If you’re craving a comforting dinner that feels both special and effortless, you’ll love this Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe. Tender strips of chicken and perfectly cooked linguine are tossed in a lusciously rich, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce, punctuated with earthy mushrooms and an herby Italian kick. It’s the kind of dish that comes together in 30 minutes but tastes like you’ve been simmering over the stove all afternoon. Whether you’re feeding family or having guests, this recipe is a weeknight winner or a weekend treat—the ultimate way to satisfy any pasta lover!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this dish lies in its simple, honest ingredients—every component brings something to the party! Each item plays a role in building layers of savory, creamy, and aromatic flavor for a pasta dinner that’s as easy as it is irresistible.
- Linguine pasta: This classic pasta shape is ideal for soaking up every bit of that dreamy cream sauce.
- Chicken breasts: Thinly sliced, they cook quickly and stay wonderfully juicy in the sauce.
- Olive oil: Gives the chicken a lovely golden crust and a hint of fruitiness.
- Butter: Adds lusciousness and helps sauté the aromatics for extra flavor depth.
- Garlic: Infuses the sauce with irresistible aromatic warmth.
- Onion: Provides a subtle sweetness and heartiness that anchors the creaminess.
- Mushrooms: Offer earthy notes and a nice, meaty texture that pairs beautifully with chicken.
- Heavy cream: The key to that rich, velvety sauce that defines this Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe!
- Chicken broth: Brightens and balances the richness of the cream.
- Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, giving it irresistible depth and savory, nutty flavor.
- Italian seasoning: Brings all the beloved basil, oregano, and thyme vibes to the dish.
- Salt: Essential for drawing out all the best in your ingredients—don’t skip it!
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that finishes the sauce just right.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a little kick and extra dimension if you like a hint of spice.
- Fresh parsley: Sprinkled on top for a pop of color and freshness—it really brightens every bite.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Linguine
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the linguine. Give it a good stir, and cook according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente—just tender while still holding a bite. A quick taste test is always the best judge! Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside, making sure to reserve a splash of pasta water in case your sauce needs a little thinning later.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, season your chicken strips with a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers, then nestle in the chicken. Sauté for about 5–6 minutes, letting the edges get golden and the chicken cook through. Remove the cooked chicken to a plate—it’ll finish cooking in the sauce later and stay juicy!
Step 3: Sauté Garlic, Onion, and Mushrooms
In the same skillet, melt the butter and toss in the minced garlic, diced onion, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until the onions are soft and the mushrooms start to release their juices and pick up a little color. The aromas at this stage are worth pausing for!
Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce
With your skillet over medium heat, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir everything together, then let the sauce bubble gently for 4–5 minutes so it thickens just enough to coat the back of a spoon. Now’s the time to add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Whisk until everything melts together and the sauce turns silky smooth.
Step 5: Unite Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce
Add the cooked chicken (and any delicious juices) right back into the skillet, then tumble in the drained linguine. Use tongs to toss everything together until the pasta is bathed in creamy sauce and the chicken is nestled throughout. Adjust the consistency with a bit of reserved pasta water if needed—just enough to make things glossy and perfect.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Turn off the heat, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley all over, and top with a little extra Parmesan for good measure. Give your Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe one final toss and serve it up immediately for maximum flavor and creaminess. Pasta night just reached a whole new level!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe
Garnishes
A generous sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a lovely garden-fresh finish, while a shower of extra Parmesan turns things ultra-savory—just let it snow! A grind or two of black pepper right before serving works wonders, too. If you love a touch of heat, a tiny pinch of crushed red pepper flakes on top gives your Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe some pep and color.
Side Dishes
This dreamy pasta is a meal on its own, but a crisp Caesar salad or garlic roasted broccoli makes a lively, refreshing contrast. Warm crusty bread or buttery garlic knots work wonders for mopping up every drop of that creamy sauce. If you’re feeling extra, a simple tomato salad or roasted asparagus adds seasonal flair.
Creative Ways to Present
For a restaurant-style touch, try twirling each portion into a loose nest before plating. Serve it in shallow bowls to showcase all the creamy sauce and juicy chicken. Garnish with microgreens, lemon zest, or even a drizzle of quality olive oil for brightness. If you’re hosting, scatter little bowls of extra Parmesan, chili flakes, and fresh herbs on the table so everyone can customize their own bowl of Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), transfer any extra Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe into an airtight container and refrigerate. It’ll keep well for 2–3 days, and the flavors just keep getting more delicious as they meld.
Freezing
For best results, freeze just the sauce and chicken (without pasta) in an airtight container for up to two months—dairy-based sauces can separate a bit after freezing, but a gentle reheat helps bring everything back together. When you’re ready, simply cook up fresh linguine and toss it all together for a nearly instant dinner.
Reheating
To bring leftovers back to life, reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce as it warms, stirring until it’s smooth and creamy again. Be cautious not to overcook the chicken or pasta as you reheat, so everything stays tender.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While linguine is classic for this dish, fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne will work beautifully. The sauce is so delicious, it’ll pair well with any pasta you love.
Is there a way to make this Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe lighter?
Yes! For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half, or even use evaporated milk. You can also add a handful of baby spinach or chopped sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition and color without extra richness.
How can I add more vegetables?
This is a versatile Canvas! Try adding in a few handfuls of baby spinach, steamed broccoli florets, or sun-dried tomatoes along with the chicken for more texture, flavor, and a dose of greens.
What’s the best way to reheat this pasta without drying it out?
Always reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of extra cream, milk, or chicken broth to keep the sauce silky and smooth. Stir often and avoid high heat to protect the texture of the chicken and linguine.
Can I make this Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe ahead of time for a crowd?
Yes! Cook everything up to the step before tossing with the pasta, then refrigerate. Right before serving, rewarm the sauce with chicken, toss in fresh-cooked linguine, and serve. This makes last-minute entertaining a breeze and keeps the pasta perfectly al dente.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a giant, creamy hug on a plate, the Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe delivers every time. Give it a try and watch it become a fast favorite at your table—there’s just something magical about pasta, chicken, and a luxuriously silky sauce that brings everyone back for seconds!
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Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a rich and satisfying Creamy Chicken Linguine dish that combines tender chicken strips with a luscious Parmesan cream sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked linguine. This Italian-American favorite is sure to become a go-to recipe for a comforting and delicious meal.
Ingredients
Linguine Pasta:
- 12 ounces linguine pasta
Chicken:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Linguine: Boil linguine until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Season and cook chicken until golden brown. Set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: Sauté garlic, onion, and mushrooms. Add cream, broth, cheese, and seasonings. Simmer until thickened.
- Combine: Add chicken and linguine to the sauce. Toss to coat.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Enhance with spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 49 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
