Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine is a delightful dish that brings together juicy chicken and rich, creamy pasta for a meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe has you covered. The standout features include the aromatic garlic butter sauce that infuses the chicken and the luscious Parmesan linguine that makes every bite a treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, lemon, and butter creates a savory sauce that elevates the chicken to new heights.
- Creamy Comfort: The Parmesan linguine is creamy and satisfying, perfectly complementing the garlic butter chicken.
- Versatile Dish: Great for family dinners or special occasions, it fits any dining situation beautifully.
- Easy Cleanup: With minimal pots and pans used, you can enjoy your meal without the hassle of extensive cleanup.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools can make all the difference when preparing this delightful dish. Gather your essentials to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Mixing bowl
- Saucepan
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Essential for evenly cooking the chicken and mixing in flavors.
- Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures linguine is cooked to perfection without sticking.
- Mixing bowl: Useful for seasoning and tossing the chicken before cooking.
- Saucepan: Needed to create the creamy sauce that coats the linguine.

Ingredients
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
- 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
How to Make Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine
Step 1: Cook the Linguine
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
1. Add the linguine and cook until just al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
2. Drain and set aside while preparing the chicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
1. Toss well so every piece is evenly coated.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
1. Add seasoned chicken to the skillet.
2. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 4: Add Flavors
Add remaining tablespoon of butter along with minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the skillet.
1. Stir well to combine.
2. Let it simmer for approximately 12 minutes so that chicken absorbs all flavors.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over low heat.
1. Stir in heavy cream and garlic powder.
2. Gradually add Parmesan cheese while stirring until sauce is creamy and smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Toss drained linguine into the saucepan with creamy sauce.
1. Mix until pasta is fully coated.
Step 7: Serve
Plate your creamy linguine first then top with garlic butter chicken.
1. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot.
Enjoy your Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine!
How to Serve Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine
Serving Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine is a delightful way to impress family and friends. This dish pairs beautifully with various accompaniments to enhance its rich flavors.
Elegant Plating
- Use a wide, shallow bowl to plate the linguine. This allows the golden garlic butter chicken to sit on top, creating an appealing visual contrast.
Fresh Herb Garnish
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish just before serving. This adds a vibrant color and enhances the flavor profile.
Lemon Wedge
- Serve with a lemon wedge on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the dish and complement the buttery flavors.
Crusty Bread
- Pair with warm, crusty bread for dipping. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce.
Salad Accompaniment
- A light green salad or mixed greens can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy linguine, making for a well-rounded meal.
How to Perfect Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine
To ensure your Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance the overall flavor of the dish significantly.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your linguine is cooked al dente for the best texture and bite in each forkful.
- Let Chicken Rest: Allow the chicken to rest after cooking. This helps retain moisture and makes each piece juicier.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice according to your preference.
- Serve Immediately: For best results, serve this dish right after preparation while it’s hot and flavorful.
Best Side Dishes for Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine
Pairing side dishes with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine can elevate your meal experience. Consider these delicious options:
-
Garlic Bread
Crispy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread complements the rich flavors of the chicken and pasta. -
Steamed Broccoli
Bright green steamed broccoli adds color to your plate and provides a healthy crunch alongside creamy dishes. -
Caesar Salad
A classic Caesar salad offers a tangy twist that balances out the richness of your main course. -
Roasted Vegetables
Seasonal roasted vegetables add sweetness and earthy tones that enhance your meal’s overall flavor profile. -
Caprese Salad
Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide a refreshing contrast that pairs well with creamy pasta. -
Quinoa Pilaf
A light quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs offers a nutty flavor that complements both chicken and linguine without overwhelming them.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can lead to dryness. Aim for a golden color and ensure it’s cooked through without being overdone.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter or cream can create a lumpy sauce. Let them come to room temperature before adding them to your dish for a smooth consistency.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Skipping salt and pepper can result in bland flavors. Always season your chicken and sauce generously for maximum taste.
- Not Draining the Pasta Properly: Leaving excess water on the linguine can dilute your sauce. Drain it well and toss in the sauce immediately for best results.
- Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley enhances flavor and presentation. Always add a garnish at the end to elevate your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag.
- Best consumed within 2 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the dish in an oven-safe container, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in intervals of 1 minute, stirring between until hot.
- Stovetop: In a pan over low heat, stir occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine?
To make this dish, cook seasoned chicken in butter until golden, then prepare creamy Parmesan linguine separately and combine both just before serving.
Can I use different pasta types?
Yes! While linguine is recommended, you can substitute it with spaghetti or fettuccine based on your preference.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or spinach to enhance the dish’s flavor and nutrition.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
Use plant-based butter and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free version while maintaining delicious flavors.
Can I substitute chicken for other meats?
Absolutely! You can use turkey, beef, or lamb as alternatives while keeping the cooking times similar.
Final Thoughts
Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine is not just tasty; it’s also versatile! This dish allows you to customize it by adding vegetables or swapping proteins. Try it out today for an easy yet delightful meal that everyone will love!
Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a rich, buttery garlic sauce and creamy Parmesan linguine. This flavorful meal is not only quick to prepare but also perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. The aromatic blend of garlic and lemon elevates the taste of the chicken, while the creamy pasta provides a comforting base that will leave everyone wanting more. Plus, with easy cleanup, you can enjoy your meal without the stress of extensive dishes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 8 oz linguine
- 3 tbsp butter (divided)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Cook the linguine in salted boiling water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat and cook the seasoned chicken until golden brown (5-6 minutes).
- Add remaining butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, and juice to the skillet; simmer for about 12 minutes.
- In another saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over low heat; stir in heavy cream and garlic powder. Gradually add Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Toss linguine in the creamy sauce until fully coated.
- Serve by plating the linguine first, topped with garlic butter chicken and fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider including spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. If you're looking for dairy-free options, substitute plant-based butter and nutritional yeast for Parmesan cheese.




