If you are looking for a dish that perfectly balances comfort and elegance, the Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe is absolutely a must-try. This recipe brings together tender, spice-kissed chicken and silky linguine pasta in a luscious, homemade creamy sauce that feels like a warm hug on a plate. With just the right amount of herbs, tangy lemon, and that irresistible Parmesan finish, every forkful bursts with rich, satisfying flavors that make weeknight dinners feel special without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key for this recipe. Each one plays a vital role in building the dish’s vibrant flavors and creamy texture, making the cooking process straightforward yet rewarding.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed: The star protein, tender and perfect for absorbing spices and sauce.
- 8 oz linguine pasta: Long, thin strands that hold the sauce beautifully for each bite.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity taste and helps to sear the chicken.
- 1 tbsp butter: Brings richness and a golden base for your sauce.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses the dish with savory warmth without overpowering it.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- ½ tsp smoked paprika: Introduces a gentle smoky edge to the chicken.
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional): Offers a hint of spicy kick for those who like a little heat.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to enhance every element.
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For an extra burst of spice to elevate the creamy sauce.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates a velvety sauce base with luscious mouthfeel.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh, herbaceous brightness to lighten the richness.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Adds a zingy contrast that balances the creamy components beautifully.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty finish that melts seamlessly into the sauce.
- ¼ cup chicken broth: Enhances depth and moisture in the creamy sauce.
- ¼ cup heavy cream: The ultimate ingredient for silky, indulgent texture throughout the pasta.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy complexity that elevates every bite.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe
Step 1: Cook the pasta to perfection
Start by cooking the linguine in well-salted boiling water until it reaches that ideal al dente texture—tender yet still with a bite. Be sure to reserve about a quarter cup of the pasta water before draining, as this starchy liquid will come in handy to adjust your sauce’s consistency later on, ensuring it clings perfectly to each strand.
Step 2: Season and cook the chicken
Next, coat the cubed chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper if you like heat, and salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high, then add the chicken cubes, cooking them until golden and fully cooked through; this seals in juices and layers flavor. Setting the chicken aside at this point allows you to build your luscious sauce without overcooking the chicken.
Step 3: Create the rich creamy sauce
Melt butter in the same skillet to capture any leftover chicken flavors, then add minced garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring gently as you incorporate Dijon mustard and crushed red pepper flakes if you want a spicy note. Let this simmer until slightly thickened, which creates the silky base your pasta and chicken will soak up.
Step 4: Combine pasta, chicken, and sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then toss in the linguine pasta. Stir everything together to coat the noodles fully in the creamy sauce. Now add Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and a splash of lemon juice which brightens the rich sauce and balances all the flavors. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually loosen it up with some of the reserved pasta water until you reach that perfect creamy texture.
Step 5: Final touches and plating
Give the dish a final taste test to adjust salt and pepper. When ready, garnish with extra parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan on top. Serve piping warm to enjoy that dreamy melt-in-your-mouth sensation that makes this Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe a favorite for all seasons.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley and grated Parmesan are the classic garnishes for this dish—parsley gives a splash of color and freshness, while Parmesan adds an irresistible salty finish. For a touch of elegance, you might also consider a few lemon zest curls or a drizzle of good quality olive oil on top.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. A crisp, green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness on the plate, and roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts provide earthy contrast. Warm, crusty bread is another excellent choice to mop up the sumptuous sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the linguine in individual shallow bowls topped with a sprig of parsley and a wedge of lemon for guests to squeeze. Alternatively, twirl portions around large forks and place them neatly on wide plates, allowing the sauce to pool artfully underneath for a restaurant-worthy presentation right at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The sauce tends to thicken in the fridge, so don’t worry if it looks a bit dense upon opening—it heats up beautifully with just a little extra moisture.
Freezing
The creamy sauce in this recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the cooked chicken and pasta separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing the sauce mixed in, as the cream may separate during thawing.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the creamy consistency. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure the dish heats evenly. Microwaving works too, but take care to stir often and add liquid as needed.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of linguine?
Absolutely! While linguine is ideal for holding the creamy sauce, fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne would work well. Just adjust cooking times accordingly for the pasta you choose.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute butter with dairy-free margarine and heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew-based cream alternative. Parmesan can be replaced with a vegan cheese if desired, though this will slightly change the flavor profile.
Can I prepare this dish for a crowd?
This Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe scales up nicely. Simply multiply ingredients accordingly and consider using a larger skillet or saucepan to cook the chicken and sauce evenly. Keep pasta warm in a covered dish while finishing the sauce.
How spicy is the recipe?
The spice level is mild unless you opt to use cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes. You can easily adjust the heat by adding more, less, or skipping those ingredients to suit your taste.
What is the best way to ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Cutting the chicken into even cubes and cooking it over medium-high heat just until golden and cooked through prevents overcooking. Also, letting the chicken rest a moment off the heat before mixing into the sauce helps keep it tender and moist.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe is proof that a simple collection of pantry staples can turn into a meal that feels indulgent and homemade at the same time. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing friends without any stress. Once you try it, you’ll likely find yourself making it again and again because comfort food doesn’t get better than this!
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Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Creamy Chicken Linguine is a delightful pasta dish featuring tender, seasoned chicken breast simmered in a rich and flavorful creamy sauce made with butter, garlic, Dijon mustard, and Parmesan cheese. Tossed together with perfectly cooked linguine and finished with fresh parsley and a hint of lemon juice, this recipe offers a comforting yet sophisticated meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Pasta
- 8 oz linguine pasta
Sauce
- 1 tbsp butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Season and cook chicken: In a bowl, season the cubed chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Prepare the creamy sauce: In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Let the mixture simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens, around 3-5 minutes.
- Combine pasta and chicken with sauce: Add the cooked chicken and linguine to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together to coat evenly. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and lemon juice. If the sauce is too thick, loosen it by adding a bit of the reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish the linguine with additional parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase cayenne pepper and crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter sauce.
- Reserve pasta water helps in adjusting the sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
- For a lighter version, reduce butter and cream quantities or substitute with half-and-half.
- Freshly grated Parmesan enhances flavor more than pre-grated.
