Description

Looking for a dinner that feels indulgent but is easy enough for a weeknight? This Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine brings it all—quick prep, rich flavor, and a satisfying, restaurant-worthy finish. Tender chicken is pan-seared in garlic butter until golden and juicy, then paired with silky linguine tossed in a creamy Parmesan sauce. Whether you’re searching for easy dinner ideas, comfort food recipes, or quick meals for guests, this one hits the spot every time. It’s a go-to easy recipe you’ll keep coming back to for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon dried oregano

0.5 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

12 oz linguine pasta

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1.5 cups heavy cream

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

0.5 teaspoon black pepper

Salt to taste

0.5 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

0.25 cup reserved pasta water

Chopped parsley and extra chili flakes, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, oregano, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Coat chicken in the mixture and marinate for 15–30 minutes.

2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked (165°F internal temp). Set aside.

4. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add heavy cream and simmer 3–4 minutes. Stir in Parmesan, black pepper, lemon zest, and reserved pasta water to thin if needed.

5. Add linguine to the sauce and toss until fully coated. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.

6. Plate the creamy pasta, top with garlic butter chicken, and garnish with parsley and chili flakes.

7. Serve hot and enjoy the layered flavors!

Notes

Use chicken thighs for the juiciest texture and best sear.

Don’t skip the pasta water—it makes the sauce glossy and smooth.

Freshly grated Parmesan makes all the difference in both flavor and meltability.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner / Pasta
Method: Skillet + Boiled Pasta
Cuisine: American / Italian-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 710
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 410mg
Fat: 40g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 41g
Cholesterol: 165mg

Keywords: easy dinner, creamy pasta, garlic butter chicken, quick meal, comfort food, chicken pasta