If you have a craving for something truly luscious and comforting, let me introduce you to the Indulgent Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine Recipe. This dish is an absolute showstopper, combining tender, golden chicken pieces bathed in a fragrant garlic butter sauce with pasta smothered in a creamy Parmesan sauce that feels like a warm hug in every bite. It’s the kind of meal that transforms simple ingredients into a rich, satisfying experience that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat, this recipe hits all the right notes with its perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to making this dish sing, and you’ll find that each one plays a vital role in crafting those signature flavors and creamy textures. From the aromatic garlic to the nutty Parmesan, here’s what you’ll want on hand:
- 2 lbs Chicken breast or thighs: Provides protein and substance; cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- 3 tbsp Butter: Adds richness and depth to the dish; substitute with olive oil for a lighter version.
- 3 cloves Garlic: Contributes an aromatic flavor that’s essential for this recipe; fresh garlic is best for authentic taste.
- 1 tbsp Olive oil: Used for searing the chicken; can be replaced by butter or any cooking oil of your choice.
- 1 tsp Italian herbs: Enhances flavor; you can substitute with fresh herbs if available.
- 12 oz Rigatoni pasta: Holds the creamy sauce beautifully; feel free to use linguine or spaghetti if you prefer.
- 2 cups Heavy cream: Makes for a luxurious, creamy texture; light cream can be used for a lighter sauce.
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a rich, nutty flavor and helps to thicken the sauce; always opt for freshly grated.
- 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds a velvety texture; you can substitute with other melting cheeses if desired.
- 1 tsp Salt: Essential seasoning agent; adjust according to your preference.
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper: Essential seasoning agent; adjust according to your preference.
- 2 tbsp Chopped parsley: For garnish; adds a splash of color and freshness.
How to Make Indulgent Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken pieces dry with a paper towel — this helps ensure a beautiful golden sear. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. These seasonings will build the foundation of flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta and garlic butter sauce.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection
In a hot skillet, melt olive oil and butter together over medium-high heat. Once bubbly, add the chicken pieces and sear each side for 4 to 5 minutes until beautifully golden and thoroughly cooked. The combination of butter and oil not only crisps up the chicken but also infuses it with that indulgent richness.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta Just Right
While the chicken rests, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook until al dente — around 8 to 10 minutes. Be sure to reserve half a cup of pasta water before draining; this starchy liquid will be your secret weapon for adjusting sauce consistency later.
Step 4: Create the Velvety Parmesan Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt an additional tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until intoxicatingly fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and gradually stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens just enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Toss the drained rigatoni into the skillet, stirring well to coat each piece in that luscious sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the perfect silky texture that clings to your pasta beautifully.
Step 6: Assemble and Garnish
Slice your golden chicken into bite-sized pieces and arrange them over the creamy pasta. Sprinkle generously with chopped parsley and more grated Parmesan for that final layer of freshness and flavor. Serve immediately for best indulgence!
How to Serve Indulgent Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley brings a lovely burst of color and freshness that cuts through the richness, while an extra dusting of Parmesan amps up the cheesy goodness. For a little heat, a pinch of red chili flakes works wonders too!
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the creaminess. Garlic bread is another classic side that complements the flavors without overpowering. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also add a hearty touch.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Indulgent Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine Recipe in individual pasta bowls, topped with a sprig of fresh herbs for an elegant feel. Alternatively, layering the chicken atop the pasta in a warm casserole dish lets your guests dig right in family-style. Finish with a drizzle of herb-infused olive oil for an extra gourmet touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The chicken and creamy pasta will stay flavorful for up to 3 days, making it a perfect next-day meal that holds up well.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your Indulgent Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine Recipe, cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months, just be aware that texture may slightly soften upon thawing.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the creaminess without drying it out. You can also microwave it covered but pause to stir occasionally to ensure even warming.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs or breasts both work wonderfully—just keep an eye on cooking times to ensure your pieces are juicy and fully cooked. Thighs tend to stay more tender and moist.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream in the sauce?
You can use light cream or even a combination of milk and cornstarch to thicken, but keep in mind that heavy cream gives the sauce its signature indulgence and smooth texture.
What pasta types work best with this dish?
While rigatoni holds the sauce beautifully due to its shape, linguine or spaghetti will work just as well, giving you that classic creamy pasta vibe. Pick your favorite!
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Yes! Adding spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce can add wonderful flavor and color, making this dish even more satisfying and well-rounded.
How do I make the sauce less thick?
If your sauce becomes too rich or thick, a little reserved pasta water stirred in gradually will loosen it up while helping it cling perfectly to the noodles.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Indulgent Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine Recipe that brings comfort and elegance together effortlessly. I can’t wait for you to whip this up and share it with those you love—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have you coming back to the kitchen for more. Give yourself the joy of this rich, flavorful meal and savor every creamy, garlicky forkful!
Print
Indulgent Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Indulgent Garlic Butter Chicken with Velvety Parmesan Linguine is a rich and creamy pasta dish featuring tender, seared chicken breast pieces cooked in a luscious garlic butter sauce, combined with rigatoni noodles tossed in a velvety Parmesan cream sauce. This dish offers a flavorful and comforting meal perfect for a quick yet impressive weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 lbs Chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian herbs
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 3 tbsp Butter
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 oz Rigatoni pasta (or linguine/spaghetti)
- 2 cups Heavy cream
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Salt (for pasta water and sauce)
Garnish
- 2 tbsp Chopped parsley
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preparation: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels then season it generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs. Set aside while heating your skillet.
- Searing the chicken: Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the chicken pieces and sear them for approximately 4 to 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cooking the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions, roughly 8 to 10 minutes, until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
- Preparing the sauce: In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Combining pasta and sauce: Toss the drained rigatoni into the skillet with the creamy garlic sauce, stirring well to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serving: Slice the seared chicken into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on top of the creamy pasta. Garnish with chopped parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its best.
Notes
- You can substitute rigatoni with linguine or spaghetti based on preference.
- For a lighter sauce, use light cream instead of heavy cream and substitute butter with olive oil.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese enhances flavor more than pre-grated versions.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently to avoid curdling the sauce.
- Adding mozzarella cheese provides extra creaminess but can be omitted for a sharper Parmesan flavor.
