If you’re craving a comforting yet elegant pasta dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s the perfect balance of tender chicken, al dente linguine, and a luscious sauce that’s rich, tangy, and just the right amount of indulgent. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become your go-to for weeknight dinners or impressing friends without breaking a sweat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient here plays a starring role, from the tender chicken to the flavorful spices and creamy sauce components. These simple essentials come together to create a dish bursting with texture, color, and unforgettable flavor.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed: Provides juicy protein that soaks up all the seasonings perfectly.
- 8 oz linguine pasta: A long, flat noodle that clings to the creamy sauce like a dream.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps brown the chicken beautifully.
- 1 tbsp butter: Creates a silky base for the sauce and enhances depth of flavor.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Offers a mellow, aromatic punch without overpowering.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Adds a sweet, savory note that rounds out the seasoning.
- ½ tsp smoked paprika: Gives a gentle smokiness and vibrant color.
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional): For just a hint of heat that wakes up the palate.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to bring all the flavors together.
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a touch of spice in the sauce for those who love a kick.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Enriches the sauce for that luxurious creaminess.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes and color.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Cuts through the richness with a delightful citrus zing.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish that melts into the sauce.
- ¼ cup chicken broth: Provides depth and moisture to the sauce’s base.
- ¼ cup heavy cream: The secret to that irresistibly smooth texture everyone will love.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Brings complexity and a gentle tang that lifts the entire dish.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Linguine
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine until it is perfectly al dente, just a bit firm to the bite. Don’t forget to save about ¼ cup of the pasta water before draining; this starchy liquid is magic for adjusting the sauce later to the ideal consistency.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, season your cubed chicken breasts generously with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper if you’re feeling bold, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken pieces until they’re golden brown and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Set them aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter and let it coat the pan, creating a flavorful foundation. Add minced garlic or garlic powder, then stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and crushed red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Let this simmer gently until the sauce thickens and becomes beautifully creamy, which usually takes around 3 to 5 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Now for the best part: add the cooked chicken and drained linguine to the creamy sauce, tossing everything together so that every bite has a luscious coating. Stir in Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and a splash of fresh lemon juice. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is beautifully combined and heated through, transfer to plates or a large serving bowl. This Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe is ready to be devoured, and the aromas alone will have everyone crowding your kitchen.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley and an extra dusting of Parmesan are the quintessential garnishes here. They add a burst of color and bring a fresh, bright flavor that perfectly complements the creamy sauce.
Side Dishes
Keep it simple with a crisp mixed green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables. Garlic bread is also a classic choice, soaking up every delicious last bit of sauce on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls topped with a sprig of fresh parsley and a lemon wedge on the side for squeezing. For a rustic feel, present it family-style in a large wooden serving tray so everyone can help themselves.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which might be tough), store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. The sauce thickens upon standing, so a splash of milk or cream when reheating can bring back that lovely creaminess.
Freezing
This Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe isn’t the easiest to freeze because of the cream sauce, but if you do, cool it completely before freezing in a sealed container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a little chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Microwaving works too, but be sure to heat in short bursts to avoid overcooking the chicken or pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While linguine is perfect for holding the creamy sauce, fettuccine, penne, or even spaghetti would work beautifully and give you a slightly different texture experience.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with dairy-free margarine and use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative instead of heavy cream. Just keep in mind the flavor will slightly change, but it will still be delicious.
How spicy is this Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe?
The recipe includes optional cayenne pepper and crushed red pepper flakes, so you can easily adjust the spice level to your liking by adding or omitting those ingredients.
Can I prepare any steps in advance?
You can season and cube the chicken ahead of time, and even cook the pasta up to a day ahead, storing it lightly coated with olive oil in the fridge. Just assemble and heat the sauce fresh for the best result.
What wine pairs well with this creamy pasta?
A crisp Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully because their acidity balances the richness of the sauce and complements the flavors of the chicken and lemon.
Final Thoughts
Making this Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe at home is such a rewarding experience — not just because of the delicious result but the ease and joy of combining these simple ingredients into one memorable dish. Whether for a casual dinner or a special occasion, this recipe promises comfort and flavor in every bite. Give it a try and soon you’ll be sharing this favorite on repeat!
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Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Chicken Linguine recipe combines tender, seasoned chicken with perfectly cooked linguine pasta, all enveloped in a rich, flavorful cream sauce. Enhanced with Parmesan, fresh parsley, and a hint of lemon juice, it’s a satisfying and elegant dish ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 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 olive oil
- 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
- Boil linguine: Cook the linguine pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. This water will be used later to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
- Cook chicken: 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, then cook the chicken cubes until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add garlic powder if desired, then pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir well and let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Combine: Return the cooked chicken and drained linguine pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together to coat evenly. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, and lemon juice. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your preferred consistency.
- Serve: Plate the creamy chicken linguine, garnishing with additional parsley and Parmesan cheese as desired. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- For extra heat, increase the cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for a sharper flavor.
- Reserve pasta water is key to adjusting sauce consistency; do not skip.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently to prevent sauce separation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
