Delicious Butter Chicken Linguine for a Cozy Dinner

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Oh, friends, let me tell you about the magical moment Butter Chicken Linguine found its way to my kitchen table! One late night, after a wild flavor craving kicked in, I threw together this creamy butter chicken pasta twist that I wasn’t expecting to be a total game-changer. It started as just a quick idea — what if I fused the rich, smoky goodness of butter chicken with slick, tender linguine? Spoiler: It turned out to be a bold flavor winner that really transformed a weeknight meal into something oh-so-special.

The buzz from this Butter Chicken Linguine didn’t stop at my dinner plate. As I pulled forks from my flock of fellow food lovers, everyone’s eyes lit up with the first bites. That creamy butter chicken pasta melts together cozy comfort and spicy fun in a way that makes you want to shout, “Yes! More, please!” If you’ve ever wanted an Indian fusion pasta recipe that’s as comforting as your favorite classic but packs a flavorful punch, this one’s for you.

This isn’t just any spiced chicken pasta dish — it’s the kind of Butter Chicken Linguine that invites smiles, sparks happy dances, and turns leftovers into next-day celebrations! Whether you’re looking for a flavorful weeknight dinner that delivers or a new twist on an all-time favorite, let me invite you into this delicious corner of flame-kissed flavor and cozy creamy magic. Ready to stir up a pasta dinner like no other? Let’s dive into those ingredients and bring this Butter Chicken Linguine to life together.

Speaking of bold flavor twists, if you love this Butter Chicken Linguine, don’t miss another hit, the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet that’s packed with smoky comfort you can grab anytime from your regular grocery run. And once your taste buds are dancing, you might want to peek at this buttery, soulful Butter Chicken that’s pure delight on its own or tossed with noodles.

Ingredients You Need

Ingredients for Butter Chicken Linguine

This Butter Chicken Linguine ingredient list is all about bold flavors that actually work together! Here’s what you’ll gather for this creamy butter chicken pasta sensation:

  • 12 oz linguine pasta (or swap for fettuccine if you want a thicker noodle catch)
  • 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces (thighs keep it tender and juicy every time)
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger paste (you can swap fresh grated ginger if you have it handy)
  • 1 tbsp garam masala (this spice blend is the heart and soul of your spiced chicken pasta dish)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika (for that subtle smoky punch)
  • 1 tsp cumin powder
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder (or more if you like that extra heat kick)
  • 1 cup tomato puree (grab it during your normal grocery run—easily found in cans)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (for that creamy butter chicken pasta richness)
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (adds tang and balances the creaminess perfectly)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (I love adding extra cilantro to my Butter Chicken Linguine for that fresh, bright pop)
  • Optional: 1 tbsp butter chicken masala powder (this packs a bigger punch if you want a shortcut to bold flavor)

If time’s tight, buy pre-minced garlic and fresh ginger paste — quick shortcut for busy weeknights. Also, you can prep the chicken pieces ahead and store them covered in the fridge for up to 2 days to save time. This Butter Chicken Linguine recipe really shines with fresh herbs, so keep your cilantro fresh in a glass of water on the counter for the best garnish.

This Indian fusion pasta recipe gets its amazing taste from the combo of butter, cream, and the blend of whole spices and garam masala, giving you that perfect creamy warmth that you crave in comfort food with a twist.

If you’re new to Butter Chicken Linguine or love exploring more flavors, try a side of crispy garlic bread or a zesty cucumber raita to balance out the richness. And if you’re curious about another incredible butter chicken pasta dinner, check out this Butter Chicken Pasta (Indian Style Pasta) Recipe with a little extra spice punch.

Let’s Make Some!

Ready for this Butter Chicken Linguine to come to life right in your kitchen? Let’s get our pans sizzling and those flavors popping!

  • Cook the linguine in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente—usually about 9-10 minutes. Drain, save a cup of pasta water, and set aside. This foundation is key to that perfect linguine with butter chicken sauce.
  • Sear the chicken pieces: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in your chicken chunks, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until browned on all sides — about 5-7 minutes. Don’t worry if your Butter Chicken Linguine looks rough here; the real magic is coming!
  • Remove chicken and set it aside. In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add chopped onions and sauté until soft and golden, about 4 minutes.
  • Toss in garlic and ginger paste. Stir it all up until fragrant—your kitchen will start smelling like the soul of Butter Chicken Linguine already.
  • Now, sprinkle in garam masala, smoked paprika, cumin, turmeric, and chili powder. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes to bloom those spices, stirring up a serious flavor storm.
  • Pour in the tomato puree and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it go for about 10 minutes until thickened and smoky — don’t rush this step, it’s where your Butter Chicken Linguine sauce develops its rich character!
  • Stir in the cream and Greek yogurt, turning the sauce silky and luscious. Add salt to taste.
  • Return the chicken to the sauce and let it cook gently for another 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up that spiced chicken pasta dish goodness.
  • Toss in the cooked linguine directly into the sauce, stirring gently. If the sauce feels too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until your linguine with butter chicken sauce is perfectly creamy.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately. This Butter Chicken Linguine usually takes about 40 minutes from start to finish in my kitchen, making it a total weeknight winner with maximum flavor payoff.

While you’re stirring this up, your kitchen will be bursting with inviting aromas. I’ve found a quick shortcut by prepping the sauce base one day ahead and finishing the chicken with pasta the next — gives me a fast Butter Chicken Linguine dinner on super busy nights!

If you’re looking for another fantastic chicken pasta dinner twist, you’ll love the Cowboy Chicken Linguine for a Western flavor spin, great when you want something bold and familiar.

How to Serve Up This!

Butter Chicken Linguine plated and ready to serve

People literally do happy dances when this Butter Chicken Linguine hits the table with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a side of crispy garlic naan or toasted baguette. The creamy butter chicken pasta is balanced perfectly by the richness and spice, making it a dinner crowd-pleaser every time.

This Butter Chicken Linguine is perfect for weeknight dinners that need to be special but easy — my go-to when I want bold flavor without a ton of fuss. It’s also a knockout at casual dinner parties or game nights when you want to surprise friends with something that feels indulgent but still homemade.

Presentation tip: Serve it in wide bowls with a drizzle of extra cream and chopped cilantro on top. For an extra flavor adventure, add toasted cashews or a squeeze of lemon to brighten it up.

Leftover Butter Chicken Linguine makes fabulous next-day meals! I like to toss it with fresh spinach and reheat gently for a spiced chicken pasta dish upgrade. Sometimes I turn the leftover sauce into a butter chicken skillet with rice for a quick twist.

If you want more fusion flavor fun, try swapping the linguine for rice noodles for a creamy butter chicken pasta that’s got subtle Asian vibes, mixing up an Indian fusion pasta recipe that’s unexpected and delicious.

For more Butter Chicken Linguine inspiration, you’ve got to check out this Butter Chicken Pasta – Golden Grace Kitchen — their creamy take makes a beautiful pairing for your next pasta dinner night. And if you love tweaking sauces, this lively Butter Chicken Sauce Recipes and Modifications Facebook group is loaded with recipes and modifications for that next-level taste.

FAQs:

  • Will kitchen newbies succeed with this Butter Chicken Linguine?
    Absolutely! This recipe is straightforward, and the instructions guide you step-by-step. Don’t stress if your sauce looks a bit thick or thin at first—it all balances out when you toss in the pasta!
  • What if I mess up my Butter Chicken Linguine?
    Spoiler: It’ll still taste incredible. The bold spices and creamy sauce hide a multitude of sins. Taste as you go, adjust seasoning, and know every batch brings a little new flare.
  • Can I prep Butter Chicken Linguine ahead of time?
    Totally! Prep the sauce and chicken a day ahead and refrigerate—just warm up and toss with freshly cooked linguine. A big win for busy weeknights.
  • What makes this an Indian fusion pasta recipe?
    It’s the marriage of classic Italian linguine noodles with the rich, spiced butter chicken sauce that makes this pasta sing. The garam masala and creamy tomato base bring authentic Indian character to your pasta dinner.
  • How spicy is the spiced chicken pasta dish?
    You control the heat! Start with the chili powder amount suggested, and add more if you like it hot. I’ve balanced it so lots of flavor comes through without overwhelming heat.
  • Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
    Yes, but thighs stay juicier and more flavorful in this butter chicken pasta dinner. If you choose breasts, watch cooking times to avoid drying out.
  • Is Butter Chicken Linguine freezer-friendly?
    Sauce and chicken freeze well but pasta can get mushy. Freeze components separately for best texture and reheat together.
  • What sides go best with Butter Chicken Linguine?
    Try garlic naan, cucumber raita, or a fresh salad with lemon dressing to cut through richness. If you want more comfort pairings, check out the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet for another bold-flavored idea.
  • Any recommended swaps if I’m dairy-free?
    Coconut cream works beautifully in place of heavy cream here, giving a lovely tropical twist to your creamy butter chicken pasta.

Conclusion:

My Butter Chicken Linguine brings endless joy because it’s a trusty meal that turns any night into a flavor fest. These fruits of my late-night kitchen experiments landed as absolute favorites, showing me how comfort food with a twist can surprise your senses.

My Butter Chicken Linguine Flavor Secrets:

  • Using chicken thighs for juicy, tender bites
  • Blooming spices in butter before adding tomato puree for deep flavor
  • Balancing cream and Greek yogurt to get that perfect silky, tangy sauce

I’ve tested delicious variations like swapping linguine for fettuccine or rice noodles, trying extra heat with green chilies, and even turning it into a creamy butter chicken skillet for crowd-pleasing dinners. The original is my go-to for cozy nights, but the skillet style shines at casual gatherings.

Whether you make it for weeknight winners, weekend celebrations, or a lazy dinner that needs a kick, trust your taste buds and don’t be afraid to experiment — this Butter Chicken Linguine recipe is made to be your kitchen playground.

I am so excited for you to try this Butter Chicken Linguine! Dive into those flavors, share the love with friends, and get ready for a pasta dinner that’s as bold as your appetite. Don’t forget to swing by this buttery, soulful Butter Chicken and the Cowboy Chicken Linguine when you want more winner dishes with broad appeal.

Friends, happy cooking and even happier eating!

For the full Butter Chicken Linguine experience and beyond, check these out:

Print

Butter Chicken Linguine

Print Recipe

Butter Chicken Linguine combines the creamy, spiced flavors of classic Indian butter chicken with tender linguine pasta for a comforting and flavorful fusion dish.

  • Author: Nyla
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: Indian-Italian Fusion

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz linguine pasta
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger, grated
  • 1/2 cup tomato puree
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
  3. Add garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
  5. Stir in tomato puree, garam masala, cumin, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Simmer for 5 minutes to let the spices blend.
  6. Reduce heat to low; stir in heavy cream and yogurt. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
  7. Add cooked linguine to the skillet and toss well to coat with the butter chicken sauce.
  8. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve warm.

Notes

For extra richness, garnish with a drizzle of melted butter or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

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