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Garlic Parmesan Cheddar Chicken Linguine in Creamy Butter Sauce

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Garlic Parmesan Cheddar Chicken Linguine in Creamy Butter Sauce is a rich and comforting pasta dish made with golden seared chicken, tender linguine, and a velvety garlic-butter sauce packed with sharp cheddar and parmesan cheese.

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for cooking chicken)
  • 12 oz linguine pasta
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth or reserved pasta water (optional)
  • Chopped fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear in a hot skillet with olive oil or butter until golden and fully cooked, about 5–6 minutes per side. Remove and rest, then slice thinly.
  2. Boil linguine in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add cream and simmer for 2–3 minutes. Stir in parmesan and cheddar until melted and smooth.
  5. If sauce is too thick, add chicken broth or reserved pasta water to loosen.
  6. Add cooked linguine to the sauce and toss to coat.
  7. Top with sliced chicken, garnish with herbs, and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Add spinach or broccoli for extra greens and nutrition.
  • For a lighter version, use half-and-half and reduce butter slightly.
  • Don’t boil the sauce once cheese is added to prevent graininess.
  • Store sauce and pasta separately if making ahead to preserve texture.
  • Not recommended for freezing due to separation of creamy sauce.

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