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Garlic Parmesan Cheddar Chicken Linguine in Creamy Butter Sauce
Introduction
Garlic Parmesan Cheddar Chicken Linguine is a luxurious yet approachable pasta dish that delivers layers of savory goodness in every bite. The tender chicken pairs perfectly with al dente linguine, all enveloped in a rich, buttery cream sauce infused with garlic, Parmesan, and sharp cheddar for a bold depth of flavor. This dish is an elevated take on classic Alfredo but with a sharper, cheesier twist that’s sure to satisfy any pasta lover.
Origin and Cultural Significance
This recipe draws inspiration from Italian-American cuisine, which has long celebrated pasta with creamy, cheese-based sauces. Linguine, an Italian pasta similar to fettuccine but slightly thinner, is traditionally used with seafood sauces but has been widely adopted for cream-based dishes as well. By incorporating cheddar, a cheese with British roots, this recipe reflects the blending of culinary traditions — creating a dish that is rich, comforting, and perfectly suited for home cooking in the modern kitchen.
Ingredients (with Quantities)
- 8 ounces linguine pasta
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Additions
- Red pepper flakes: Add for a little heat.
- Spinach or arugula: Stir in at the end for a fresh, earthy note.
- Mushrooms: Sauté with the garlic for a deeper umami flavor.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Add richness and tanginess.
- Lemon zest or juice: For brightness and to cut through the creaminess.
Tips for Success
- Cook pasta al dente: It will finish cooking slightly in the sauce, ensuring the perfect texture.
- Reserve pasta water: The starch helps bind the sauce and create a silky finish.
- Use freshly grated cheese: This prevents clumping and ensures smooth melting.
- Don’t overcook chicken: Remove it from the pan as soon as it’s no longer pink to keep it juicy.
- Simmer, don’t boil, the cream: Gentle heat helps prevent the sauce from breaking.
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine until al dente, according to package directions. Drain and reserve ½ cup of pasta water.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the Cream: Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Italian seasoning.
- Incorporate the Cheeses: Add cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Everything: Return the chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked linguine. Toss together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Description
This dish is a creamy, garlicky, cheesy dream on a plate. The linguine is perfectly coated in a velvety butter-cream sauce, with just the right amount of sharpness from the cheddar and nuttiness from the Parmesan. The chicken adds hearty protein, making this a complete meal that feels indulgent but approachable. Each bite is rich and comforting — the kind of dish that makes any night feel like a special occasion.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 1 ½ cups)
- Calories: ~620
- Protein: ~38g
- Carbohydrates: ~45g
- Fat: ~32g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Sodium: ~780mg
- Calcium: ~30% DV
(Values will vary based on portion size and ingredient brands.)
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Cheddar Chicken Linguine is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors — a restaurant-quality meal made right in your kitchen. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but impressive enough to serve at a dinner gathering.
Recommendation
Serve this dish with garlic bread and a light side salad to balance the richness. Pair with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, or opt for sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing, non-alcoholic option.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
For a lighter option, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half, use olive oil instead of butter, and choose a reduced-fat cheddar. Adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms boosts the nutritional value without sacrificing flavor. This allows you to enjoy the indulgence of a creamy pasta while keeping it a bit lighter and nutrient-packed.
Would you like me to create a homemade garlic butter cream sauce recipe that you can use in place of store-bought cream or sauce for an even fresher, more customizable version?