Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce

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There’s something about a creamy garlic butter sauce that just brings comfort and indulgence to the table. I remember the first time I tried this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce—it was on a rainy evening, and I wanted something that felt like a warm hug. The garlic butter seared chicken, rich alfredo coating every strand of pasta, and that hint of parmesan and herbs—it’s a dish that never fails to satisfy.

I’ve since made it countless times, tweaking and perfecting the balance between the buttery sauce and the savory seared chicken. It’s now my go-to when I want something a bit decadent without being complicated. Whether you’re making dinner for two or treating yourself to a cozy solo meal, this dish brings restaurant-level comfort right into your kitchen.

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

• Rich and creamy alfredo base that clings to every strand of linguine.
• Garlic butter seared chicken that’s juicy and packed with flavor.
• Easy to prepare in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
• Flexible ingredients—use what you have and make it your own.
• Restaurant-quality results without leaving your kitchen.

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What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken?

Linguine is my top pick for this dish—it’s just the right thickness to hold onto that velvety Alfredo sauce without getting lost in it. But don’t feel limited. Fettuccine, tagliatelle, or even spaghetti can step in confidently. If you’re going for a lighter version, angel hair is a decent swap, though it’s more delicate and won’t carry as much sauce with each bite.

If you’re feeling adventurous, pappardelle adds a luxurious twist with its broad ribbons, and it pairs beautifully with creamy sauces. The key is to pick a pasta that can carry the rich sauce without turning to mush.

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Options for Substitutions

You might not have every ingredient on hand—and that’s totally fine. This dish is surprisingly forgiving:

• Chicken breast: Boneless thighs add extra richness and stay tender.
• Heavy cream: Half-and-half works in a pinch, though the sauce will be a little lighter. For dairy-free, use full-fat coconut milk.
• Parmesan cheese: Romano or Asiago can substitute, or use a mix if that’s what you have.
• Butter: Olive oil is a viable substitute, especially if you’re cutting down on dairy.
• Linguine: Try fettuccine, penne, or gluten-free pasta depending on your preference.
• Garlic: Fresh is best, but garlic powder can save the day in a hurry.

You can even toss in veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to customize the flavor.

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Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce

• Chicken breasts
  These are the star of the dish—sliced and seared until golden, they soak up the garlic butter and pair beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Linguine pasta
  It provides the perfect base for this rich dish, with just the right texture to cling to the Alfredo sauce.
• Garlic cloves
  Fresh garlic is essential for infusing the butter with its deep, aromatic flavor.
• Butter
  This creates the base of the sauce and adds richness to both the chicken and the Alfredo.
• Heavy cream
  The foundation of any good Alfredo, giving it that thick, luxurious consistency.
• Parmesan cheese
  It brings saltiness, nuttiness, and body to the sauce—grated fresh if possible for best results.
• Olive oil
  Helps sear the chicken to a golden crisp without burning the butter.
• Salt and black pepper
  Simple but necessary for enhancing all the other flavors.
• Fresh parsley (optional)
  Adds a pop of color and freshness to balance the creamy richness.

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Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by slicing the chicken breasts into even strips or thin cutlets. Pat them dry and season with salt and pepper on both sides. This helps the chicken brown properly and stay juicy.

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Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a combination of olive oil and a bit of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on each side for about 3–4 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside, keeping it warm.

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Step 3: Cook the Linguine

While the chicken is searing, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine according to the package instructions. Drain, but reserve about ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

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Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the rest of the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant—about 1 minute. Don’t let it brown.

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Step 5: Add the Cream and Cheese

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a low simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan gradually, letting it melt into the sauce. Stir frequently to avoid clumping.

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Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss in the Alfredo sauce until evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water. Add the sliced chicken back into the skillet and spoon sauce over the top.

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Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Plate the creamy linguine with sliced chicken on top. Finish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if you like. Serve immediately while everything’s hot and creamy.

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How Long to Cook Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce

The whole recipe comes together in about 35 to 40 minutes from start to finish:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes (slicing, seasoning, and boiling water)
• Chicken Searing: 8–10 minutes
• Pasta Cooking: 9–11 minutes (done while chicken cooks)
• Sauce Prep & Assembly: 10–12 minutes

It’s a smooth and efficient process, especially once you have your ingredients prepped.

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Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine

• Pound your chicken for even thickness—this ensures uniform cooking and a juicy texture.
• Don’t overcook the garlic—just a quick sauté until fragrant; burnt garlic will overpower the sauce.
• Grate your own Parmesan—pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect how it melts.
• Reserve pasta water—this starchy liquid helps adjust the sauce consistency without thinning the flavor.
• Use a large pan so everything tosses together easily and evenly.
• Taste as you go—a little salt or pepper adjustment can make all the difference at the end.

These small steps make the dish go from good to truly exceptional.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the chicken: It’s easy to go from golden to dry—keep a close eye and remove once it’s just done.
• Boiling the cream: High heat can cause it to separate. Always let it simmer gently.
• Using low-quality cheese: It can clump and taste waxy—go for fresh Parmesan if possible.
• Not seasoning the pasta water: The linguine should be flavorful on its own, so salt the water well.
• Forgetting to reserve pasta water: You’ll miss your chance to perfect the sauce texture if you drain it all.
• Crowding the pan: Sear the chicken in batches if needed to get that beautiful crust.
• Skipping the rest time for chicken: Let it sit a few minutes before slicing to keep those juices in.

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What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine?

Garlic Bread

Crunchy, buttery, and perfect for mopping up every last drop of Alfredo sauce.

Steamed Broccoli

A crisp, green contrast that cuts through the richness of the dish.

Caesar Salad

Classic and refreshing—those crunchy croutons and tangy dressing are just right.

Caprese Salad

Tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil bring brightness to the plate.

Herb Focaccia

Soft and aromatic, great for scooping up bits of sauce and chicken.

Roasted Vegetables

Carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers add a rustic touch and depth of flavor.

A glass of chilled white wine

Think Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay to complement the creamy garlic tones.

Cucumber Dill Salad

Cool, crisp, and simple—great for refreshing your palate.

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Storage Instructions

Leftovers of Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce store well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Let everything cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.

To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream before microwaving or warming in a skillet over low heat—this revives the sauce’s creamy consistency. Avoid freezing, as cream-based sauces tend to separate and lose their texture when thawed.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Please note these are approximate values for one generous serving out of four:

• Calories: ~720 kcal
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 45g
• Saturated Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Sugar: 2g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 630mg

This dish is rich and hearty, thanks to the cream and cheese. You can lighten it up by using half-and-half, leaner chicken, or a smaller portion of pasta.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half for a lighter sauce or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version. The texture will be a bit thinner but still delicious.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes! Just slice it and warm it in the garlic butter before adding to the sauce. It’s a great shortcut when you’re short on time.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of milk or cream. This helps bring the sauce back to life without drying out the chicken or pasta.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing isn’t ideal. The cream sauce may separate when thawed. If you must freeze it, keep the sauce and pasta in separate containers and mix when reheating.

How do I make it spicy?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter while sautéing. You can also stir in a spoonful of chili paste if you like heat.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Absolutely. Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and make sure the Parmesan and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Yes! Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes are excellent choices. Just sauté them briefly after the garlic.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Let the cream simmer longer before adding the cheese, and don’t be afraid to add a bit more Parmesan for a richer, thicker consistency.

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Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce is the kind of comfort food that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to pull off on a weeknight. The juicy garlic-seared chicken and luxurious Alfredo sauce wrapped around silky pasta make it a go-to for any occasion. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself, this dish promises warmth, satisfaction, and flavor in every forkful.

Ready to save it to your recipe book? Let’s wrap it all up with a clean, printable format next.

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