Here’s a detailed recipe for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce—rich, comforting, and restaurant-quality, made right at home.
Ingredients (Serves 3–4)
For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts (about 500g), sliced into thin strips
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for depth)
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
For the Pasta:
- 300g linguine
- Salt for pasta water
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Linguine
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Season chicken strips with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
- Add the chicken and cook 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and fully cooked.
- Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant (do not burn).
- Pour in heavy cream and simmer 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat to low, then add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using.
- If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
- Add the cooked linguine to the Alfredo sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- Return the chicken to the pan and mix until well combined.
- Cook 1–2 minutes to heat through and let flavors meld.
Step 5: Serve
- Plate the creamy garlic butter chicken linguine.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan if desired.
- Serve immediately with garlic bread or a fresh side salad.
Tips for the Perfect Dish
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a creamy, authentic sauce.
- Don’t overcook the garlic—it should be fragrant, not burnt.
- For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese while making the sauce.
- Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or peas for color and nutrition.
This dish is rich, creamy, and indulgent, with tender chicken, perfectly cooked linguine, and a garlicky, cheesy Alfredo sauce that clings to every strand of pasta.