Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce

Introduction

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce is the epitome of comfort and indulgence — tender, golden chicken pieces tossed in a velvety Alfredo sauce infused with butter, garlic, and Parmesan, all coating perfectly cooked linguine. This dish marries Italian-inspired flavors with a luxurious, restaurant-style creaminess that’s easy enough for a weeknight yet elegant enough for special occasions.

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Origin and Cultural Significance

The Alfredo sauce originated in Rome, Italy, where chef Alfredo di Lelio created it in the early 1900s as a simple mix of butter and Parmesan to soothe his wife’s appetite. As it traveled to America, the sauce evolved — enriched with cream and garlic — to suit local tastes.
Today, Alfredo pasta dishes are cherished worldwide as symbols of comfort, romance, and indulgence. Adding garlic butter chicken gives this Italian classic a modern twist, reflecting the global fusion of flavors that defines contemporary cooking.

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Ingredients Quantity

(Serves 4)

For the Chicken:

1 pound (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream

1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup (120 ml) milk (optional, to adjust consistency)

1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

For the Pasta:

8 ounces (225 g) linguine pasta

Salt, for boiling water

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Optional Additions

Crushed red pepper flakes – for subtle heat

Sautéed mushrooms – adds umami depth

Spinach or sun-dried tomatoes – for color and freshness

Lemon zest – brightens the creamy sauce

Grilled shrimp or bacon bits – to elevate the dish even further

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Tips for Success

1. Cook pasta al dente: It should be firm enough to hold up to the creamy sauce.

2. Don’t overcook the chicken: Sear until golden and just cooked through to keep it juicy.

3. Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts more smoothly and prevents grainy sauce.

4. Control heat: Add cheese off the heat to prevent curdling.

5. Reserve pasta water: A splash can help thin and emulsify the sauce perfectly.

6. Serve immediately: Cream sauces thicken as they cool, so enjoy it hot and fresh.

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add linguine and cook until al dente (about 8–10 minutes).

Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through.

Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.

Add butter and minced garlic; sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Create the Alfredo Sauce

Pour in heavy cream and stir until smooth.

Add Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring continuously until melted and creamy.

Adjust thickness with milk or a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in sauce.

Add linguine and gently mix until evenly coated.

Simmer 1–2 minutes to let flavors meld.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan.

Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

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Description

This dish is rich, silky, and deeply comforting. The golden seared chicken brings savory depth, while the Alfredo sauce delivers luxurious creaminess balanced by the gentle sharpness of Parmesan and the warmth of garlic butter. Each strand of linguine is perfectly coated, creating a harmony of flavor and texture that feels indulgent yet perfectly balanced.

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Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 1/4 of recipe):

Calories: ~620 kcal

Protein: 36 g

Fat: 38 g

Carbohydrates: 40 g

Sugar: 2 g

Fiber: 2 g

Sodium: 640 mg

Calcium: 20% DV

(Values vary with portion size and optional ingredients.)

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Conclusion

The Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce is a timeless comfort dish that combines the richness of classic Italian cooking with everyday accessibility. Its creamy, garlicky perfection makes it a go-to for family dinners, romantic evenings, or anytime you crave a satisfying, soul-warming meal.

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Recommendation

Pair this dish with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creaminess beautifully. For a lighter version, substitute half the cream with evaporated milk or Greek yogurt for added protein.

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Embracing Healthful Indulgence

Though rich, this meal can be a balanced indulgence. Olive oil and lean chicken provide quality protein and healthy fats, while garlic and herbs offer antioxidants and flavor without excess salt. Enjoyed mindfully, this dish nourishes body and spirit — reminding us that true wellness lies in savoring wholesome ingredients, moderation, and moments of joy at the table.