Ultimate Chicken Linguine: The Perfect Dinner Recipe for Big Families

When it comes to feeding a crowd, nothing beats a comforting pasta dish that brings everyone together around the table. This chicken linguine recipe combines the best of homemade ravioli techniques with the convenience of a quick weeknight dinner. Perfect for large family gatherings, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavors without the fuss.

Ingredients

• 1 lb linguine pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add linguine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season chicken cubes with salt, pepper, basil, and oregano. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until softened. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return chicken to the skillet. Add drained pasta and spinach. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce that coats the linguine perfectly.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot for the ultimate family dinner experience.

Expert Tips

• Make it ahead: Prepare the chicken and sauce components in advance for quicker assembly
• Double the recipe: Easily scale up ingredients to feed 8-10 people
• Customize toppings: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for variety
• Ravioli technique: Use leftover filling to make homemade ravioli with wonton wrappers

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other pasta types?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with fettuccine, penne, or even homemade ravioli for a special touch.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely! Most children love creamy pasta dishes. You can reduce the garlic and herbs for milder flavors.

Ultimate Chicken Linguine: The Perfect Dinner Recipe for Big Families

This comforting chicken linguine recipe combines homemade ravioli techniques with quick weeknight convenience, making it perfect for large family gatherings. It delivers restaurant-quality flavors with creamy Parmesan sauce, cherry tomatoes, and fresh spinach for an ultimate dinner experience.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Ingredients

• 1 lb linguine pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Method

 

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add linguine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Season chicken cubes with salt, pepper, basil, and oregano. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until softened. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
4. Return chicken to the skillet. Add drained pasta and spinach. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce that coats the linguine perfectly.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot for the ultimate family dinner experience.

Notes

Make it ahead by preparing chicken and sauce components in advance. Double the recipe to feed 8-10 people. Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for variety. Use leftover filling to make homemade ravioli with wonton wrappers.