This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and creamy textures, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, this pasta dish delivers on taste and presentation. The combination of tender chicken, garlicky butter sauce, and perfectly cooked linguine creates an indulgent experience that everyone will love.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Flavor Packed: The buttery garlic sauce with Dijon and lemon elevates the dish, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor.
Versatile Meal: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe adapts beautifully to different occasions.
Comfort Food: With its creamy texture and hearty ingredients, this dish satisfies cravings while providing comfort.
Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference, allowing everyone to enjoy their perfect blend of flavors.

Tools and Preparation

To create this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine successfully, having the right tools makes all the difference. These essential items will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Skillet
Measuring cups and spoons
Chef’s knife
Cutting board
Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta efficiently without overcrowding.
Skillet: Ideal for sautéing chicken and preparing the sauce in one pan for easy cleanup.
Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures precision when slicing chicken or chopping ingredients like garlic and parsley.

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.

Ingredients:
– 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 (adjust to taste)
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– ½ cup chicken broth
– ½ cup heavy cream
– 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: Prepare 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 about 5-6 minutes per side or until fully cooked. Remove from heat, let rest, then slice into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Make 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 around 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Create Creamy Mixture

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

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Chicken

Add sliced chicken back into the skillet along with drained linguine. Toss everything together to coat evenly in the sauce. Cook for an additional minute or two to allow flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top for added flavor.

Enjoy your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine!

How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some ideas on how to serve this delicious pasta.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Chopped parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for added color and flavor.
Basil leaves: Add whole basil leaves for a fragrant touch.

Pair with a Salad

Caesar salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs well with the rich flavors of the linguine.
Mixed greens: Lightly dressed mixed greens provide a refreshing contrast.

Serve with Bread

Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
Crusty baguette: Enjoy a slice of crusty baguette to soak up the delicious sauce.

Offer Extra Cheese

Grated Parmesan: Provide extra grated Parmesan cheese for those who love a cheesy finish.
Crumbled feta: A sprinkle of crumbled feta can add a tangy twist to the dish.

How to Perfect Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

To make your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine even more delightful, consider these tips. They will help enhance the flavors and ensure perfect results every time.

Use high-quality chicken: Choose fresh, organic chicken breasts for better flavor and texture.
Don’t overcook the linguine: Cook pasta until al dente to maintain its perfect bite.
Adjust spice levels: Modify red pepper flakes according to your heat preference for a personalized kick.
Let the sauce simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps meld the flavors beautifully.
Reserve pasta water wisely: Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
Experiment with cheeses: Try adding different cheeses like mozzarella or goat cheese for unique variations.

Best Side Dishes for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Complement your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine with these delicious side dishes. Each adds its own unique flavor that pairs well with this rich pasta meal.

Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted in olive oil and garlic enhances your meal’s nutrition and flavor.
Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and balances the richness of the linguine.
Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing taste contrast.
Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutrients while keeping things light.
Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, garlic, and herbs makes an excellent appetizer before diving into your main course.
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad with cucumbers, olives, and feta enhances your meal’s Mediterranean flair.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted until slightly crispy create an elegant side that’s easy to prepare.
Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic and cheese provide comfort alongside your pasta dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Avoiding common mistakes can help ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

Ignoring pasta cooking time: Not following the package instructions for cooking linguine can lead to overcooked or undercooked pasta. Always check for al dente texture.
Over-seasoning the chicken: Too much salt or spices on the chicken can overpower the dish. Use a light hand with seasonings and adjust to taste.
Skimping on garlic: Garlic adds essential flavor to the sauce. Don’t rush this step; cook it until fragrant for best results.
Not reserving pasta water: This starchy water can help achieve the right sauce consistency. Always reserve some before draining your pasta.
Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh parsley brightens up the dish’s flavors. Don’t omit it, as it adds both color and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in an airtight container.
It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
You can freeze it for up to 2 months; just remember to label them.

Reheating Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm, stirring between each interval.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine that may help you during preparation.

Can I use other types of pasta for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?

Yes! While linguine is ideal, feel free to substitute with fettuccine or spaghetti if you prefer different shapes.

What can I add for extra flavor in Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?

Consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or spinach for additional flavor and nutrition. They pair well with the creamy sauce.

Is Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats nicely without losing flavor.

How can I customize my Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?

You can customize by adjusting spice levels or adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini based on your preferences.

Final Thoughts

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a delightful dish that balances rich flavors with creamy goodness. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your taste. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, give it a try and enjoy customizing it to suit your cravings!

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Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

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Author: Tina
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a creamy and flavorful pasta dish that elevates any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. With tender chicken coated in a rich, garlicky butter sauce, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this dish combines the indulgence of creamy linguine with a delightful hint of spice from red pepper flakes and the zest of lemon. Each bite promises comfort and satisfaction that will keep everyone coming back for more.

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 (adjust to taste)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp lemon juice
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Cook the linguine in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.
Season chicken breasts with salt, 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 on each side or until fully cooked. Remove from heat, let rest, then slice into bite-sized pieces.
In the same skillet, lower the heat and add butter. Stir in minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and chicken broth; simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
Pour in heavy cream and stir well until slightly thickened. Add Parmesan cheese while stirring until melted. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
Toss sliced chicken and drained linguine in the sauce until evenly coated. Cook for an additional minute to meld flavors.
Serve immediately garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian