Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy recipe to impress your family or friends, look no further than Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. This dish combines tender, flavorful chicken with rich and creamy sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked linguine. It’s a quick meal that feels fancy, making it perfect for any night of the week.
Why Make This Recipe
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is not just tasty; it’s also a complete meal packed with protein and comfort. The combination of spices and creamy sauce adds a unique twist to your typical pasta dish. Plus, it’s an excellent way to bring something new to the table without spending hours in the kitchen. This meal is sure to be a hit at any gathering or family dinner!
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces linguine
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch bites)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ½ cup cowboy butter, divided
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 lemon, sliced, for garnish
- ¼ cup chopped parsley, for garnish
Directions:
Step 1: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the linguine and cook until al dente (about 9-11 minutes). Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
Step 2: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Sear chicken bites seasoned with paprika, garlic salt, kosher salt, and pepper until golden brown and no longer pink in the center (about 3-4 minutes per side).
Step 3: Add dollops of cowboy butter to the skillet with the chicken; coat and cook an additional 3-4 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove chicken, and set aside, leaving butter and drippings in the skillet.
Step 4: Reduce heat to low. Add remaining cowboy butter, heavy cream, garlic salt, and crushed red pepper flakes. Scrape up browned bits and simmer until the sauce is smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Add cooked linguine and chicken to the sauce. Toss to coat. Stir in lemon juice and, if needed, a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Step 6: Serve with lemon slices and chopped parsley for garnish. Enjoy.
How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Serve cowboy butter chicken linguine hot, straight from the pan. Pair it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. The lemon slices on top add a nice touch of brightness, while the parsley gives it a vibrant look.
How to Store Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water if the sauce thickens too much in the fridge.
Tips to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken for the best tenderness.
- You can adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.
- If you don’t have cowboy butter, you can create a similar flavor by mixing regular butter with garlic and herbs.
Variation
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini. Additionally, adding some spinach or peas would enhance the flavor and provide extra nutrition.
FAQs
Q: Can I use another type of pasta instead of linguine?
A: Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti.
Q: Is cowboy butter hard to make?
A: Not at all! Cowboy butter is a simple mixture of butter and spices. You can make it at home or buy it pre-made.
Q: Can I freeze cowboy butter chicken linguine?
A: Although it’s best fresh, you can freeze the chicken and sauce separately. Cooked pasta doesn’t freeze well, so it’s best to keep it fresh and cook it when needed.
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a wonderful dish that brings joy to the table. With simple steps and delicious flavors, it’s easy to see why this recipe should become part of your regular rotation!
