Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine Skillet: A Comforting One-Pan Pasta Delight
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that unites rich, creamy flavors with the hearty substance of pasta. The Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine Skillet is one such meal. It brings together tender chicken pieces, a luxuriously smooth cheese sauce, and the subtle bite of al dente linguine—all made in one skillet.
This comforting dinner is perfect for cozy weeknights, small gatherings, or whenever you crave something hearty yet elegant. With ingredients that are likely already in your pantry and fridge, this recipe is both accessible and indulgent.
Let’s dive deep into this creamy, buttery, garlicky pasta dish and break down everything from ingredients to tips, variations, and serving ideas.
Ingredients Overview
This recipe balances flavor, texture, and aroma, starting with tender chicken and finishing with a trio of cheeses that melt together into a velvety sauce.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, adds depth and warmth)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Why This Recipe Works
This skillet dish is designed for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup. It works beautifully because each component plays a key role:
- The chicken brings protein and a hearty bite.
- Garlic butter enhances the chicken with a rich, fragrant base.
- Cream cheese and heavy cream form the silky backbone of the sauce.
- Mozzarella adds gooeyness while Parmesan introduces saltiness and depth.
- Nutmeg offers a subtle warmth that elevates the entire flavor profile.
Now let’s go through each step of the process to get that perfect skillet meal on your table.
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Cook the Linguine
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about half a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid helps loosen the sauce if it thickens too much later. Set the pasta aside.
2. Season and Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the chicken pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden on the outside and no longer pink in the center—about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté Garlic in Butter
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Lower the heat slightly to prevent burning, then add the minced garlic. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
4. Make the Cream Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the softened cream cheese until it melts into the cream. Add Parmesan and mozzarella gradually, stirring continuously to prevent clumping. Once the cheeses have melted and the sauce thickens, sprinkle in the nutmeg if using.
5. Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained linguine. Use tongs or a spatula to toss everything together, ensuring the pasta and chicken are coated evenly in the sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until the consistency is perfect.
6. Finish and Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Serve hot straight from the skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation.
Tips for Best Results
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for easier melting.
- Don’t skip the reserved pasta water—it’s a great way to adjust sauce thickness.
- Season each layer: salt the pasta water, season the chicken, and taste the sauce before finishing.
- Let the garlic sauté just until fragrant—burnt garlic will make the whole sauce bitter.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
While this recipe is delicious as written, it’s also very flexible. Here are some great ways to make it your own:
Protein Alternatives
- Swap chicken with shrimp, turkey breast, or even leftover rotisserie chicken.
- For a vegetarian version, use sautéed mushrooms or pan-seared tofu.
Pasta Options
- Use fettuccine, spaghetti, or tagliatelle in place of linguine.
- Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta also works well here.
Cheese Swaps
- Gruyère, fontina, or asiago can add complexity.
- For a stronger bite, stir in a touch of blue cheese.
Flavor Enhancers
- A splash of white wine in the garlic step can brighten the sauce.
- Add a handful of sun-dried tomatoes or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
- A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes gives the sauce a gentle heat.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty and rich, so it pairs well with lighter, crisp accompaniments:
- A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette or balsamic glaze
- Garlic breadsticks or a toasted baguette
- Steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus for freshness
Want to keep it casual? Serve the pasta straight from the skillet with a large spoon and some crusty bread to mop up the extra sauce.
Hosting dinner guests? Plate it in shallow pasta bowls, top with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs, and offer a chilled white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
Storage and Reheating
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat without compromising flavor:
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: While technically possible, freezing may alter the texture of the cream sauce. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
To Reheat:
- On the stove: Add a splash of cream or milk and warm on low heat, stirring gently.
- In the microwave: Reheat in short bursts (30–45 seconds), stirring in between and adding a little cream or water to maintain smoothness.
Why You’ll Love This Skillet Meal
There are countless pasta dishes out there, but this one stands out for several reasons:
Simplicity – You don’t need fancy equipment or complicated steps.
One-skillet ease – Less mess and faster cleanup.
Comfort factor – Every bite delivers creamy, cheesy goodness balanced by garlic and herbs.
Family-friendly – Kids and adults alike love it.
Whether you’re making dinner on a busy weeknight or looking to impress guests without a fuss, this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine Skillet delivers flavor, satisfaction, and comfort in every bite.
Make It Ahead
If you’re planning ahead for a dinner party or prepping for the week, you can absolutely get a jumpstart with this dish:
Cook the chicken and store it in the fridge.
Grate the cheeses and store in sealed containers.
Boil the pasta, toss with a bit of olive oil, and refrigerate.
When it’s time to eat, simply reheat the sauce in the skillet, add the chicken and pasta, and bring everything together in just minutes.
Nutrition Notes
While this dish is indulgent, it’s possible to lighten it up a bit without losing too much richness:
- Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk
- Reduce cheese quantities slightly
- Use low-fat cream cheese
- Add extra veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach
This helps balance the richness while still offering a satisfying, creamy experience.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine Skillet is more than a recipe—it’s a warm, hearty embrace in the form of food. It takes the best of comfort cooking and brings it into the modern kitchen with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Whether you’re a pasta lover, a cheese enthusiast, or someone who just wants an easy but impressive dinner in one pan, this dish hits all the right notes. Keep this recipe in your rotation, and you’ll always have a crowd-pleasing option at your fingertips.
From weekday dinners to weekend indulgences, this skillet pasta is sure to become a household favorite. The creamy garlic butter sauce wraps every strand of linguine and piece of chicken in a savory, cheesy hug that’s as delicious as it is comforting.
Printable Recipe Card
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine Skillet
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
- Cook linguine in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter. Add chicken, season, and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, add remaining butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Pour in cream, then add cream cheese. Stir until smooth.
- Add Parmesan and mozzarella gradually, stirring until melted.
- Season sauce with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Return chicken to skillet, add linguine, and toss to coat. Use reserved pasta water to adjust thickness.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.