One-Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce

If you're craving pure comfort food luxury, this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce is the dish that will steal your heart. Imagine silky strands of linguine wrapped in a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce, topped with juicy slices of Cajun-seasoned chicken that pack flavor in every bite. It’s the kind of meal that feels restaurant-worthy yet comes together effortlessly at home—perfect for busy weeknights, date nights, or when you simply deserve something delicious.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 35 min Serves: 4 Calories: ~765

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Ingredients & What They Do

• Linguine Pasta (1 lb): The ideal noodle for clinging to thick, creamy sauces so every bite is coated.
• Chicken Breasts (2 large): Lean, tender protein that balances the richness of the sauce and soaks up seasoning.
• Olive Oil & Unsalted Butter: Olive oil keeps the sear crisp; butter adds richness and helps form the sauce base.
• Cajun Seasoning (1½ tbsp): Adds smoky, spicy depth and gives the chicken a punch of flavor.
• Fresh Garlic (4 cloves): The aromatic backbone of the sauce—bright and savory.
• Heavy Cream (2 cups): Creates the smooth, luxurious texture of a classic Alfredo.
• Velveeta Cheese (8 oz): Melts ultra-smoothly and guarantees a glossy, lump-free sauce.
• Mozzarella (1 cup): Adds stretch and creamy mouthfeel to the sauce.
• Parmesan (½ cup): Adds sharp, savory umami and helps thicken the sauce naturally.
• Smoked Paprika, Black Pepper, Kosher Salt: Layered seasoning for warmth, aroma, and balance.
• Fresh Parsley: A final herbaceous brightness to cut through the richness and add color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the linguine: Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook until al dente per package directions. Drain and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking; set aside.
2. Prep & season the chicken: Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. Pat dry and season both sides generously with Cajun seasoning.
3. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear 5–6 minutes per side until deeply golden and cooked through (internal temp ~165°F / 74°C). Transfer to a plate, let rest 5 minutes, then slice thickly.
4. Build the flavor base: Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet (keep the fond), add minced garlic and sauté 30–60 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it brown.
5. Create the Alfredo sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add Velveeta cubes, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt and the sauce turns thick and glossy.
6. Season to taste: Stir in smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Taste and add a touch more Cajun seasoning if you want additional heat or smokiness.
7. Toss with pasta: Add the cooked linguine directly to the skillet and toss until every strand is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, loosen with a splash of reserved pasta water until it reaches the desired consistency.
8. Plate & finish: Serve the pasta on plates, arrange sliced chicken on top (or to the side), spoon extra sauce over the chicken, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately.

Tip: Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water before draining — it’s a useful emulsifier if the sauce needs loosening.

Why This Recipe Is Loved

This dish checks all the comfort food boxes: creamy, savoury, and packed with bold flavor. The Cajun seasoning brings a lively contrast to the ultra-rich Alfredo, and the use of Velveeta ensures a reliably smooth, restaurant-style finish that’s simple to achieve at home.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Rest the chicken: Let it rest 5 minutes after cooking so juices redistribute and slices stay juicy.
• Grate your own Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents; freshly grated melts and blends better.
• Low heat when melting cheese: Keep the heat at medium to low once you add cheese to prevent separation or graininess.
• Adjust thickness: Use reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, to thin the sauce while maintaining creaminess.
• For lighter texture: Substitute half-and-half for part of the cream and stir in a little extra Parmesan to maintain richness.

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic bread: Perfect for sopping up extra Alfredo sauce.
• Steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus: Adds freshness and a pleasant crunch.
• Mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette: Cuts the richness and brightens the plate.
• Light white wine (Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc): Pairs well with creamy pasta and Cajun spices.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine in Alfredo Sauce proves that gourmet-tasting food doesn’t require complicated steps. With simple pantry ingredients, straightforward technique, and a few chef’s tips, you’ll have a decadent, crowd-pleasing meal that’s both easy and unforgettable. Perfect for weeknights when you want something special or for entertaining when you need an impressive, comforting dish.

Try it tonight: Make the recipe once and you'll understand why it's a go-to for anyone who loves comfort food with a kick.

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