Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a delicious and hearty dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, flavorful sauce. The dish gets its name from the buttery sauce infused with garlic, parsley, and a kick of heat from red pepper flakes. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion and is easy enough to whip up on a weeknight!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a great choice for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly tasty, bringing together the comforting flavors of butter and garlic with the freshness of parsley. Second, it’s a quick dish to prepare, making it perfect for busy days. Finally, the recipe is versatile – you can adjust the heat and ingredients to suit your taste!
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Ingredients
- 12 ounces linguine
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine until it is al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped parsley, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice. Remove half of this cowboy butter and set it aside.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook them in the skillet with the remaining cowboy butter for 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Slice the chicken into strips.
- Return the cooked linguine to the skillet. Toss with the reserved cowboy butter, adding pasta water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Top with sliced chicken, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine hot, with a sprinkle of additional parsley for garnish. It pairs well with a fresh side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also offer some grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who enjoy an extra cheesy flavor.
How to Store Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
To store leftover Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to a month. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to help maintain its creamy texture.
Tips to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Make sure to cook the linguine just until al dente. It will continue to cook when you toss it in the skillet.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer less heat, reduce the red pepper flakes or omit them completely.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add some spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Variation
You can customize Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine by substituting the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. Additionally, try adding lemon zest for more brightness or using whole wheat linguine for a healthier twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like! Fettuccine or penne would work great as well.
2. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for easy reheating during the week.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply replace the chicken with grilled vegetables or tofu, and ensure the butter is from a plant-based source if you want a vegan option.
