Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce
Introduction
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce is the perfect comfort dish—rich, velvety, and full of savory flavors. Tender chicken pieces are seared in fragrant garlic butter, then simmered in a luscious Alfredo sauce and served over silky linguine. This dish is quick enough for weeknights yet indulgent enough for special occasions.
Ingredients & Quantities
For the Chicken
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Alfredo Sauce
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup chicken broth
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta
12 ounces linguine
Salt for boiling water
Garnish
Fresh parsley, chopped
Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Cook the Linguine
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Chicken
1. Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken pieces and season with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook until golden brown and nearly cooked through, 5–7 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce
1. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring gently.
3. Add Parmesan cheese and garlic powder.
4. Simmer on low heat until smooth and thickened.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine
1. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and coat with Alfredo sauce.
2. Add linguine and toss until fully coated.
3. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
5. Serve
Top with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot and enjoy!
Origin
This dish is inspired by classic Italian-American cuisine, specifically the beloved Alfredo pasta tradition. While Alfredo sauce in Italy is simpler (often just butter and Parmesan), the cream-based Alfredo found in America has evolved into a rich, indulgent favorite.
Cultural Significance
Creamy pasta dishes like this are staples in American comfort cooking and are commonly enjoyed at family gatherings, celebrations, or cozy evenings at home. The combination of garlic, butter, and cream resonates with diners seeking warmth, familiarity, and hearty flavor.
Description
Expect a luxurious plate of tender, seasoned chicken coated in silky Alfredo sauce, paired with perfectly cooked linguine. The sauce clings beautifully to each strand of pasta while the garlic butter chicken adds depth and savory richness. It’s creamy, comforting, and undeniably delicious.
Optional Additions
Mushrooms – sauté before adding the chicken
Spinach or kale – stir in during the last 2 minutes of cooking
Sun-dried tomatoes – add for a tangy flavor boost
Crushed red pepper flakes – to add a touch of heat
Shrimp – swap or mix with the chicken
Tips for Success
Use freshly grated Parmesan—pre-shredded varieties don’t melt as smoothly.
Don’t overcook the chicken—remove once browned to keep it tender.
Simmer, don’t boil the sauce to prevent separation.
Reserve pasta water—it helps emulsify and extend the sauce.
Cook pasta al dente so it absorbs sauce perfectly.
Nutritional Information
(Approximate per serving; 4 servings)
Calories: 720
Protein: 37g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fat: 42g
Saturated Fat: 23g
Sodium: 790mg
Fiber: 3g
(Values vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce is a soul-satisfying dish that brings restaurant-quality indulgence to your dining table. It’s creamy, flavorful, and easy enough for any home cook to master.
Recommendation
Serve with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or steamed broccoli for perfect balance. Pair with a chilled glass of white wine—like Chardonnay—for an elevated experience.
