Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine

This Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine is a restaurant-quality dish you can make at home in under an hour. Juicy, seasoned chicken smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce pairs perfectly with creamy, cheesy linguine for a meal that’s indulgent, comforting, and packed with flavor. Perfect for date night or a special family dinner!

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp butter (divided)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp heavy cream
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan
• Fresh chives, chopped (optional garnish)

For the Linguine

• 1 lb linguine pasta
• 6 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan (plus extra for serving)
• ½ cup reserved pasta water
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Linguine

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water , then drain the linguine and set it aside. The starchy pasta water will help the sauce cling beautifully to the noodles.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

1. In a bowl, toss the cubed chicken with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
2. Heat 2 tbsp butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted and shimmering, add the chicken in a single layer (work in batches if needed) and sear for 5–7 minutes , turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. Lower the heat to medium. Melt the remaining 2 tbsp butter in the skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30–45 seconds , stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring gently. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes , until the sauce starts to thicken slightly.
3. Stir in 2 tbsp grated Parmesan and return the chicken to the skillet, coating it evenly in the sauce. Set aside while you prepare the linguine.

Step 4: Create the Velvety Parmesan Linguine

1. In a clean, large pot or wiped skillet, melt 6 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute , until aromatic.
2. Pour in the heavy cream and gently bring it to a simmer. Stir in 1 cup grated Parmesan , salt, and pepper.
3. Slowly whisk in the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency—smooth, velvety, and creamy.

Step 5: Combine & Serve

1. Add the cooked linguine to the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
2. Plate the linguine and top with the garlic butter chicken. Spoon extra sauce from the skillet over the dish for added richness.
3. Garnish with fresh chives and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan.
4. Serve immediately and savor every creamy, garlicky bite!

Tips for Success

• Chicken Prep: For even cooking, cut the chicken into uniform cubes. Pat them dry with paper towels before seasoning to ensure a good sear.
• Sauce Consistency: If the Alfredo sauce thickens too much, add a splash more reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
• Add Veggies: Toss in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine is a match made in culinary heaven. The chicken is tender, juicy, and bursting with Cajun-spiced flavor, while the creamy garlic butter sauce ties everything together. The linguine is luxuriously coated in a velvety Parmesan Alfredo sauce, making each bite irresistibly rich and satisfying. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving comfort food, this dish delivers elegance and ease. Dive into this creamy, garlicky masterpiece and enjoy every bite!