Ingredients

12 oz linguine

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1 tbsp lemon juice

½ cup chicken broth

½ cup heavy cream

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and black pepper to taste

Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the linguine in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken breasts for 5–6 minutes per side, until fully cooked. Remove from heat and slice the chicken.

Step 3: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and chicken broth. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes to combine the flavors.

Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream and stir until the sauce thickens slightly. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until the sauce is smooth. Adjust the sauce consistency by adding reserved pasta water as needed.

Step 5: Add the sliced chicken and cooked linguine to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta and chicken well with the sauce, and heat through for an additional minute.

Step 6: Serve the linguine immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Tips & Variations

Use smoked paprika for a deep, smoky flavor; regular paprika can be substituted if needed but will be milder.

Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the heat—add more for spicier results or omit entirely for a milder dish.

For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.

Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra texture and nutrition.

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute linguine with fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta shape.

How do I know when chicken breasts are fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear when pierced. Cooking for about 5–6 minutes per side over medium-high heat usually achieves this.