Looking for a rich, comforting pasta dish that’s easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough for guests? Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Linguine in Alfredo Sauce is a luscious, flavorful meal that brings together tender chicken, perfectly cooked linguine, and a velvety homemade Alfredo sauce infused with garlic and butter.
This recipe is perfect for pasta lovers craving creamy indulgence with a savory garlic punch. Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that balances richness with satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Serves 4
For the Chicken and Pasta
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 8 ounces linguine pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
For the Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 to 30 minutes
- Total time: 35 to 40 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Linguine
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, but not browned.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly, and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Stir in Italian seasoning and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Return cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with Alfredo sauce.
- Add the cooked linguine and toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad for a complete meal.
- Add steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach for extra veggies.
- Serve with a glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio to complement the creamy sauce.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 of 4 servings) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 610 |
| Protein | 42 grams |
| Total Fat | 34 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 18 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 38 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sugars | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 520 milligrams |
Key Benefits:
- High in protein from chicken, supporting muscle health and satiety.
- Rich in calcium and phosphorus from Parmesan cheese for bone strength.
- Garlic adds antioxidants and potential immune benefits.
- Moderate carbs provide sustained energy for active lifestyles.
Tips for Success
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a smoother sauce and richer flavor.
- Avoid overcooking garlic to prevent bitterness.
- Save some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency easily.
- For an extra creamy sauce, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or mascarpone.
Variations to Try
- Swap linguine for fettuccine or penne for different pasta textures.
- Add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for additional flavor.
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Add red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Linguine in Alfredo Sauce is a luscious, comforting dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors to your dinner table with ease. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions and guarantees satisfaction with every creamy, garlicky bite.