This Easy Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine is the kind of dish that turns any dinner into a cozy, flavorful experience without demanding hours in the kitchen. I’ve made this countless times for friends and family, and every time, someone asks for the recipe. The juicy seared chicken, bathed in garlic butter, sits beside a creamy linguine tossed with Parmesan and herbs—it’s comfort food at its best. It’s a great weeknight dinner option that still feels special, and trust me, the leftovers (if there are any) are just as dreamy.

What I love about this dish is how it balances richness with simplicity. The pasta is creamy, but not overly heavy, and the chicken is seasoned perfectly to complement that buttery garlic flavor. Plus, it’s all done in under an hour, which means you can get that “restaurant-quality” taste on your table without any stress. Whether you’re cooking for two or feeding a crowd, this one’s a winner.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine

This recipe is a triple-threat: it’s quick, easy, and full of flavor. If you’re a fan of garlic, Parmesan, and juicy pan-seared chicken, you’re in for a treat. The cream sauce is smooth and indulgent, yet doesn’t overpower the dish, and the linguine noodles soak it all up beautifully. Plus, everything can be prepped in advance if needed, making it ideal for both casual weeknights and last-minute dinner guests.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use for Easy Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine?

For this dish, I always go with boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts, depending on what I have on hand. Thighs offer more flavor and stay incredibly juicy, which pairs beautifully with the richness of the garlic butter. If you prefer leaner meat, chicken breasts work just as well—just be sure not to overcook them, so they stay tender. I like to cut the chicken into bite-sized chunks before cooking for quicker, even searing and easier bites when serving.

Options for Substitutions

Whether you’re working with pantry staples or customizing for dietary needs, this recipe is incredibly flexible. Here are a few great swaps you can try:

Chicken → Swap with shrimp for a seafood twist, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Linguine → Fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne work beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Heavy cream → Use half-and-half for a lighter version or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
Parmesan → Pecorino Romano or Asiago will add a sharper bite.
Butter → Try ghee or plant-based butter for dietary adjustments.
Garlic → Garlic powder in a pinch, though fresh cloves are ideal for flavor depth.

These tweaks let you make the dish your own without compromising taste or comfort.

Ingredients for This Easy Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine

Chicken thighs or breasts
These are the star protein of the dish. Their mild flavor soaks up the garlic butter and seasonings perfectly.
Linguine pasta
Linguine’s flat, wide shape holds onto the creamy sauce better than spaghetti or angel hair, making every bite rich and satisfying.
Garlic cloves
Fresh garlic is essential—it infuses the butter and cream with deep, aromatic flavor that’s the base of the entire dish.
Unsalted butter
Butter is the base for the garlic sauce and gives everything a rich, smooth finish. Use unsalted so you can control the seasoning.
Heavy cream
This creates the velvety, luscious texture of the sauce. It thickens naturally as it simmers and clings beautifully to the pasta.
Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
Adds a salty, nutty depth to the sauce and thickens it slightly. Freshly grated is best—it melts better and tastes fresher.
Olive oil
Used for searing the chicken to get that golden crust. It also brings a subtle fruitiness to balance the richness.
Salt and black pepper
Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the sauce. Don’t be shy—season as you go for layered flavor.
Italian seasoning or dried parsley
A sprinkle of herbs brings color and a hint of earthy brightness to finish the dish.

Step 1: Cook the Linguine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, pat the chicken dry and season generously with salt, pepper, and a bit of Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken pieces until golden brown on all sides and fully cooked through, about 6–8 minutes depending on thickness. Remove and set aside, keeping them warm.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant—about 1 minute. Keep stirring to avoid burning the garlic.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Cheese

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3–4 minutes, then stir in the Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 5: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Add the drained linguine to the skillet and toss until evenly coated in the sauce. If it feels too thick, use a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 6: Plate and Serve

Serve the creamy linguine on a large platter or plate, and arrange the seared garlic butter chicken on the side or on top. Garnish with a sprinkle of dried parsley or more Parmesan, and enjoy while hot.

How Long to Cook the Easy Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine

The entire recipe takes about 35–40 minutes from start to finish. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Pasta boiling: 8–10 minutes
Chicken searing: 6–8 minutes
Garlic butter sauce + simmering: 8–10 minutes
Combining and plating: 5 minutes

It’s fast enough for a weeknight dinner but tasty enough to serve on special occasions.

Tips for Perfect Easy Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine

Cut chicken evenly: This ensures uniform cooking and prevents some pieces from drying out while others are underdone.
Don’t overcook the garlic: Garlic burns fast and turns bitter. As soon as it’s fragrant, move on to the next step.
Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly into the sauce.
Reserve pasta water: It’s starchy and helps emulsify the sauce if it gets too thick when tossing the pasta.
Cook pasta al dente: Slightly firm pasta holds up better when mixed with hot sauce and doesn’t get mushy.
Let the chicken rest after cooking: Just a couple minutes before slicing helps keep it juicy.
Taste and adjust seasoning at the end: A final pinch of salt or a crack of black pepper can bring everything together.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the chicken: It’s easy to dry out the chicken if you leave it on the heat too long. Sear until just cooked through and golden brown.
Burning the garlic: Garlic cooks quickly—just a minute in hot butter is enough. Keep the heat moderate and stir constantly once it’s added.
Skipping the pasta water: That starchy water is gold when it comes to loosening and binding the sauce. Don’t forget to reserve some before draining the pasta.
Using cold cream or cheese: Bringing both to room temperature helps them blend smoothly into the sauce without curdling.
Crowding the pan: When cooking the chicken, give each piece space. Overcrowding causes steaming instead of searing.

What to Serve With Easy Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine?

Simple Arugula or Spinach Salad

A lightly dressed salad adds a peppery, fresh contrast to the creamy pasta.

Garlic Bread or Crusty Baguette

Perfect for mopping up every bit of that rich garlic butter sauce.

Roasted Parmesan Broccoli

Crispy, cheesy roasted broccoli adds a crunchy bite that complements the soft pasta.

Lemon-Butter Asparagus

The brightness of lemony asparagus cuts through the creaminess and keeps the meal balanced.

A Glass of White Wine

Something crisp like a Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the garlic and cream.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy mushrooms in butter and herbs bring an extra savory layer to your plate.

Caprese Skewers

Fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes offer a light, vibrant starter or side.

Roasted Garlic Cauliflower

Another low-carb veggie side that soaks up flavor and adds variety to the plate.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken in the fridge, but it will loosen back up with a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water when reheating.

For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—use 30-second intervals and stir in between to avoid overcooking the chicken or drying out the pasta.

Freezing is not recommended due to the cream-based sauce, which can separate and become grainy when thawed.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

This estimate is based on a 4-serving recipe and may vary depending on exact brands and measurements used.

Calories: 620
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 135mg
Sodium: 410mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Serving Size: About 1 ½ cups

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of cream is best for the sauce?

Heavy cream is ideal—it gives the sauce that rich, velvety texture without needing a thickener. Half-and-half can work, but the sauce will be lighter and a bit thinner.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the chicken and prep the sauce in advance. Store them separately and combine with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.

What if I don’t have Parmesan?

You can use Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even a sharp white cheddar. Just make sure it’s a hard, aged cheese that melts smoothly.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free linguine or another pasta alternative like chickpea or lentil pasta. Double-check your cheese and other ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! It’s creamy, cheesy, and mild in flavor. You can cut back on the garlic a little if your kids prefer less intensity.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes—spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or peas all mix in beautifully. Just sauté them before adding the cream to ensure they cook properly.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently. You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Sure! Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works well. Just add it at the end so it warms through without drying out.

Conclusion

This Easy Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine is more than just a quick weeknight meal—it’s a restaurant-quality comfort dish you can whip up with pantry staples and a little love. It delivers a perfect balance of creamy richness, garlicky goodness, and satisfying protein that makes it a crowd-pleaser every time. Whether you’re cooking to impress or just craving something indulgent yet simple, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Ready to turn your ordinary dinner into something unforgettable? This is the one.