Juicy golden-seared chicken bites coated in garlic herb butter, paired with ribbons of parmesan-coated linguine—this dish is pure comfort and flavor. It’s the kind of recipe you crave after a long day, where the sizzle of garlic hitting hot butter is basically therapy.

The creamy parmesan sauce is everything you want it to be: rich, luscious, and just garlicky enough without being overwhelming. When paired with golden chicken bites seasoned to perfection and a twirl of creamy linguine, it’s an indulgent dinner that comes together surprisingly fast.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Linguine is ideal here because it holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully without getting lost. You could swap it with fettuccine or tagliatelle if you prefer something flatter and wider. Just avoid anything too thin like angel hair—it won’t carry the sauce as well.

Ingredients for the Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine

Chicken breast or thighs – Boneless and skinless, cut into chunks; they sear quickly and soak in flavor.
Olive oil – For searing the chicken to golden-brown perfection.
Butter – This is the base of the garlic sauce, giving richness.
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic delivers that signature kick.
Italian seasoning – Adds a herbaceous blend to the chicken.
Heavy cream – The secret to that dreamy sauce texture.
Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated is a must for melty, salty goodness.
Linguine – Long and sturdy enough to coat with creamy sauce.
Salt and black pepper – To enhance and balance all flavors.
Red pepper flakes (optional) – For a hint of heat.
Fresh parsley – Brightens up the final dish.

How To Make the Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Toss the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on all sides until golden brown and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Base

Lower the heat to medium and add butter to the same pan. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese and let it melt, whisking until smooth. Season with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, boil linguine in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked linguine to the sauce, tossing to coat. Add splashes of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen. Fold in the seared chicken. Let everything warm through for 2–3 minutes.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Plate the pasta and chicken, then sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and extra parmesan. Serve immediately while creamy and hot.

How to Serve and Store Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine

Serve this dish hot from the skillet, with an extra sprinkle of parmesan and fresh herbs for a restaurant-style finish. A crisp green salad or steamed broccoli on the side adds freshness and balance.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce. Freezing isn’t recommended as the cream sauce may separate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I avoid overcooking the chicken?

Cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces and cook just until golden and no longer pink inside. Using a meat thermometer (165°F) can help ensure perfect doneness.

Can I substitute milk for heavy cream?

Milk can be used, but the sauce will be thinner. For a closer texture, combine milk with a little cream cheese or a roux (butter + flour).

What other proteins can I use?

Shrimp or salmon would be delicious swaps. Just adjust cooking times accordingly—shrimp cooks much faster.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free linguine and check that your parmesan and seasoning blends are gluten-free.

What herbs go well with this recipe?

Parsley is classic, but basil or thyme also complement the creamy garlic flavors beautifully.

Is this spicy?

Only if you add red pepper flakes. They’re completely optional and adjustable to taste.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If this creamy garlic butter chicken linguine made you swoon, check out a few more reader-favorite pasta recipes:

Try this ultra-cozy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli
For a bold and rich twist, don’t miss the Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo
Feeling a little spicy? You’ll love this Cajun Shrimp Scampi
Dive into comfort with this One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
Or keep it classic with this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use shrimp or chicken? Did you toss in some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes?

I love seeing how everyone puts their spin on it. And if you’re hungry for more, check out my Pinterest Life with Jam for daily inspiration and fresh ideas.

Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This creamy pasta dinner is the ultimate comfort food—juicy garlic butter chicken bites and velvety parmesan linguine, all made in one skillet. Rich, savory, and ready in under 40 minutes.