Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce
Introduction
Rich, comforting, and irresistibly creamy, this Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce is a dish that feels indulgent yet simple enough for everyday cooking. With tender chicken, silky pasta, and a luxurious garlic-infused sauce, it’s no surprise that first-time tasters immediately want to make it again. This recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your kitchen.
Description
This dish features juicy, seasoned chicken sautéed in garlic butter, paired with perfectly cooked linguine and coated in a smooth, creamy Alfredo sauce. The balance of savory garlic, rich cream, and delicate Italian seasoning creates a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and elegant.
Ingredients & Quantities
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
8 ounces linguine pasta
½ cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Season the Chicken
Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Make Alfredo Sauce
Pour in heavy cream and simmer gently for 2–3 minutes. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Combine Everything
Return chicken to the skillet, add cooked linguine, and toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
Serve
Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve hot.
Optional Additions
Sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition
Crushed red pepper flakes for heat
Grilled shrimp for a surf-and-turf variation
A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
Tips for Success
Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce
Simmer the cream gently—avoid boiling
Reserve pasta water; it helps perfect sauce consistency
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 520–580
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fat: 28g
Calcium: High (from Parmesan and cream)
Origin & Cultural Significance
While Alfredo sauce has Italian roots, the creamy version popular today evolved in Italian-American cuisine. Combining pasta with cream, butter, and cheese became a symbol of comfort food in Western cooking, often associated with family meals and celebratory dinners.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce is the perfect fusion of simplicity and indulgence. It’s a dish that satisfies cravings, impresses guests, and quickly becomes a household favorite.
Recommendation
Serve this dish with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete, balanced meal. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or anytime you’re craving something cozy and delicious.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While undeniably rich, this dish can still be enjoyed mindfully. Pairing it with vegetables, using moderate portions, and savoring each bite allows you to indulge without guilt—because comfort food has a place in a balanced lifestyle.
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