Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine: The Best Recipe with Flavor Explosion
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a delicious dish that brings together rich flavors and simple ingredients. This recipe combines tender chicken, creamy butter, and zesty spices, all tossed with al dente linguine. It’s a meal that not only satisfies your hunger but also excites your taste buds.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for an easy yet flavorful dinner option. With its short preparation and cooking time, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home. Plus, the combination of buttery goodness and a kick of spice makes it a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is sure to impress!
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Ingredients:
- 200 g unsalted butter
- 3–4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (to taste)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 lemon (juice and zest)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 300 g chicken breast, cut into strips
- 250 g linguine
- 1 tbsp olive oil for frying
- Optional: Parmesan & chili flakes for serving
Directions:
Make the Cowboy Butter: In a small pot, melt the butter. Sauté the garlic briefly, then stir in the mustard, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, lemon juice, zest, and parsley. Set aside.
Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and paprika. In olive oil, fry the chicken until golden brown. Add 2–3 tablespoons of the Cowboy Butter to the chicken.
Cook the Pasta: Boil the linguine in salted water until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
Combine Everything: Mix the pasta with the Cowboy Butter and chicken in the pan. Add a little pasta water if needed. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Serve your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chili flakes for extra heat if desired. You can also add extra chopped parsley for a burst of color.
How to Store Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
Tips to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Adjust the level of cayenne pepper according to your spice tolerance.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta; al dente offers the best texture.
Variation
For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also use vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
FAQs
1. Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta type you prefer, like fettuccine or spaghetti.
2. How spicy is this dish?
The heat comes from the cayenne pepper. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste.
3. Can I prepare the Cowboy Butter in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the Cowboy Butter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week.
Enjoy preparing and indulging in this rich and vibrant Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine! It’s a dish that’s not only easy to make but also a delight to eat.

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Ingredients
For the Cowboy Butter
- 200 g unsalted butter Melted for the sauce
- 3-4 cloves garlic, finely chopped Adds flavor
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard For a tangy flavor
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper Adjust to taste for spice
- 1 tsp smoked paprika For smokiness
- 1 lemon (juice and zest) Fresh for best flavor
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped For garnish
- to taste Salt & pepper For seasoning
For the Main Dish
- 300 g chicken breast, cut into strips Main protein component
- 250 g linguine Pasta of choice
- 1 tbsp olive oil for frying To cook chicken
- to taste Parmesan & chili flakes (for serving) Optional toppings
Instructions
Preparation of Cowboy Butter
- In a small pot, melt the butter.
- Sauté the garlic briefly, then stir in the mustard, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, lemon juice, zest, and parsley. Set aside.
Cooking the Chicken
- Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- In olive oil, fry the chicken until golden brown.
- Add 2-3 tablespoons of the Cowboy Butter to the chicken.
Cooking the Pasta
- Boil the linguine in salted water until al dente.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining.
Combining Everything
- Mix the pasta with the Cowboy Butter and chicken in the pan.
- Add a little pasta water if needed.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.