Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine

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Craving something that tastes like pure comfort but looks like a restaurant plate? This Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine brings bold seared flavors together with rich, creamy indulgence. It’s that kind of dinner that makes you forget takeout ever existed.

Seared, garlicky chicken breast gets all golden and juicy, then it meets a velvety parmesan cream sauce tangled into linguine. The contrast of caramelized chicken edges with silky cheese sauce is what takes this dish from weeknight basic to date-night worthy.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Getting this dish right is more about timing and texture than it is about fancy technique. Here are the must-haves:

• Heavy Skillet or Cast Iron Pan: Vital for getting that crispy sear on the chicken without drying it out.
• Large Pot: You’ll need this for boiling the linguine to a perfect al dente.
• Tongs: Ideal for flipping chicken and twirling pasta into the sauce.
• Microplane or Grater: Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoother and gives better flavor than pre-shredded.
• Whisk: Necessary for keeping the cream sauce lump-free and luscious.

A tip before you start: Have everything prepped. The sauce and pasta come together fast, and the chicken doesn’t wait.

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Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless, these are the protein base, perfect for absorbing the garlic butter flavor.
• Linguine Pasta: Its flat shape clings to the creamy parmesan sauce better than spaghetti.
• Heavy Cream: Provides the luxurious texture that defines the velvety sauce.
• Fresh Garlic: The backbone of the dish’s deep, aromatic flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated, it melts seamlessly and gives the sauce its sharp, nutty edge.
• Butter: Used for cooking the chicken and building the base of the sauce.
• Olive Oil: Helps achieve that beautiful golden crust on the chicken.
• Parsley: Chopped fresh for brightness and finishing flair.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning at every stage.

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How To Make the Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat a mix of butter and olive oil in a skillet. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden and cooked through (about 6–7 minutes per side). Set aside and keep warm.

Step 2: Boil the Linguine

Cook the linguine in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining to adjust the sauce consistency later.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt more butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in grated Parmesan until smooth.

Step 4: Toss the Pasta

Add drained pasta into the sauce. If needed, loosen it with reserved pasta water. Mix until the noodles are fully coated and glossy.

Step 5: Plate and Finish

Slice the seared chicken and lay it over the pasta. Garnish generously with chopped parsley and more Parmesan. Serve hot and creamy.

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Serving and Storing Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine

This dish is best served immediately while the sauce is hot and silky. For an elegant presentation, twirl the pasta onto plates and top with sliced chicken and herbs.

Storing leftovers? Let the pasta cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Use an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, fettuccine or tagliatelle work well too. Stick with ribbon-style pasta for best sauce coverage.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can sub half-and-half, though the sauce will be lighter and less rich. Avoid milk as it might curdle.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead, but for best texture, cook the pasta fresh before serving.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Yes! Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta, and check your Parmesan is certified gluten-free.

Can I add veggies?

Absolutely. Spinach, mushrooms, or peas can be stirred into the sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.

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Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

You might also like the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe, where creamy heat meets melty layers. For something baked and family-sized, the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta offers a hearty twist.

Feeling like a warm bowl? The Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread on the side.

And if you’re all about spice, the Easy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli balances creamy and bold in one skillet.

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When you make it, drop a comment! Did you go extra garlic? Add roasted veggies? I’d love to see your version.

Explore more comforting meals and pasta favorites on my Pinterest: LadyPlate on Pinterest

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