This indulgent pasta dish combines juicy pan-seared chicken with a rich, homemade garlic butter Alfredo sauce tossed with linguine. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy date-night meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
2 large chicken breasts, sliced in half lengthwise (to make cutlets)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp Italian seasoning
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Alfredo Sauce:
4 tbsp unsalted butter
5 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp salt (to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp nutmeg (optional, for depth of flavor)
½ cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
For the Pasta:
12 oz (340 g) linguine pasta
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Extra Parmesan, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package directions until al dente.
Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken
Season chicken cutlets with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and butter.
Sear chicken on each side for 4–5 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
Remove from skillet and keep warm.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt 4 tbsp butter. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Combine
Add the cooked linguine into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
Slice the chicken into strips and arrange over the pasta.
- Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
Serve immediately while creamy and hot.
Tips & Variations
Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
For a spicy kick, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes.
You can use fettuccine or spaghetti if linguine isn’t available.