Name: Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tsp garlic powder; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 1/2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 oz cream cheese (optional); 12 oz linguine pasta; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce is a luxurious pasta dish that combines tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked linguine into one satisfying meal. The golden seared chicken is smothered in a garlic butter sauce and served over a bed of creamy, cheesy pasta that feels like pure comfort in every bite. Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor to the home kitchen with minimal effort. The chicken is juicy, flavorful, and cooked in a golden garlic butter that adds depth to every bite. The Alfredo sauce clings beautifully to the linguine, delivering creamy perfection with a hint of parmesan and garlic. It’s a complete, indulgent dish that’s perfect for a weeknight treat or a cozy dinner.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
Salt and pepper
Garlic powder
Olive oil
Butter
Fresh garlic, minced
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
Linguine pasta
Parsley, chopped (for garnish)

directions

I start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
In a large skillet, I heat some olive oil and sear the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Then I set it aside to rest.
In the same pan, I melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden.
I pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Then I stir in the parmesan cheese (and cream cheese if using) until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Meanwhile, I boil the linguine until al dente, then drain it and reserve a bit of the pasta water.
I slice the chicken and add it back to the pan, then toss in the cooked linguine and mix everything together. If the sauce is too thick, I splash in some of the reserved pasta water.
Finally, I garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

I sometimes swap linguine for fettuccine or penne, depending on what I have on hand. For added greens, I stir in a handful of spinach or steamed broccoli into the sauce. If I want a bit of heat, I add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter. Using shrimp instead of chicken is another great twist for seafood lovers.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce before warming it up on the stove or in the microwave. I avoid freezing since the cream-based sauce can separate when thawed.

FAQs

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

I always make sure not to overcook the chicken. I sear it until just cooked through, then let it rest before slicing to keep the juices inside.

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

Yes, I can use store-bought Alfredo sauce for convenience, but I prefer making it fresh for a richer, more authentic flavor.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If I don’t have heavy cream, I use half-and-half or a mix of milk and butter. The sauce will be slightly thinner but still delicious.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

I prefer making it fresh, but I can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead, then reheat and combine with pasta when ready to serve.

Is there a dairy-free option?

Yes, I use plant-based cream and dairy-free parmesan alternatives. The taste will vary but still be creamy and satisfying.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce is a comforting, flavorful dish I turn to when I want something rich and satisfying. It’s a simple yet impressive meal that’s perfect for any night I feel like treating myself to something truly special.