Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a delicious and creamy pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a rich butter sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in. The blend of flavors from garlic, lemon, and herbs makes this dish truly special.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is easy to follow and requires simple ingredients you may already have at home. It’s not only quick to prepare but also satisfying. The creamy sauce adds a robust flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken and linguine. Whether you are cooking for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine will impress everyone at the table.

How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Ingredients:

1/2 cup unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
12 ounces linguine pasta
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Directions:

In a bowl, season the sliced chicken with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
In the same skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic, Dijon mustard, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in lemon juice and heavy cream, stirring continuously. Once combined, add grated Parmesan and stir until melted into a smooth, creamy sauce.
Return the cooked linguine and chicken to the skillet. Toss thoroughly to coat with sauce. Gradually add reserved pasta water if the sauce needs thinning.
Sprinkle chopped parsley and extra Parmesan over the dish before serving.

How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine warm. You can add a sprinkle of extra parsley and Parmesan on top for garnishing. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely and place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to restore its creamy consistency.

Tips to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Make sure not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry.
You can adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
For a lighter version, use chicken breast instead of thighs.

Variation

Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. You can also swap linguine for other pasta types like fettuccine or penne.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but ensure that the chicken is fully thawed before cooking for even cooking.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and simply add it to the cooked pasta and chicken when ready to serve.

3. Is there a vegetarian option?
You can try swapping the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth in the sauce.