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. Ideal for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe offers a burst of flavor that will impress your guests. The blend of lemon and garlic adds a refreshing twist, making every bite irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This dish takes only 25 minutes to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, lemon, and butter creates an unforgettable taste experience.
- Versatile Meal: Great for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings.
- Easy Cleanup: With just one skillet and a pot, you’ll spend less time cleaning up afterwards.
- Crowd-Pleaser: It serves four hearty portions, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Below is a list of essential equipment for this recipe.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Stirring spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Essential for evenly cooking the chicken and combining flavors in one pan.
- Pot for boiling pasta: A must-have to achieve perfectly cooked linguine.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results.

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: Season the Chicken
- In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Toss until all pieces are coated evenly.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet.
- Cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Lemon
- Once the chicken is cooked, add the remaining tablespoon of butter along with minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- Stir well and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 5: Prepare the Parmesan Sauce
- In another saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over low heat.
- Stir in heavy cream and garlic powder.
- Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese while stirring until creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Toss the drained linguine into the Parmesan sauce until fully coated.
Step 7: Serve
- Plate the creamy linguine first.
- Top it with golden garlic butter chicken.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot.
Enjoy your delicious 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 experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
- Lemon Wedges: Serve lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of lemon juice adds brightness to the rich flavors.
Pair with a Salad
- Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette complements the creamy pasta beautifully.
- Caesar Salad: For a heartier option, a classic Caesar salad adds crunch and flavor that pairs well with the chicken.
Offer Bread Options
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread for dipping in the creamy sauce. It’s perfect for soaking up extra flavors.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls can be served alongside as an alternative for those who prefer something light and fluffy.
How to Perfect Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine
Perfecting Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine involves attention to detail and a few key techniques. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out spectacularly.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance flavor significantly compared to dried alternatives. Always opt for fresh when possible.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the linguine just until al dente for the best texture. This will prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Control Heat Levels: Keep your skillet on medium heat when cooking chicken. This ensures even cooking without burning while developing a golden crust.
- Let Sauce Simmer: Allow the cream sauce to simmer gently before mixing in the cheese. This helps thicken it perfectly and creates a luscious texture.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your dish before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice based on your preference for optimal flavor balance.
Best Side Dishes for Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine
To create a well-rounded meal, consider these delicious side dishes that pair wonderfully with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy green contrast to the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil provides a crispy texture and earthy flavor.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side that balances richness.
- Grilled Zucchini: Grilled zucchini slices add smoky flavor and are simple to prepare alongside your main dish.
- Herbed Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa tossed with herbs provides fiber and complements the flavors of garlic butter chicken well.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is fun to eat and adds natural sweetness, contrasting nicely with savory elements of your meal.
- Spinach Salad: A spinach salad topped with nuts and cranberries brings crunch and sweetness while remaining light.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side that everyone will love.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine, avoiding certain pitfalls will help ensure a delicious meal.
- Not seasoning adequately: Failing to season the chicken and pasta can lead to bland dishes. Always taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can dry it out. Aim for golden, tender pieces by checking for doneness after 5-6 minutes.
- Skipping the al dente step: Cooking the linguine past al dente makes it mushy. Follow the package instructions closely for perfect texture.
- Not using fresh ingredients: Dried herbs and old garlic might reduce flavor. Use fresh garlic and herbs for vibrant taste.
- Overcomplicating the sauce: Adding too many ingredients can overwhelm flavors. Keep it simple with just butter, cream, and cheese for a creamy finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
- Best if consumed within 2-3 months for optimal taste.
Reheating Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake until heated through, about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to prevent sticking. Stir until heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine.
How do I make Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine gluten-free?
You can substitute regular linguine with gluten-free pasta options available at most grocery stores.
Can I use vegetables in Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine?
Absolutely! Adding sautéed spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers can enhance both flavor and nutrition.
What can I serve alongside Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine?
A crisp green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this dish to complete your meal.
How spicy is Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine?
This recipe is mild; however, you can add red pepper flakes for some heat according to your preference.
Final Thoughts
Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices to suit your taste. Try this recipe today for a comforting meal that will impress your family and friends!
Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine
Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Linguine is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken and a rich garlic butter sauce, served over luscious linguine. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, offering a burst of flavor with every bite. The zesty combination of lemon and garlic enhances the creamy pasta, making it an irresistible choice for family dinners. With minimal cleanup and hearty portions, this meal guarantees satisfaction for everyone at the table.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 8 oz linguine
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the linguine in salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat 2 tbsp of butter in a skillet over medium heat; cook chicken until golden brown (5-6 minutes).
- Add minced garlic, lemon zest, and juice to the skillet; simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- In a separate saucepan, melt remaining butter, stir in heavy cream and garlic powder, then gradually mix in Parmesan cheese until creamy.
- Toss the cooked linguine with the Parmesan sauce until well coated.
- Serve linguine topped with garlic butter chicken and garnish with fresh parsley.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
