Few dishes strike the perfect balance between comfort and indulgence like Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce. This classic-inspired meal brings together tender, pan-seared chicken, silky linguine, and a rich Alfredo sauce infused with garlic and butter. It’s the kind of recipe that feels restaurant-worthy yet is simple enough to prepare at home, making it ideal for family dinners, special occasions, or when you simply want to treat yourself to something luxurious and satisfying.
Why This Dish Is So Loved
The magic of this dish lies in its layers of flavor. Garlic butter forms the foundation, creating a warm, aromatic base. Cream and Parmesan cheese add depth and richness, while perfectly cooked linguine absorbs the sauce, ensuring every bite is smooth and flavorful. The chicken, seasoned and seared until golden, adds heartiness and protein, transforming the pasta into a complete, filling meal.
Unlike jarred sauces, homemade Alfredo has a freshness and texture that can’t be replicated. It’s creamy without being heavy, garlicky without overpowering, and indulgent without feeling excessive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
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2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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½ teaspoon paprika
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2 tablespoons butter
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1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Pasta & Sauce:
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300 g (10 oz) linguine
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4 tablespoons butter
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5–6 garlic cloves, finely minced
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1½ cups heavy cream
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1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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Salt, to taste
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Optional: a pinch of nutmeg or red chili flakes
For Garnish:
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Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
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Extra Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Cook the Linguine
Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil. Add the linguine and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside. The reserved water can help loosen the sauce later if needed.
2. Prepare and Cook the Chicken
Slice the chicken breasts horizontally to create thinner cutlets for even cooking. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter and olive oil. Once the butter melts and begins to foam, add the chicken. Cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest before slicing into strips.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Base
In the same skillet (do not wipe it clean), add the butter. Lower the heat slightly and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 30–60 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to brown the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
4. Create the Alfredo Sauce
Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring. Let it simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until it starts to thicken. Add black pepper, salt to taste, and a small pinch of nutmeg if using. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt smoothly into the sauce.
5. Combine Pasta and Chicken
Add the cooked linguine directly into the sauce, tossing gently to coat every strand. If the sauce feels too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Return the sliced chicken to the pan and mix everything together, letting it warm through for 1–2 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine hot, topped with freshly chopped parsley or basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Pair it with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A squeeze of lemon just before serving can add a subtle brightness that balances the richness of the sauce.
Tips for the Best Alfredo Pasta
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Use fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
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Don’t rush the sauce: Keep the heat moderate to avoid splitting the cream.
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Season gradually: Parmesan is salty, so taste before adding extra salt.
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Customize it: Add mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for variety.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce is more than just a pasta dish—it’s a comforting experience. Rich, velvety, and packed with flavor, it’s perfect for cozy nights at home or impressing guests with minimal effort. Once you try this homemade version, it’s likely to become a regular favorite in your kitchen, offering warmth and indulgence in every delicious bite.
