Creamy Garlic Chicken Linguine: 30-Minute Dinner Magic!
Are you looking for a quick and delicious meal that feels both fancy and comforting? Look no further! This Creamy Garlic Chicken Linguine is a delightful dish that you can whip up in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen!
Ingredients
To make this creamy pasta dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 8 ounces linguine pasta
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional for extra flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of the pasta water, and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Create the Garlic Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn! Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Combine
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the drained linguine. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy garlic sauce. Season with more salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the creamy garlic chicken linguine in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the garlic: To keep the flavor bright and fresh, sauté the garlic until it’s just fragrant.
- Customize your protein: Feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp or even a plant-based protein for a different twist on this recipe.
- Add veggies: For extra nutrition, toss in some spinach, cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli when mixing in the linguine.
Why You’ll Love It
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Linguine is a crowd-pleaser that perfectly marries flavors and textures. The tender chicken paired with the rich, creamy sauce coats the pasta beautifully, creating a comforting dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be modified to meet various dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
In just 30 minutes, you can serve up an impressive dinner that feels gourmet. So grab your apron and get ready to enjoy a plate of this creamy delight. Your taste buds will thank you!
Here’s to simple, delicious meals that make nights special! Enjoy!