Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe
Introduction
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with rich and buttery linguine pasta. This recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With just a few ingredients, you can create a comforting meal that will impress your family and friends.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to love Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. Firstly, it is quick to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Secondly, the combination of buttery sauce, garlic, and spices gives the pasta a rich flavor that is hard to resist. Finally, it is a versatile dish; you can adjust the spices to suit your taste or include your favorite vegetables.
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Ingredients:
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Directions:
Creating Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is straightforward if you follow these simple steps:
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, chili powder, and smoked paprika.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant but not brown.
- Return the cooked linguine to the skillet with the garlic butter, tossing to coat. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of pasta water to help create a creamy sauce.
- Add the sliced chicken on top of the linguine, gently mixing everything together to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Sprinkle chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese over the top before serving for an extra touch of flavor.
- Plate the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine and adorn it with lemon wedges for a zesty kick.
How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine hot and fresh from the skillet. Make sure to add lemon wedges on the side to give a bright, citrusy flavor. You can also accompany the dish with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious buttery sauce.
How to Store Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta from drying out. It is best to enjoy the dish fresh, but reheating works well for a quick meal.
Tips to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
- Be sure not to overcook the chicken; that will keep it juicy and flavorful.
- Use fresh herbs for the best taste. If you don’t have parsley, basil or cilantro can also be great options.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to boost the nutrition of the dish.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by using shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist. Additionally, for a spice kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or using a spicy chili powder.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use whole wheat linguine instead of regular?
A1: Yes, whole wheat linguine is a great alternative that adds more fiber.
Q2: Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
A2: Absolutely! You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or vegan butter.
Q3: How do I know if the chicken is fully cooked?
A3: The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is no longer pink in the center.
Enjoy your cooking adventure with Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine! It’s a dish that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table.
