Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine
Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich garlic butter sauce, served over creamy linguine. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, offering a comforting meal that everyone will love. The standout flavors of garlic and lemon elevate this dish, making it a must-try for any home cook looking to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon creates a deliciously rich sauce that infuses the chicken with incredible flavor.
- Versatile Meal: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special gathering with friends.
- Creamy Comfort: The creamy linguine complements the garlic butter chicken beautifully, ensuring every bite is satisfying.
- Family-Friendly: With its mild flavors and appealing presentation, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
To make Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the chicken evenly and allowing for easy stirring of ingredients.
- Pot for boiling pasta: A deep pot ensures that the linguine can cook evenly without sticking together.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes it easier to cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces quickly.

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. Add the linguine and cook until just al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside while you prepare the chicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Toss well so each piece is coated with the spices.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet:
1. Cook for about 5–6 minutes.
2. Stir occasionally until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 4: Make Garlic Butter Sauce
Add the remaining tablespoon of butter along with minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice:
1. Stir well.
2. Let it simmer for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Remove from heat once everything is coated in buttery goodness.
Step 5: Create Parmesan Sauce
In another saucepan:
1. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter over low heat.
2. Stir in heavy cream and garlic powder.
3. Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese while stirring until smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Combine Linguine with Sauce
Toss the drained linguine into the creamy Parmesan sauce:
1. Mix until every strand is fully coated.
Step 7: Serve
Plate the creamy linguine on each dish:
1. Top generously with garlic butter chicken.
2. 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 can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to present and enjoy this dish.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor.
- Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add extra zest as desired.
Pair with a Salad
- Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing offer a nice contrast to the rich pasta.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provide a refreshing balance to the meal.
Accompany with Bread
- Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread complements the dish beautifully, perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls are ideal for sopping up any leftover garlic butter sauce.
How to Perfect Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine
Perfecting Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine is all about technique and timing. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking skills.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality chicken will dramatically improve the flavor of your dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook until golden brown and cooked through for tender bites. Overcooking can lead to dryness.
- Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go! This way, you can control the seasoning levels perfectly.
- Reserve Pasta Water: If your sauce is too thick, adding a splash of reserved pasta water helps achieve the desired consistency.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps retain its juices for better flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine
Pairing side dishes with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized add color and nutrition.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a fresh crunch that balances the creamy linguine.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside your chicken.
- Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears add elegance and a smoky flavor when grilled properly.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad topped with citrus dressing can brighten your plate and keep it healthy.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice add both visual appeal and taste to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking the Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine can be a delightful experience. However, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can lead to dryness. Aim for 5-6 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting to season can result in bland flavors. Always season your chicken and pasta generously.
- Not Cooking Pasta Al Dente: Overcooked pasta can become mushy. Follow package instructions and test for a firm bite.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold cream or cheese can separate your sauce. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
- Ignoring Garnish: Skipping fresh parsley removes visual appeal. A sprinkle of parsley adds freshness and color to your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Best used within 2-3 months for quality.
Reheating Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until warmed through.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, add a splash of broth or water. Stir frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding the Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine recipe.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute linguine with any pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine or penne.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast or plant-based cheese alternatives that melt well.
How do I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking the chicken.
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can season and cook the chicken ahead of time. Just reheat it when ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
The Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different vegetables or spices according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try for a comforting meal that satisfies!
Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine
Indulge in the delightful experience of Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine, a dish that combines tender chicken with a rich garlic butter sauce and creamy linguine. This quick and comforting recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, features the aromatic flavors of garlic and lemon, elevating every bite into a culinary delight. With its family-friendly appeal, this dish is sure to impress both kids and adults alike, making it a go-to option for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 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
- 8 oz linguine
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Cook the linguine in boiling salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Heat 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat; cook chicken until golden brown.
- Add remaining butter, garlic, lemon zest, and juice to the skillet; stir until fragrant.
- In another saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over low heat; stir in heavy cream and garlic powder. Gradually add Parmesan cheese until smooth; season to taste.
- Toss linguine with the creamy sauce until well-coated.
- Serve plated linguine topped with garlic butter chicken and garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (350g)
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
