I still remember the first time I made this creamy garlic butter chicken linguine skillet. It was one of those busy weeknights when I wanted something quick but also rich and satisfying enough to feel like a treat. I had a craving for garlic and cheese, but didn’t want to mess around with complicated sauces or fancy ingredients. So I grabbed some chicken breasts, butter, garlic, and a handful of cheeses, and the rest just came together naturally.
This recipe quickly became a favorite in our household because it’s easy to prepare, but the flavors feel layered and special. The tender chicken bites coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce, paired with al dente linguine, make for a meal that feels both comforting and indulgent without being overly heavy.
It’s perfect for a casual family dinner when you want something homemade but don’t have hours to cook. I’ve also brought this skillet to potlucks and small gatherings where it’s always met with happy smiles and requests for the recipe. If you love creamy pasta dishes with plenty of garlic and cheese but want to keep it simple, this one is for you.
Essential Elements and Equipment
Here are the key tools and ingredients that help make this recipe shine:
- A large skillet or deep sauté pan: This is important so you can cook the chicken and sauce all in one place without crowding.
- Good-quality unsalted butter: It creates the rich garlic butter base essential for the sauce.
- Fresh garlic: Minced just before cooking to ensure the sauce has a bright and fragrant garlic flavor.
- Heavy cream and cream cheese: These ingredients form the velvety sauce that clings to the pasta and chicken.
- Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses: Parmesan adds a sharp, savory flavor while mozzarella lends a gooey, cheesy texture.
- Linguine pasta: Its thin, flat shape holds the sauce beautifully, though fettuccine or spaghetti can be swapped in if needed.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and a fresh note to balance the richness.
What Makes This Recipe Work
- Cooking the chicken pieces until golden and juicy brings out a nice texture and locks in flavor.
- Butter and garlic are cooked just enough to release their aromas without browning, ensuring a clean and bright garlic flavor.
- The combination of heavy cream and cream cheese melts smoothly, creating a thick, creamy sauce that clings to every strand of pasta.
- Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, salty depth that enhances the overall richness without overpowering.
- Mozzarella melts into the sauce, giving it stretch and that luscious gooey quality everyone loves.
- Smoked paprika and Cajun seasoning add subtle smoky warmth and a gentle spicy kick that elevates the dish without overwhelming it.
- Using reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce helps achieve the perfect creamy consistency.
- Fresh parsley stirred in at the end brightens the flavor and gives the dish a fresh finish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (optional for a spicy kick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces linguine pasta
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
Preparation
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and Cajun seasoning if using. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Lower the heat to medium and slowly stir in the heavy cream and softened cream cheese. Keep stirring until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
Step 5: Gradually add the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses to the skillet. Stir constantly until the cheeses melt and the sauce thickens. If the sauce feels too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
Step 6: Add the cooked linguine and the chicken back into the skillet. Gently toss everything together to make sure every piece of pasta and chicken is well coated in that luscious garlic butter cream sauce. Let it simmer on low heat for 1 to 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 7: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley, reserving a little for garnish. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 8: Serve the pasta hot, topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and an optional extra handful of Parmesan cheese.
Easy Variations to Try
If you want to customize this recipe or accommodate dietary preferences, here are some ideas that work wonderfully:
- For a milder flavor, simply omit the Cajun seasoning or reduce the smoked paprika. You can replace it with Italian herbs like oregano and thyme for a different but equally delicious twist.
- Swap out the linguine for gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-friendly without losing the creamy texture.
- Add some sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth and color.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the butter slightly.
- You can replace the chicken with shrimp or even tofu strips for a pescatarian or vegetarian option.
- Stir in some steamed broccoli or peas at the end for a pop of green and a nutritional boost.
- For a dairy-free twist, try using coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative, though the flavor and texture will vary slightly.
How to Serve
This creamy chicken linguine skillet makes a satisfying main course on its own, but pairing it with simple sides can elevate your meal further.
- A crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or balsamic provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted or steamed vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add a nutritious, vibrant touch.
- Garlic bread or crusty baguette slices are perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce on the plate.
- For a heartier meal, serve alongside sautéed mushrooms or a medley of roasted root vegetables.
- If you want a cooling element, a side of chilled cucumber salad or coleslaw complements the creamy garlic sauce beautifully.
- For beverages, iced tea with fresh lemon or sparkling water with a splash of citrus balances the richness without overpowering the flavors.
Serving this dish alongside fresh, simple sides keeps the meal well-rounded and inviting, whether for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends and family.
Recipe Tips
- Use fresh garlic for the best aroma and flavor; powdered garlic just won’t compare.
- When cooking chicken, don’t overcrowd the pan. Searing in batches helps get that perfect golden crust.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente texture holds up best when tossed in sauce.
- Reserve pasta water every time you cook pasta; its starchiness is a natural thickener and can rescue sauces that get too thick.
- Gradually add cheese to your sauce and stir constantly to prevent clumping or graininess.
- Leftovers reheat well in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
- For meal prep, store chicken and pasta separately to avoid sogginess; reheat together just before serving.
Cooking Notes
- Be mindful not to burn the garlic when sautéing; garlic cooks fast and can turn bitter.
- The sauce thickens as it cools, so adjusting the thickness while it’s hot is easier.
- Cream cheese adds richness but also helps stabilize the sauce so it doesn’t separate.
- If the sauce seems too thin after adding reserved pasta water, let it simmer gently for a few more minutes to thicken.
- Stir the sauce gently when adding pasta to avoid breaking the noodles.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-grated for better melting and flavor.
- Adding nutmeg is optional, but it brings a subtle warmth that balances the richness beautifully.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 700 per serving
- Protein: Around 45 grams
- Sodium: Depends on cheese and seasoning, roughly 700 mg per serving
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully in this recipe. They tend to be juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces like the breasts and follow the same cooking times. You might notice a richer flavor with thighs, which pairs well with the creamy sauce.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm the pasta and sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving without adding liquid as the sauce can dry out or separate.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely. Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative, use dairy-free cream or coconut cream, and replace the cheeses with dairy-free versions or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
What if I don’t have linguine?
You can easily substitute linguine with other pasta shapes like fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne. The sauce works well with many types of pasta. Just adjust cooking times as needed according to the pasta package instructions.
Conclusion
This creamy garlic butter chicken linguine skillet is one of those recipes that fits perfectly into busy lives without sacrificing flavor or indulgence. It combines simple ingredients into a dish that feels thoughtfully prepared and satisfying to the last bite. The blend of tender chicken, rich garlic butter sauce, and cheesy goodness wrapped around silky pasta is something I find myself coming back to time and again.
What I love most is how approachable this recipe is. You don’t need special skills or fancy equipment to make it feel special. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family after a long day or looking for a meal to impress friends without stress, this skillet dinner delivers. Plus, the variations mean you can easily customize it to your taste or dietary needs.
I encourage you to give this recipe a try and make it your own. Add your favorite herbs, spice level, or sides to suit your style. There’s nothing quite like sitting down to a plate of homemade pasta that’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. I hope it becomes a regular in your kitchen the way it has in mine.
Happy cooking and enjoy every bite!
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Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine Skillet
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (optional for a spicy kick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces linguine pasta
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and Cajun seasoning if using. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Lower the heat to medium and slowly stir in the heavy cream and softened cream cheese. Keep stirring until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
Step 5: Gradually add the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses to the skillet. Stir constantly until the cheeses melt and the sauce thickens. If the sauce feels too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
Step 6: Add the cooked linguine and the chicken back into the skillet. Gently toss everything together to make sure every piece of pasta and chicken is well coated in that luscious garlic butter cream sauce. Let it simmer on low heat for 1 to 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 7: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley, reserving a little for garnish. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 8: Serve the pasta hot, topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and an optional extra handful of Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 700
- Sodium: 700
- Protein: 45