Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Linguine
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 cup heavy cream; 3/4 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 8 ounces linguine pasta; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

If I had to choose one dish to impress guests or satisfy my own comfort food cravings, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Linguine would be at the very top. The juicy, pan-seared chicken is perfectly seasoned and finished with a buttery garlic-parmesan crust, while the pasta is drenched in a rich, cheesy sauce that clings to every strand of linguine. It’s the kind of meal that fills the house with irresistible aromas and makes people hover near the stove, sneaking bites before it even hits the table.

I first made this dish on a chilly evening when I was craving something indulgent but still homemade—and wow, it delivered. The combination of creamy garlic sauce, melted mozzarella, and tender chicken creates a harmony of textures and flavors that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re cooking for your family or planning a cozy date night at home, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Linguine

This dish checks all the right boxes—flavor-packed, easy to pull together, and fancy enough to serve for special occasions. The chicken gets its flavor from a quick marinade and sear, while the linguine gets coated in a velvety parmesan cheese sauce that’s simple yet decadent. What really sets it apart is that final layer of shredded cheese melted over the pasta—comfort food taken to the next level.

Whether you’re a garlic lover, cheese fanatic, or just want a pasta dish that feels indulgent without needing a trip to a restaurant, this recipe is a winner.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For this recipe, I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they cook quickly and absorb flavor beautifully when marinated. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a richer taste and juicier texture—they work just as well and hold up nicely to the garlic parmesan crust.

The key is to slice the chicken into even portions or butterfly the breasts to help them cook evenly and soak up the seasoning. No matter which cut you choose, make sure it’s well-trimmed and patted dry before searing for that golden-brown finish.

Options for Substitutions

Don’t worry if you’re missing a few ingredients—this recipe is flexible enough to accommodate some swaps without losing its charm:

Chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely. Just adjust the cook time.
Linguine can be swapped with fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne if that’s what you have on hand.

Mozzarella can be substituted with provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a mild white cheddar for a similar creamy melt.
Heavy cream can be replaced with half-and-half or whole milk with a touch of cream cheese if you’re aiming to lighten it up.
Fresh garlic is ideal, but garlic powder works in a pinch—just use a lighter hand.

Dried herbs can substitute for fresh parsley or basil, though fresh always gives it that vibrant finish.

The goal is to keep the flavors bold and creamy, even if you’re customizing based on what’s in your kitchen.

Ingredients for This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Linguine

Each ingredient in this dish brings something special to the table—flavor, texture, or richness. Here’s why they matter:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – These are lean, tender, and perfect for searing. They hold flavor beautifully when seasoned.
Olive oil – For searing the chicken to a golden crust and adding a hint of richness.
Salt & black pepper – The essential baseline seasoning that enhances everything else.

Garlic (minced) – The star of the flavor profile, adding warmth and a savory punch to both the chicken and sauce.
Butter – Helps create a velvety base for the garlic parmesan sauce.
Heavy cream – This gives the sauce its rich, luxurious body that coats the linguine perfectly.

Parmesan cheese (freshly grated) – Adds deep umami flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
Mozzarella cheese (shredded) – Melts beautifully on top of the pasta, giving that gooey, cheesy finish.
Linguine pasta – A sturdy pasta that holds onto the creamy sauce, giving every bite flavor.

Italian seasoning – A fragrant blend of herbs that ties the dish together.
Fresh parsley (optional) – For garnish, freshness, and a pop of color.

Each of these ingredients works together to create a dish that’s savory, cheesy, creamy, and deeply satisfying.

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken breasts dry, then season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. If they’re thick, slice them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets for faster, more even cooking.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until beautifully golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and let it rest on a cutting board while you prepare the pasta and sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Linguine

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet you used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until combined, then whisk in grated parmesan. Let it simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked linguine to the skillet with the sauce, tossing gently to coat every strand. Arrange the pasta on a serving platter or large dish.

Step 6: Top with Cheese and Broil

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously over the pasta. Place under the broiler for 2–3 minutes, just until the cheese melts and starts to bubble.

Step 7: Slice and Add Chicken

Slice the rested chicken into strips and arrange them alongside the cheesy linguine. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

How Long to Cook the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Linguine

This recipe comes together surprisingly fast, especially for how rich and satisfying it tastes. Here’s a general timeline to help you plan:

Chicken cook time: About 5–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness.

Pasta cook time: 8–10 minutes for al dente linguine.
Sauce and assembly: 10–12 minutes total, including broiling.

Total time: Around 30–35 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels like a weekend indulgence.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Linguine

Pound the chicken slightly if it’s uneven to ensure even cooking.
Don’t skimp on seasoning—the chicken and sauce both need well-balanced flavor.
Use freshly grated parmesan for the best melt and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.

Reserve pasta water before draining—this starchy liquid is gold for loosening sauces without making them watery.
Don’t overcook the garlic—sauté just until fragrant, or it will turn bitter.
Broil briefly—just enough to melt the mozzarella without drying out the pasta.

Let the chicken rest before slicing—it helps the juices redistribute for extra tenderness.

These small touches are what turn a good dish into a truly great one.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though this dish is fairly straightforward, a few common mistakes can get in the way of perfection. Here’s what to avoid:

Overcooking the chicken – It dries out quickly, so use a thermometer if needed (165°F is ideal).
Letting the garlic burn – It only needs a minute in the pan before adding cream. Burnt garlic can ruin the entire sauce.
Using low-fat dairy – Substituting heavy cream with milk or low-fat alternatives will make the sauce thin and less creamy.

Forgetting to salt the pasta water – It’s your only chance to season the noodles from within.
Adding cheese too fast to hot liquid – Toss it in gradually, stirring to avoid clumps or separation.
Not letting the chicken rest – Cutting into it too soon causes juices to run out, leaving it dry.

What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Linguine?

Pair this indulgent main with lighter, fresh sides or small bites to balance the richness. Here are my top picks:

Garlic Bread or Herb Focaccia

The perfect vehicle to soak up that cheesy sauce.

Steamed or Roasted Broccoli

Adds a bright, green contrast to the creamy pasta.

Caesar Salad or Mixed Greens

Crisp, tangy, and refreshing alongside the richness of the main dish.

Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Zest

Light and zippy, it balances the savory chicken and cheese.

Cherry Tomato & Basil Salad

A cold, acidic side that brings freshness and a pop of color.

Creamy Tomato Soup (as a starter)

If you want a cozy, comforting meal from start to finish.

A glass of chilled white wine

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce and chicken.

These options keep your plate vibrant and your taste buds satisfied.

Storage Instructions

If you end up with leftovers (lucky you), this dish stores quite well. Here’s how to keep it tasting fresh:

Refrigerator: Store the chicken and linguine in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: You can freeze the chicken separately for up to 2 months, but the creamy linguine is best eaten fresh—dairy-based sauces tend to separate when thawed.

Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. The microwave works too, but go in short bursts to avoid drying out the chicken.

Pro tip: Slice the chicken before storing, so it heats more evenly later.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a general breakdown per serving (assuming 4 servings total):

Calories: ~740 kcal
Protein: 47g
Fat: 42g

Saturated Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 2g

Sugar: 3g
Cholesterol: 170mg
Sodium: 710mg

This is a hearty meal, so it’s definitely on the indulgent side—but it’s perfect for when you want something rich, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—it should read 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, slice the thickest part and make sure it’s white throughout with clear juices.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead. Reheat everything gently and cook the pasta fresh right before serving for the best texture.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a mix of whole milk and cream cheese, though the sauce may be slightly less rich. Avoid low-fat milk unless you’re okay with a thinner consistency.

Will this work with gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely. Use your favorite gluten-free linguine or pasta. Just be mindful of cook time, as some gluten-free varieties soften faster.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

You can, but freshly grated cheese melts better and gives a smoother sauce without the graininess that can come from anti-caking agents in bagged cheese.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s not spicy at all, but if you’d like a little kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic while sautéing.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Very much so! Kids tend to love the creamy cheese sauce and mild flavors. You can also cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces for easier eating.

Can I make this without broiling the cheese?

Of course. The broiling step is optional—it adds a golden, bubbly finish, but you can just stir in the mozzarella for a melty mix if preferred.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Linguine is the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug in food form. It’s rich without being overbearing, indulgent without being fussy, and best of all—it’s doable on a weeknight. Whether you’re looking to impress someone or just treat yourself to a homemade comfort meal, this dish will not disappoint.

Every forkful offers tender chicken, buttery garlic sauce, and cheesy linguine tangled in creamy perfection. It’s the kind of meal that earns its place in your regular rotation.