Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce

Save this recipe on:

Rich, creamy, and packed with flavor — this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce brings restaurant-quality dining right into your kitchen. Imagine tender, seared chicken breasts sliced and laid atop a bed of perfectly cooked linguine, all drenched in a velvety Alfredo sauce infused with the deep aroma of garlic and the warmth of butter. Each bite balances the richness of the sauce with the juiciness of the chicken, making it an irresistible dish for any occasion.

Whether you’re preparing a comforting dinner for your family or impressing guests at a dinner party, this dish delivers on both flavor and presentation. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the natural flavors to shine, while the creamy Alfredo sauce ties everything together into a luxurious experience. It’s a meal you’ll find yourself returning to again and again.

---

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

This dish offers more than just taste — it’s the perfect combination of comfort, elegance, and ease:

• Rich & Velvety: The Alfredo sauce clings to every strand of linguine and slice of chicken, delivering creamy goodness in each mouthful.
• Simple Ingredients: No fancy shopping list here. Basic pantry staples transform into a dish that tastes gourmet.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults, it’s a reliable crowd-pleaser.
• Quick to Prepare: From start to finish, you can have this ready in under 40 minutes — ideal for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Add mushrooms, spinach, or even sun-dried tomatoes for a personal twist.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Reheats beautifully, making tomorrow’s lunch just as satisfying.

---

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Crafting Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce is a joyful process when you’re equipped with the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need and why each is important:

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan
  Essential for searing the chicken to golden perfection and for preparing the Alfredo sauce. A wide pan ensures even cooking and room to stir the sauce without splashing.
• Large Pot for Boiling Pasta
  You’ll want a big pot to give the linguine plenty of space to cook evenly and prevent sticking.
• Tongs or Slotted Spatula
  These help you turn the chicken easily and safely without tearing it apart.
• Sharp Knife & Cutting Board
  For slicing the chicken breasts and mincing the garlic — sharp tools ensure precision and ease.
• Whisk
  Crucial for blending cream, butter, and cheese smoothly into a luscious sauce.
• Colander
  For draining the cooked linguine without losing any precious strands.

---

Preparation Tips

Achieving the best version of this dish is all about the details. Here are some helpful tips to set you up for success:

• Pound Chicken Evenly
  If your chicken breasts are thick, gently pound them to an even thickness. This ensures uniform cooking and keeps the meat juicy.
• Salt the Pasta Water Generously
  Seasoning the boiling water well (it should taste like the sea) adds flavor to the linguine.
• Use Fresh Garlic
  Freshly minced garlic delivers a more robust and aromatic flavor to the sauce.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken
  Aim for a golden crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. Internal temperature should hit 165°F (74°C).
• Reserve Pasta Water
  Save a cup of the pasta cooking water — it’s liquid gold that can help adjust the consistency of your Alfredo sauce.
• Add Cheese Gradually
  Slowly whisk in the Parmesan to avoid clumps and create a smooth sauce.

---

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this indulgent dish to life. Most of these items are kitchen staples, making it an easy go-to meal:

For the Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  Sliced in half horizontally for quicker, even cooking.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  Adds depth of flavor to the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  A blend of herbs that complements the creamy sauce.
• Salt & black pepper to taste
  Essential for seasoning.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
  For searing the chicken to a beautiful golden finish.

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  The rich, creamy base for the sauce.
• 5–6 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  The star ingredient that infuses the sauce with aroma and flavor.
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
  Creates a luxurious, velvety texture.
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  Melts beautifully into the sauce for a nutty, savory note.
• Salt & pepper to taste
  For seasoning and balance.
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional but recommended)
  Enhances the creaminess with a subtle warmth.

For the Linguine:

• 12 ounces linguine
  The perfect pasta choice for catching all that delicious sauce.
• Salt
  For seasoning the pasta water.

Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
  Adds color and a hint of freshness to the final dish.

---

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Start by slicing each chicken breast in half horizontally to create four thinner cutlets.
Pat them dry with paper towels — this helps them sear beautifully.

Season both sides with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

---

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the chicken cutlets and cook for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F / 74°C).

Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.

---

Step 3: Cook the Linguine

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Before draining, reserve 1 cup of pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.

---

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce heat to medium and add 4 tablespoons butter.

Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Pour in 1 ½ cups heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Whisk continuously to blend.

---

Step 5: Add Parmesan and Season

Gradually whisk in 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a handful at a time, until fully melted and smooth.

Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using).

If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

---

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked linguine to the Alfredo sauce and toss to coat evenly.

Slice the seared chicken into strips and arrange on top of the pasta.

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness!

---

Notes

• Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents, which can cause the sauce to turn grainy. Freshly grated Parmesan ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
• Control the heat: Keep the Alfredo sauce on a gentle simmer — boiling can cause it to separate.
• Reserve pasta water: Adding a splash of pasta water can help thin out the sauce if it becomes too thick after combining with the pasta.
• Taste and adjust: Always taste your sauce and adjust seasoning as needed — sometimes a touch more salt or pepper makes all the difference.
• Double the recipe: If cooking for a crowd, this recipe doubles beautifully!

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the chicken: Chicken breasts cook quickly, especially when sliced thin. Keep a close eye to avoid drying them out.
• Burning the garlic: Garlic cooks fast! Sauté just until fragrant; burnt garlic will make the sauce taste bitter.
• Boiling the cream: High heat can cause the cream to break. A gentle simmer is key.
• Skipping the pasta water: The starch in reserved pasta water helps bind the sauce to the linguine — don’t skip this step!
• Adding cheese too quickly: Whisk the Parmesan in gradually; adding too much at once can lead to clumps.
• Undercooking or overcooking the pasta: Aim for al dente so the pasta holds up well when mixed with the sauce.
• Using low-fat cream substitutes: For a truly rich Alfredo, stick with heavy cream — lower-fat options won’t yield the same luscious result.
• Neglecting garnish: That sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a lovely pop of color and freshness — don’t leave it out!

---

What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce?

Balancing this rich and creamy pasta dish with complementary sides will create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to serve alongside:

8 Recommendations

1. Garlic Bread

Crispy on the outside, buttery and garlicky on the inside — perfect for soaking up extra Alfredo sauce.

2. Simple Green Salad

A light salad with mixed greens, arugula, and a bright vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pasta.

3. Roasted Asparagus

Adds a touch of earthy sweetness and crisp-tender texture.

4. Steamed Broccoli

A classic pairing with creamy pasta that also adds vibrant color and nutrients.

5. Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing counterpoint.

6. Sautéed Spinach

Quick and easy to prepare, spinach brings both color and a subtle bitter note that complements the creaminess.

7. Grilled Zucchini

Lightly charred zucchini ribbons or rounds provide a smoky, fresh contrast.

8. White Wine

A crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the richness and enhances the flavors of the dish.

---

Storage Instructions

Proper storage ensures your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce remains just as delightful when reheated:

• Refrigeration:
  Allow leftovers to cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheating:
  Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce as needed.
  Alternatively, microwave in short bursts (30–40 seconds), stirring between each interval for even warming.
• Freezing:
  Not recommended. The Alfredo sauce may separate and turn grainy upon thawing due to the high dairy content.

---

Estimated Nutrition

Please note that values may vary depending on exact ingredients and serving sizes. The following estimate is per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: ~680 kcal
• Protein: ~35 g
• Carbohydrates: ~48 g
• Fat: ~38 g
  • Saturated Fat: ~20 g
• Cholesterol: ~160 mg
• Fiber: ~2 g
• Sugar: ~3 g
• Sodium: ~600 mg
• Calcium: ~300 mg

---

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While linguine works wonderfully, you can also use fettuccine, spaghetti, penne, or even pappardelle. Choose your favorite pasta shape.

---

2. Can I substitute milk for the heavy cream?

Technically yes, but it will result in a thinner, less creamy sauce. For best results, stick with heavy cream. If needed, you can mix whole milk with a bit of cream cheese for a thicker texture.

---

3. How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply substitute the linguine with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Be sure to check that your Parmesan cheese is gluten-free as well.

---

4. What proteins can I use instead of chicken?

Shrimp, scallops, or even grilled salmon make excellent substitutes. For a vegetarian version, consider sautéed mushrooms or tofu.

---

5. Can I make the Alfredo sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce up to a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore its smoothness.

---

6. How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Stir in sautéed spinach, steamed broccoli, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers when combining the pasta with the sauce.

---

7. What’s the best way to avoid a grainy Alfredo sauce?

Use freshly grated Parmesan and add it gradually over low heat. Avoid boiling the sauce and whisk continuously for a smooth finish.

---

8. Can I freeze this dish?

It’s not recommended to freeze due to the high dairy content, which can cause the sauce to separate when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days.

---

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce is a truly satisfying dish that combines simplicity with indulgence. With its tender golden chicken, rich garlicky Alfredo sauce, and silky pasta, it’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.

Perfect for weeknight comfort or special occasions, this recipe is versatile, customizable, and guaranteed to impress. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy an unforgettable dining experience right at home. Bon appétit!

---

Print

Save this recipe on: