Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe That’s Ready in 30 Minutes (Family Favorite!)

There’s something magical about a bowl of creamy chicken linguine that hits all the right notes—comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make. Maybe it reminds you of those family dinners where everyone cleaned their plates, or maybe you’re just looking for a cozy, satisfying meal to end a long day. Whatever the reason, this creamy chicken linguine recipe delivers everything you love about home-cooked food with none of the fuss.

In just 30 minutes, you can go from prepping your ingredients to twirling rich, creamy pasta on your fork. It’s the kind of recipe that feels fancy enough for guests, but easy enough for a weeknight dinner. And the best part? You probably already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen.

Let’s dive into why this chicken linguine deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Linguine Recipe

Comforting and Quick

• 30-minute total cook time means you can make it even on your busiest weeknight.
• Only one pot and one skillet needed for easy cleanup.
• A balanced meal with protein, carbs, and just enough richness to feel indulgent.

Family-Friendly Flavors

• Mild spices make it suitable for kids.
• You can easily adjust the heat level with optional cayenne and crushed red pepper.
• Great for leftovers and meal prepping.

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Linguine

Before you get started, gather all your ingredients. It helps to prep everything ahead so the cooking process flows smoothly.

Ingredient Table

Step-by-Step: How to Make Chicken Linguine

You’re just a few easy steps away from enjoying a plate of creamy, cheesy, flavor-packed chicken linguine.

Step 1 – Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your linguine and cook it until al dente. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes, but check your pasta package for exact instructions. Before draining, scoop out ¼ cup of the pasta water and set it aside—you may need it to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2 – Season and Cook the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season the cubed chicken breasts in a bowl with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 3 – Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes (optional). Stir well and let the mixture simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it begins to thicken. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water.

Step 4 – Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained linguine and gently toss until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce. Stir in Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5 – Serve and Garnish

Dish the creamy chicken linguine onto plates or into shallow bowls. Top with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Serve immediately while it’s hot and the sauce is silky.

Tips for the Best Chicken Linguine

Choose the Right Pasta

While linguine is ideal, you can use other long pastas like fettuccine or spaghetti. Whole wheat pasta is a great option for added fiber and a slightly nutty taste.

Adjust the Heat

If you’re not a fan of spice, simply omit the cayenne and red pepper flakes. On the flip side, if you love heat, feel free to double them.

Customize to Your Taste

• Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein.
• Add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms to boost nutrition.
• Use fresh lemon juice and fresh parsley for the best flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

Let the chicken linguine cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or chicken broth to restore the sauce’s smooth texture. You can also microwave it in 30-second bursts, stirring in between to heat evenly.

What to Serve With Chicken Linguine

Looking to round out your meal? Here are a few tasty side options:

• Garlic Bread or Cheesy Toast: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Simple Side Salad: A crisp green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness.
• Steamed Veggies: Green beans or broccoli add color and nutrition.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 560
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 1g
• Calcium: 150mg
  Note: These numbers are estimates and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Linguine

Can I make chicken linguine ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the chicken and even cook the sauce a day in advance. Store them separately and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

Can I use rotisserie or leftover chicken?

Definitely. Using pre-cooked chicken makes this dish even faster. Just skip the cooking step and add the chicken when you combine everything in the sauce.

Is there a way to make this chicken linguine healthier?

You can lighten it up by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reducing the butter slightly. Whole wheat pasta and added vegetables also make it more nutritious.

Can I freeze creamy chicken linguine?

Cream-based sauces don’t freeze very well as they can separate when reheated. If you do freeze it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat slowly with extra cream or broth to revive the sauce.

What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?

Letting the sauce simmer uncovered helps it reduce naturally. If it’s still too thin, stir in more Parmesan cheese or a tablespoon of cream cheese.

Conclusion

This creamy chicken linguine recipe checks all the boxes: fast, flavorful, and deeply comforting. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, whether it’s a quick family dinner or a cozy date night at home. You’ll love how easily it comes together and how satisfying each bite is.

Try this chicken linguine tonight and make it your own. Add your favorite veggies, turn up the spice, or keep it mild and classic. Either way, it’s a meal you’ll want to make again and again.

Tried this recipe? Leave a comment with your experience or share this post with a friend who needs a delicious dinner idea!

Creamy Chicken Linguine Recipe That’s Ready in 30 Minutes (Family Favorite!)

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• Author: Chef Rina
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

This creamy chicken linguine is a quick and comforting dinner featuring tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious garlic-Parmesan cream sauce with a bright touch of lemon. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.

 

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes

• 8 oz linguine pasta

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon butter

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Sauce Ingredients:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ¼ cup chicken broth

• ¼ cup heavy cream

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

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Instructions

 

• Cook the Pasta:
  Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine until al dente according to the package directions. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.

• Cook the Chicken:
  In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Season the cubed chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

• Make the Sauce:
  In the same skillet, melt the softened butter over medium heat. Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer gently for about 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.

• Combine:
  Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained linguine and toss everything together to coat in the sauce. Stir in Parmesan cheese, parsley, and lemon juice. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

• Serve:
  Garnish with extra chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve warm.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 560 per serving (estimated)