Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce 🍝

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce

Description

This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce is the perfect combination of tender, juicy chicken and silky-smooth pasta tossed in a rich, homemade Alfredo sauce. Bursting with the comforting flavors of garlic, butter, and Parmesan, this dish feels like restaurant-quality comfort food made easily at home. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, it’s indulgent yet simple to make in under an hour.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter

For the Alfredo Sauce:

3 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup chicken broth
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)

For the Pasta:

12 oz (340 g) linguine pasta
Salt, for boiling water

For Garnish:

Fresh parsley, chopped
Extra Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Cook the Linguine:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add linguine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water.
Prepare the Chicken:
Slice chicken breasts horizontally into thin cutlets. Season both sides with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and 1 tbsp butter. Cook chicken for 4–5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt 3 tbsp butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
Combine Everything:
Add cooked linguine to the sauce, tossing to coat. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Slice the cooked chicken and place on top of the pasta.
Serve:
Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness!

Notes

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
Adjust consistency by adding more cream or reserved pasta water.
Use fettuccine or penne as alternatives to linguine.
Add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition.

Tips

Avoid curdling: Keep heat on low when adding cream to prevent separation.
Extra flavor: Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding cream.
Meal prep: Store leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days; reheat gently with a bit of milk or cream.
Make it lighter: Substitute half the cream with milk or use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.

Servings

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 680 kcal
Protein: 38 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fat: 38 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 780 mg

Health Benefits

Protein-rich: Supports muscle repair and keeps you full longer.
Garlic benefits: Helps boost immunity and heart health.
Calcium from Parmesan: Strengthens bones and teeth.
Healthy fats: Butter and olive oil in moderation support nutrient absorption.

Q&A

Q1: Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce instead?
Yes! Use about 2 cups of your favorite Alfredo sauce to save time, but homemade gives a fresher flavor.

Q2: How can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free linguine or zucchini noodles (zoodles) instead of traditional pasta.

Q3: Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely—try adding steamed broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach for extra color and nutrients.

Q4: What protein substitutes work well?
Shrimp, salmon, or tofu can replace chicken for variation.

Q5: How do I reheat without drying out the sauce?
Reheat over low heat with a splash of milk or cream, stirring constantly until creamy again.

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce 🍝