Garlic Linguini
Garlic linguini with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a savory, satisfying dish perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the chicken breasts in boiling water until tender, then save the broth and cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Cook the linguini according to package directions, then drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic, chopped onion, sliced zucchini, sliced mushrooms, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Saute until the vegetables are crisp tender.
- Add the chicken broth to the skillet and heat through.
- Stir in the cooked linguini and cook for another 2 minutes until well combined and heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider marinating the chicken breasts in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs before boiling. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken can be a great substitute for the boiled chicken. For added depth, try incorporating fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Adjust the vegetable mix according to the season, possibly using asparagus or bell peppers for a twist. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the garlic linguini garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for added freshness. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad dressed in vinaigrette or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside Italian recipes like Easy Chicken Parmesan for an inviting family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Garlic Linguini contains roughly 128 calories, with 13g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value) and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 634mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to increase flavor and texture. Consider adding a protein source like chickpeas or tofu for a more filling dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, you can include red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables. Alternatively, finish the dish with a drizzle of chili oil or serve with sliced jalapeños on the side. Adjust to your heat preference for the best balance with the garlic and other flavors.
What can I substitute for linguini?
If you don't have linguini on hand, any pasta shape will work well, such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be good alternatives, providing different textures and flavors while still complementing the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).