicity: You get maximum taste with minimal ingredients.
Quick but luxurious: From stovetop to table in under 40 minutes.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight or a weekend splurge.
Flexible: Easily customizable with your favorite herbs or a splash of cream.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Getting this dish right is all about good prep and using the proper tools:

Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy Pan: Essential for achieving that golden sear on the chicken. The even heat distribution helps lock in flavor.
Large Pot: You’ll need this to cook the linguine until al dente.
Microplane or Grater: For freshly grating parmesan – a key to that melty, creamy sauce.
Tongs and Whisk: Use tongs to gently toss the pasta in the sauce, and a whisk to make sure the parmesan blends smoothly without clumping.
Sharp Chef’s Knife: Crucial for cubing the chicken into even bites that cook evenly.

Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine

Chicken Breast: The star of the dish. Cubed and seared for a tender yet crisp bite.
Linguine: The perfect pasta choice for capturing that rich parmesan sauce.
Butter: Forms the base of the sauce and adds silky richness.
Garlic: Brings deep aroma and flavor that defines the entire dish.
Heavy Cream: Creates a luscious sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for a sharp, nutty flavor that melts into a smooth sauce.
Olive Oil: Used for searing the chicken to perfection.
Salt & Pepper: For seasoning each element to bring out its best.
Parsley (optional): A fresh finish to brighten each bite.

How To Make the Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken breast, season with salt and pepper, and sear until golden brown on all sides. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Linguine

Boil water in a large pot, add a pinch of salt, and cook the linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve a bit of pasta water and drain the rest.

Step 3: Create the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce the heat to medium. Melt the butter, then add minced garlic. Cook until fragrant – about 1 minute.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Slowly whisk in the freshly grated parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the seared chicken to the skillet. Add the cooked linguine and a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss everything to coat evenly in the sauce. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Plate the pasta and top with extra parmesan and parsley. Serve hot and creamy!

How to Serve and Store Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine

Serve this dish straight from the skillet to the plate while it’s piping hot. A sprinkle of parmesan and chopped parsley adds the final gourmet touch. Pair with crusty garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce. Freezing isn’t recommended due to the dairy content which may separate when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this gluten-free?

Swap out the regular linguine for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Everything else in the dish is naturally gluten-free.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Thighs will give you a juicier bite and a richer flavor.

Is there a way to lighten this dish up?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and go lighter on the butter. You could also add steamed spinach or broccoli to boost the nutrition.

What other cheeses can I try?

Romano or Asiago make great alternatives or additions to parmesan if you want to deepen the flavor.

How do I avoid clumpy cheese in the sauce?

Grate cheese fresh and whisk it in slowly while the sauce is hot but not boiling. This ensures a smooth blend.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken and boil the pasta a few hours early. Reheat the sauce and toss everything together right before serving for the best texture.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If you loved this garlic butter chicken linguine, you’ll want to try these next:

Golden Crispy Chicken with Parmesan Mushroom Sauce for earthy comfort.
Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti when you’re craving creamy and bold.
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese with a spicy-sweet twist.
Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps if you prefer a handheld version of creamy chicken.
Bang Bang Chicken Recipe for something crispy and saucy with a kick.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go heavy on the garlic or sneak in some spinach? Did you spice up the sauce? I love seeing your kitchen twists.

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