Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon paprika
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Alfredo Sauce:
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
For the Pasta:
12 ounces linguine
Reserved pasta water (about ½ cup, if needed)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine until al dente according to the package directions. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain.
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
Add 3 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Transfer the chicken to a plate and keep warm.
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.
Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese and mozzarella (if using). Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes, if desired.
Add the cooked linguine and toss until evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a little reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Return the chicken to the skillet and toss everything together. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until heated through.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with warm garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted broccoli or asparagus for a complete meal.
