Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a delightful pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, buttery sauce. The creamy texture and bold flavors make it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With its garlicky goodness and a hint of spice, this dish will impress your family and friends, making it a standout addition to your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to Prepare – This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
  • Rich and Flavorful – The combination of garlic, butter, and Dijon mustard creates a sauce that’s bursting with flavor.
  • Versatile Ingredients – You can easily adjust the spice level or substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand.
  • Perfect for Sharing – With four generous servings, it’s great for family meals or entertaining guests.
  • Comforting Dish – The creamy sauce and tender chicken make it a comforting choice that everyone will love.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Pasta strainer

Importance of Each Tool

  • Large pot – Essential for boiling the linguine evenly without overcrowding.
  • Skillet – Perfect for searing the chicken and creating the delicious sauce.
  • Knife – A good knife helps slice chicken easily and safely.
  • Cutting board – Keeps your workspace clean while prepping ingredients.

Ingredients

This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a rich and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender, seasoned chicken tossed in a garlicky, buttery sauce with Dijon, lemon, and a touch of spice. The creamy sauce coats every strand of linguine, creating an indulgent meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

For the Pasta

  • 12 oz linguine

For the Chicken

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes(adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream

For Topping

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Step 1: Cook the Linguine

Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook the linguine until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Season chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until fully cooked. Remove from heat, let rest, then slice into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

Lower heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and chicken broth while scraping up browned bits from the pan. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese

Pour in heavy cream and stir well. Let simmer for another 2 minutes until slightly thickened. Add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water for consistency.

Step 5: Combine Chicken with Pasta

Add sliced chicken back to the skillet along with drained linguine. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to let flavors meld.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top. Enjoy your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine!

How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Serving Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is all about enhancing its rich flavors while providing a delightful dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

  • Caesar Salad – The crisp romaine and creamy dressing complement the richness of the linguine.
  • Arugula Salad – A light arugula salad adds a peppery bite that balances the buttery sauce.
  • Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes and mozzarella provide a refreshing contrast to the pasta dish.

Add Crusty Bread

  • Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce, garlic bread is a must-have side.
  • Herbed Focaccia – This soft, flavorful bread pairs wonderfully with the rich taste of the dish.

Garnish with Extras

  • Lemon Wedges – A squeeze of fresh lemon juice enhances the flavors and adds brightness.
  • Extra Parmesan – Serve with additional grated Parmesan for those who love cheesy goodness.
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How to Perfect Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

To achieve the best version of Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, consider these helpful tips that will ensure your dish is flavorful and satisfying.

  • Choose Quality Ingredients – Use fresh chicken breasts and high-quality Parmesan for a richer flavor.
  • Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Cooking linguine al dente ensures it holds up well in the sauce without becoming mushy.
  • Adjust Spice Levels – Feel free to modify red pepper flakes according to your heat preference for a customized kick.
  • Use Fresh Herbs – Adding freshly chopped parsley right before serving brightens up the dish and adds color.
  • Reserve Pasta Water – Keep some pasta water handy as it helps adjust sauce consistency if needed.
  • Taste as You Go – Always taste your sauce before serving to ensure it meets your flavor preference.

Best Side Dishes for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Complementing your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine with the right side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that pair perfectly.

  1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus – Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil and roasted until crispy.
  2. Steamed Broccoli – Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli provides a green contrast to the rich pasta.
  3. Grilled Zucchini – Lightly seasoned zucchini grilled to perfection adds a smoky flavor.
  4. Mixed Green Salad – A simple mix of greens tossed in vinaigrette keeps things refreshing.
  5. Creamy Mashed Potatoes – Rich mashed potatoes create a comforting addition next to this pasta dish.
  6. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds sweetness and texture, perfect for summer meals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine can be simple, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

  • Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always use salt, pepper, and spices generously for a tasty dish.
  • Overcooking the pasta: Cooking linguine too long will result in mushy noodles. Follow package instructions carefully, checking at the al dente mark.
  • Not reserving pasta water: Forgetting to save pasta water can prevent you from adjusting sauce consistency. Always set aside some before draining.
  • Adding cream too quickly: Pouring in heavy cream without simmering first can affect the sauce’s texture. Allow other ingredients to meld before adding cream.
  • Rushing the sauce: Not letting the sauce simmer properly can result in underdeveloped flavors. Give it a few extra minutes for depth and richness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftover Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in an airtight container.
  • It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

  • Portion out servings into freezer-safe containers or bags.
  • The dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

  • Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warm.
  • Microwave: Transfer a serving to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  • Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water and stir until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a rich pasta dish made with seasoned chicken, a buttery garlic sauce, and creamy linguine.

Can I customize the spice level?

Yes! Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference. You can also add more or less as needed.

How do I make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine healthier?

You can use whole grain linguine instead of regular pasta and reduce the amount of butter or cream for a lighter version.

What pairs well with Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?

A fresh side salad or steamed vegetables complement this dish nicely, balancing its richness.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! While linguine works best for this recipe, you can substitute it with penne or fettuccine if preferred.

Final Thoughts

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is an indulgent meal that combines rich flavors with tender chicken and creamy sauce. It’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins for even more variety!

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Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine


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  • Author: Amanda
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a creamy and flavorful pasta dish that brings together tender, seasoned chicken and a sumptuous garlic butter sauce, all enveloped in perfectly cooked linguine. With bold flavors enhanced by Dijon mustard and a hint of spice from red pepper flakes, this indulgent meal is ideal for both busy weeknights and special gatherings. In just 30 minutes, you can impress family and friends with this comforting dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz linguine
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the linguine until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. Season chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side until fully cooked. Remove from heat and slice into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the butter. Stir in garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and chicken broth; simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Pour in heavy cream and mix well, letting it simmer for another 2 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in Parmesan cheese.
  5. Add sliced chicken back to the skillet along with linguine; toss to coat evenly in sauce. Cook for an additional minute or two to meld flavors.
  6. Serve immediately topped with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 135mg

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