Imagine juicy slices of chicken breast tossed with linguine, then bathed in a garlicky, herbed cowboy butter sauce with lemon, paprika, Dijon mustard, and fresh parsley. This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is the kind of meal that tastes indulgent but comes together quickly in one pan. Bold, buttery, and packed with layers of flavor, it’s a pasta night upgrade you didn’t know you needed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Rich cowboy butter brings depth and zing.
Linguine soaks up every drop of flavorful sauce.
Ready in under 30 minutes.
A satisfying balance of spice, creaminess, and protein.
Perfect for date nights or comfort dinners.
Ingredients for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, it all starts here.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Linguine pasta: This long, flat pasta is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and easy to cook, they provide a hearty protein base.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing the flavors of the dish.
Olive oil: A healthy fat that helps to brown the chicken and adds richness.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings a fragrant kick that elevates the dish.
Smoked paprika: This adds a subtle smokiness, giving the dish a cowboy flair.
Dried oregano: A classic herb that complements the chicken beautifully.
Red pepper flakes: For those who like a little heat, adjust to your taste.
Unsalted butter: The star of the show, creating that creamy, luscious sauce.
Lemon juice: A splash of acidity brightens the flavors and balances the richness.
Fresh parsley: Chopped for garnish, it adds a pop of color and freshness.
Grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle on top adds a savory finish that’s hard to resist.
For those looking to mix things up, consider adding a splash of heavy cream for an even creamier sauce.
If you’re in the mood for seafood, shrimp can be a delightful substitute for chicken.
All ingredient quantities are listed at the bottom of the article for easy reference and printing.
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Creating Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a breeze, and I’m here to guide you through each step.
Let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Cook the Linguine
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water.
Once it’s bubbling, add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente.
This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
When it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Don’t forget to save a splash of that pasta water; it can help loosen the sauce later!
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat up some olive oil over medium heat.
Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and black pepper.
Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet.
Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
This step is crucial for that juicy, tender chicken!
Step 3: Add Flavorful Ingredients
With the chicken cooked, it’s time to amp up the flavor.
Add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes to the skillet.
Sauté everything for 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant.
The aroma will be irresistible, trust me!
Step 4: Combine with Butter Sauce
Now, pour in the melted unsalted butter and lemon juice over the chicken mixture.
Stir everything together until well combined.
This is where the magic happens—the butter creates a rich, creamy sauce that coats the chicken beautifully.
Step 5: Toss with Linguine
Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing it gently with the chicken and sauce.
Make sure every strand of pasta is coated in that delicious butter sauce.
If it seems a bit thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the dish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
This adds a lovely touch of color and flavor.
Serve your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine hot, and watch as everyone digs in with delight!
Enjoy the creamy goodness and the smiles around the table!
Tips for Success
Don’t overcook the linguine; it should be al dente for the best texture.
Use fresh garlic for a more vibrant flavor; it makes a big difference!
Adjust the red pepper flakes to your heat preference; start small and add more if needed.
For a creamier sauce, consider adding heavy cream or a splash of pasta water.
Garnish generously with parsley and Parmesan for a beautiful presentation.
Equipment Needed
Large pot: For boiling the linguine. A deep skillet can work too.
Skillet: A non-stick skillet is ideal for cooking the chicken and sauce.
Colander: To drain the pasta. A slotted spoon can be a handy alternative.
Measuring spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and combining ingredients.
Variations
Seafood Twist: Swap the chicken for shrimp or scallops for a delightful seafood version.
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a hearty vegetarian dish.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra layer of heat.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a different flavor profile.
Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free linguine to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.
Serving Suggestions
Side Salad: Pair with a crisp Caesar or mixed greens salad for a refreshing contrast.
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up that delicious butter sauce.
Wine Pairing: A chilled Chardonnay complements the creamy flavors beautifully.
Presentation: Serve in a large bowl, garnished with extra parsley and Parmesan for a stunning look.
FAQs about Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Can I make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then toss it with freshly cooked linguine when you’re ready to serve. Just be sure to reheat gently to maintain that creamy texture.
What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?
If you’re looking for a change, shrimp or scallops work wonderfully in Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. For a vegetarian option, sautéed mushrooms or zucchini can add a hearty touch.
How can I make the sauce creamier?
For an even richer sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese to the melted butter mixture. This will elevate the creaminess to a whole new level!
Is Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine gluten-free?
Yes, it can be! Just swap out regular linguine for gluten-free pasta, and you’re good to go. Enjoy this delicious dish without worry!
What sides pair well with Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?
A crisp Caesar salad or warm garlic bread makes for perfect companions. They balance the richness of the dish and add a delightful crunch!
Final Thoughts
Cooking Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating moments.
The creamy sauce and tender chicken come together to form a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the soul.
Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe brings joy to the table.
It’s quick enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough for guests.
So, grab your ingredients and let the flavors transport you to a cozy kitchen filled with laughter and good company.
Trust me, this dish will become a beloved staple in your home!
A delicious and creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine recipe that combines tender chicken, linguine pasta, and a flavorful butter sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
8 ounces linguine pasta
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
Add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
Pour the melted butter and lemon juice over the chicken mixture, stirring to combine.
Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
For a creamier sauce, consider adding 1/4 cup of heavy cream to the butter mixture.
You can also substitute shrimp for the chicken for a seafood twist.
