Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Introduction
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a delightful meal that combines tender chicken with a rich and buttery sauce. This dish is packed with flavor and is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. It’s easy to make and will impress your family or guests.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great for many reasons. First, it’s simple to prepare with just a few ingredients. Second, it combines the comforting taste of pasta with juicy chicken and a zesty butter sauce. Lastly, it’s a fun twist on traditional pasta dishes that everyone will love!
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 and cook the linguine until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in the chopped parsley, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice. Remove half of this cowboy butter mixture and set 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 they are cooked through. Slice the chicken into strips.
- Return the cooked linguine to the skillet. Toss it with the reserved cowboy butter, adding pasta water if needed to create a creamy sauce.
- Top the linguine with the sliced chicken, garnish with extra parsley, and serve hot.
How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. This dish is best enjoyed warm right after cooking!
How to Store Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
You can store leftover Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until hot.
Tips to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
- Ensure the chicken is cooked fully to an internal temperature of 165°F.
- You can add more garlic or lemon juice according to your taste.
- For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.
Variation
You can make this recipe with shrimp instead of chicken. Simply sauté the shrimp until they turn pink and then follow the same steps with the butter and linguine.
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat linguine?
Yes! Whole wheat linguine makes for a healthier option and will still taste great with the cowboy butter sauce.
2. Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pasta instead of regular linguine to make it gluten-free.
3. How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a mild heat to the dish. If you prefer a less spicy version, you can reduce the amount or omit them altogether.
Enjoy making and savoring this delicious Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine!
