Ingredients You’ll Need: For the Chicken:

There’s something magical about the combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan three ingredients that, when paired together, create a flavor explosion. And when you add juicy, golden chicken and creamy linguine into the mix, you have a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine is the kind of meal that makes you feel special, even if you’re just cooking for yourself on a regular weekday night.

I first stumbled upon this recipe during one of those days when I had a craving for comfort food but wanted something just a little more elegant than the usual pasta. After a bit of trial and error, I perfected this dish. The garlic butter chicken is perfectly golden and bursting with flavor, while the creamy Parmesan linguine is the ultimate indulgence. It’s not just about the taste it’s about the whole experience of sitting down to a plate of food that feels both luxurious and satisfying.

Whether you’re preparing it for a date night, a family dinner, or a special celebration, this dish is sure to impress. It’s one of those recipes that makes you feel like a gourmet chef without all the complicated steps. Ready to dive into this deliciously golden world of garlic butter chicken and creamy linguine? Let’s get started!

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 3 tbsp butter, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

For the Parmesan Linguine:

• 8 oz linguine (or your favorite pasta)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Preparation:

Creating this dish is a breeze, and it all comes together in a matter of minutes. Here’s how to make it:

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. This makes the cooking process quicker and ensures that the chicken cooks evenly. Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. The paprika adds a subtle smokiness, while the Italian seasoning brings an herby richness to the dish.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and begins to bubble, add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet. Allow the chicken to cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Once the chicken is golden and fully cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. This keeps the chicken juicy while you prepare the garlic butter sauce.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Add Lemon

In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be sure to stir constantly, as garlic can burn quickly and become bitter. Next, stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice. The fresh citrus brightens up the dish, complementing the rich garlic butter sauce. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and toss it in the buttery garlic mixture to coat it evenly. The chicken will soak up the lemony garlic goodness, and you’ll be left with perfectly tender, flavorful pieces of chicken.

Step 4: Cook the Linguine

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine (or pasta of your choice) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Be sure to reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. This starchy water can help loosen the sauce if needed.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over low heat. Once the butter is melted, stir in the garlic powder, followed by the heavy cream. Let the cream warm up for 1-2 minutes before adding the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously to ensure the cheese melts smoothly into the cream, creating a luscious, creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water to reach the desired consistency. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. The Parmesan will give the sauce a rich, cheesy flavor, while the garlic powder provides a subtle depth of flavor.

Once the Parmesan sauce is smooth and creamy, add the cooked linguine to the saucepan and toss it to coat the pasta in the sauce. You’ll want the pasta to be generously coated, with each bite having that delicious creamy texture. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

To serve, plate the creamy Parmesan linguine and top it with the golden garlic butter chicken. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top to add a pop of color and freshness. The parsley not only brightens the dish but also balances the richness of the creamy sauce. Serve immediately, and enjoy!

Variations:

This dish is already packed with flavor, but if you’re looking for ways to make it your own, here are a few ideas:

• Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic, or add a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce for a zesty twist.
• Add Vegetables: You can easily sneak in some vegetables to add color and texture. Try adding spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted broccoli to the pasta for extra nutrients.
• Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, swap the linguine for gluten-free pasta. There are plenty of delicious gluten-free options available that will work perfectly with the creamy sauce.
• Dairy-Free: To make this dish dairy-free, use a plant-based butter and heavy cream alternative, such as coconut cream or almond milk. Vegan Parmesan cheese is available and will give you that cheesy flavor without the dairy.

Cooking Notes:

• Chicken Tenderness: Make sure not to overcook the chicken. Chicken breasts can easily dry out if cooked too long. Once the chicken is golden and reaches 165°F (74°C) internally, it’s done. Allowing it to rest for a few minutes before slicing will also keep it juicy.
• Pasta Sauce Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, don’t worry! Add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out. The starchy water helps the sauce cling to the pasta, making it silky and smooth.
• Resting Time for Chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps it retain its juices, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.