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Ever Craved a Dish That’s Creamy, Garlicky, and Packed with Southern Comfort?

Imagine tender, Cajun-spiced chicken cubes coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, served over silky linguine tossed in a velvety Parmesan cream sauce. Sounds like a restaurant-worthy meal you can make at home, right? That’s exactly what Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine delivers! This indulgent yet straightforward recipe serves 4-6 and combines bold flavors with a creamy texture, perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through every step to create this flavorful dish, with tips to make it shine. Ready to cook up some comfort? Let’s get started!

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Overview: Why This Dish Shines

Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine is a decadent meal that balances smoky, spicy chicken with a creamy, cheesy pasta. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for a special occasion, using pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients. The garlic butter sauce adds depth to the chicken, while the Parmesan linguine is rich and velvety, clinging to every strand.

Time Requirement: 15 minutes prep, 20-25 minutes cooking. Total: ~35-40 minutes.
Difficulty Level: Easy. Simple steps and techniques make it approachable for all skill levels.
Why It’s Special: Serves 4-6, blends bold Cajun flavors with creamy comfort, and looks as good as it tastes.
Health Perks: Chicken provides lean protein, and Parmesan offers calcium, but this rich dish with butter and cream is a treat best enjoyed in moderation.

Grab your skillet and pot, and let’s create a meal that’s pure indulgence!

Essential Ingredients

This dish uses straightforward ingredients to deliver bold, comforting flavors. Here’s what you need and why each one matters:

For the Chicken

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (1.5 lbs, cubed): The lean, tender protein base.
- Why it matters: Absorbs flavors and cooks quickly for a juicy result.
- Substitution: Use chicken thighs for richer flavor or tofu for vegetarian.
Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Helps sear the chicken.
- Why it matters: Adds a light fat for browning and flavor.
- Substitution: Use avocado oil or vegetable oil.
Butter (4 tbsp, divided): Adds richness to the sauce.
- Why it matters: Creates a silky, flavorful garlic butter sauce.
- Substitution: Use vegan butter or olive oil for dairy-free.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Provides bold, aromatic flavor.
- Why it matters: The star of the sauce, tying chicken and pasta together.
- Substitution: Use 1 tsp garlic powder in a pinch.
Cajun Seasoning (1 tbsp): Adds smoky, spicy depth.
- Why it matters: Gives the chicken a Southern kick.
- Substitution: Use Creole seasoning or a mix of paprika, cayenne, and thyme.
Smoked Paprika (1 tsp): Enhances smokiness.
- Why it matters: Complements the Cajun flavor with a subtle warmth.
- Substitution: Use regular paprika or chili powder.
Salt (1/2 tsp) and Black Pepper (1/4 tsp): Season the chicken.
- Why it matters: Balance and enhance all flavors.
Chicken Broth (1/4 cup): Forms the sauce base.
- Why it matters: Adds savory depth and thins the sauce.
- Substitution: Use vegetable broth or water with a pinch of salt.
Heavy Cream (2 tbsp): Adds creaminess to the sauce.
- Why it matters: Creates a luxurious texture.
- Substitution: Use half-and-half or coconut cream for dairy-free.
Grated Parmesan (2 tbsp): Adds cheesy, nutty flavor.
- Why it matters: Ties the chicken sauce to the pasta.
- Substitution: Use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for dairy-free.
Fresh Chives, Chopped (optional garnish): Add a fresh, mild oniony touch.
- Why it matters: Enhance presentation and flavor.
- Substitution: Use parsley or green onions.

For the Linguine

Linguine Pasta (1 lb): The starchy base for the creamy sauce.
- Why it matters: Its flat shape holds the velvety sauce perfectly.
- Substitution: Use fettuccine, spaghetti, or gluten-free pasta.
Butter (6 tbsp): Creates a rich base for the sauce.
- Why it matters: Adds depth and silkiness to the Alfredo-style sauce.
- Substitution: Use vegan butter or olive oil.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Adds aromatic flavor.
- Why it matters: Ties the pasta sauce to the chicken’s flavor profile.
- Substitution: Use 1 tsp garlic powder.
Heavy Cream (1 cup): Makes the sauce velvety.
- Why it matters: Creates a rich, creamy texture.
- Substitution: Use coconut cream or cashew cream for dairy-free.
Grated Parmesan (1 cup, plus extra for serving): Adds cheesy richness.
- Why it matters: Forms the heart of the Alfredo sauce.
- Substitution: Use Pecorino or nutritional yeast.
Reserved Pasta Water (1/2 cup): Adjusts sauce consistency.
- Why it matters: The starch helps the sauce cling to the pasta.
- Substitution: Use plain water if you forget to reserve.
Salt (1/4 tsp) and Black Pepper (1/4 tsp): Season the sauce.
- Why it matters: Enhance the creamy, cheesy flavors.

Pro Tip: Use fresh garlic for the best flavor, and cube chicken evenly for uniform cooking. Reserve pasta water right after draining to ensure it’s starchy.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine is a breeze with two simple components: flavorful chicken and creamy pasta. Follow these steps for a perfect meal:

Preparation

Cook the Linguine:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook 1 lb linguine until al dente (per package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes).
- Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Tip: Toss pasta with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking while preparing the sauce.
Season and Sear the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, toss 1.5 lbs cubed chicken breasts with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
- Heat 2 tbsp butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until melted and shimmering.
- Add chicken in a single layer (work in batches if needed) and sear for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C).
- Remove chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet to ensure a golden sear.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- Lower the skillet heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tbsp butter.
- Add 4 cloves minced garlic and cook for 30-45 seconds until fragrant (avoid browning).
- Pour in 1/4 cup chicken broth and 2 tbsp heavy cream, stirring gently.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in 2 tbsp grated Parmesan, then return the chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat.
- Keep warm on low heat.
- Tip: Scrape up browned bits from the skillet for extra flavor in the sauce.
Make the Velvety Parmesan Linguine:
- In a clean large pot or wiped skillet, melt 6 tbsp butter over medium heat.
- Add 4 cloves minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until aromatic.
- Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in 1 cup grated Parmesan, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
- Gradually whisk in reserved pasta water (start with 1/4 cup, add more as needed) until the sauce is smooth and velvety.
- Tip: Adjust pasta water to reach your desired sauce thickness; it should coat a spoon.
Combine and Serve:
- Add cooked linguine to the Parmesan sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
- Plate the linguine, then top with garlic butter chicken and its sauce.
- Garnish with chopped fresh chives and extra grated Parmesan.
- Serve immediately.
- Health Benefit: Chicken provides lean protein, and Parmesan offers calcium, but this creamy dish is a rich treat to savor!

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Assembly: Building Your Dish

This dish is all about bold, savory chicken paired with creamy, cheesy pasta. Here’s how to make it shine:

Cook Pasta Perfectly:
- Boil linguine to al dente for the best texture to hold the sauce.
- Tip: Reserve pasta water right after draining for maximum starch.
Sear Chicken for Flavor:
- Sear chicken in a single layer for a golden crust that locks in juices.
- Presentation Tip: Cube chicken uniformly for even cooking and a polished look.
Craft Sauces with Care:
- Cook garlic just until fragrant to avoid bitterness, and simmer sauces gently for a smooth texture.
- Tip: Stir constantly when adding cream to prevent curdling.
Plate with Flair:
- Toss pasta thoroughly in the sauce, then top with chicken and garnishes for a restaurant-style presentation.
- Presentation Tip: Sprinkle chives in a light, even layer for color.

Serving Suggestion: Serve in wide, shallow bowls with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad (like arugula with lemon vinaigrette). Pair with a chilled white wine like Chardonnay or a sparkling water for a refreshing touch!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine is best fresh but can be prepped ahead:

Storing Leftovers:
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.
- Tip: Store chicken and pasta separately to maintain textures.
Freezing:
- Freeze the chicken (without sauce) for up to 2 months in an airtight container.
- The creamy pasta sauce doesn’t freeze well (it may separate), so make fresh when serving.
- Tip: Thaw chicken in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Make-Ahead:
- Prep and season chicken up to 1 day ahead; refrigerate in an airtight container.
- Cook pasta and make sauces just before serving for the best texture.
- Tip: Mince garlic and measure spices in advance to save time.

Recipe Variations

Want to mix things up? Try these fun twists on Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine:

Spicy Cajun Kick: Increase Cajun seasoning to 1.5 tbsp and add 1/4 tsp cayenne for extra heat.
Veggie Boost: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes to the chicken sauce.
Lemon Herb Twist: Add 1 tbsp lemon juice and 1 tsp fresh thyme to the chicken sauce for brightness.
Vegan/Dairy-Free: Use tofu or seitan, vegan butter, coconut cream, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Pesto Parmesan: Swirl 2 tbsp pesto into the Parmesan sauce for a herby, nutty flavor.

Quick Prep Tip: Cube chicken and mince garlic ahead of time to streamline cooking.

Conclusion

Your Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine is ready to bring comfort and flavor to your table! With its smoky, spicy chicken, creamy Parmesan pasta, and garlicky goodness, this dish is perfect for cozy dinners, date nights, or impressing guests. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or try a variation, you’re in for a meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make. Grab your skillet, toss some pasta, and enjoy every creamy, savory bite. We’d love to see your creations—share your photos or tips in the comments or on social media! Happy cooking!

Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine

Author: Alyssa

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Description

Imagine tender, Cajun-spiced chicken cubes coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, served over silky linguine tossed in a velvety Parmesan cream sauce. Sounds like a restaurant-worthy meal you can make at home, right? That’s exactly what Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine delivers! This indulgent yet straightforward recipe serves 4-6 and combines bold flavors with a creamy texture, perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests.