Sally Winter
Rich, cozy, and unapologetically indulgent, Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce is the ultimate comfort food that feels fancy without the fuss. This dish blends golden-seared, herb-seasoned chicken breasts with silky strands of linguine drenched in a velvety homemade Alfredo sauce. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, it’s a hearty meal that’s full of flavor and destined to satisfy even the hungriest crowd.
Whether you’re craving something creamy and savory for Sunday dinner or want a showstopping pasta dish for guests, this one-pan wonder is a guaranteed hit. The buttery garlic undertones perfectly complement the richness of the Alfredo, while the juicy chicken brings a satisfying protein punch to the mix. It’s soul-warming food that tastes like it came straight from a cozy Italian kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce
- It’s a full meal in one skillet: protein, pasta, and creamy sauce
- Super flavorful thanks to garlic, herbs, and a seared crust on the chicken
- Perfect for dinner parties, date nights, or a satisfying weeknight dinner
- Easily customizable with add-ins like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes
- Leftovers reheat beautifully for lunch the next day
What Kind of Pasta Works Best for This Dish?
Linguine is ideal for holding onto the creamy Alfredo sauce, thanks to its slightly flattened shape, but you can also substitute with fettuccine or tagliatelle. If you want to go lighter or gluten-free, opt for gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles. Just make sure to cook your pasta al dente—you want it tender with just the right bite to balance the rich sauce and savory chicken.
Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, richness, and texture. It’s a combination that delivers comfort in every bite.
- Chicken breasts – Sliced into tender pieces, seasoned, and seared until golden for maximum flavor.
- Salt and pepper – Simple, essential seasoning that enhances every component.
- Olive oil & Butter – A mix of both adds depth and richness to the chicken and sauce.
- Garlic – Freshly minced for that bold, aromatic flavor that defines the dish.
- Heavy cream – Creates the creamy base of the Alfredo sauce.
- Parmesan cheese – Adds nuttiness, saltiness, and creamy thickness.
- Linguine pasta – The perfect vehicle for holding onto the luscious Alfredo sauce.
- Fresh parsley – A fresh, colorful garnish that cuts through the richness with brightness.
How To Make the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Season sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high. Add the chicken pieces and sear on both sides until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt more butter and add the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Slowly stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and whisk until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
Step 3: Cook the Linguine
Boil the linguine in salted water until al dente. Drain and reserve some of the pasta water.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Toss the cooked linguine into the Alfredo sauce, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Stir until the noodles are well coated.
Step 5: Finish With Chicken and Garnish
Add the seared chicken back into the skillet on top of the pasta. Spoon some sauce over the chicken and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness!
How to Serve and Store This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce
This dish is hearty and filling, serving up to 4 people comfortably. It’s best enjoyed hot off the stove while the sauce is creamy and the chicken juicy. Serve it straight from the skillet for a rustic presentation that feels just as cozy as it tastes.
To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce, and warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce?
Garlic Bread
A classic choice for soaking up every bit of creamy Alfredo sauce.
Roasted Broccoli
The slightly charred, crispy edges contrast beautifully with the smooth, rich pasta.
Caesar Salad
Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a refreshing balance.
Steamed Asparagus
Lightly steamed with a touch of lemon for brightness.
Caprese Salad
Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze adds a summery touch.
Sauteed Spinach
Garlicky spinach complements the creamy, savory notes of the pasta.
Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio
If you enjoy wine, a chilled glass of white pairs delightfully with the rich sauce.
Lemon Iced Tea
For a non-alcoholic option, this citrusy tea refreshes and cleanses the palate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While linguine is great for holding onto creamy sauces, you can substitute it with fettuccine, spaghetti, or tagliatelle. Gluten-free or low-carb pasta alternatives also work well.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the components ahead by cooking the chicken and storing the Alfredo sauce separately. Cook the pasta fresh and combine everything when ready to serve.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
Half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese can be used as substitutes, but the sauce will be slightly less rich.
Can I freeze leftovers?
It’s best eaten fresh, but you can freeze it in portions. The texture may change slightly upon thawing. Reheat with a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy consistency.
How do I prevent the Alfredo sauce from curdling?
Keep the heat low when adding the cheese and stir continuously. Avoid boiling the sauce after the cheese is added.
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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you toss in some spinach or top it with extra cheese? Did you spice it up with chili flakes?
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Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Pasta Pot
- Strainer
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream, bring to a simmer, and stir in Parmesan cheese. Whisk until smooth.
- Boil linguine in salted water until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Add cooked linguine to the Alfredo sauce. Mix well, using pasta water to adjust consistency if needed.
- Place seared chicken over the pasta, spoon sauce on top, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot.
Notes
Add extra cream or a splash of pasta water if the sauce thickens too much on standing.