Name: Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 12 ounces linguine pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 cup chicken broth or reserved pasta water; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; Salt and black pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe

Creating a scrumptious, hearty meal on a busy weeknight doesn’t have to be a challenge. This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a personal favorite, combining juicy chicken with rich, creamy sauce and tender pasta—all in just 30 minutes! Perfect for those evenings when you crave comfort food without the hassle of a lengthy cooking process, this dish is packed with flavors that’ll please everyone at your table.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Irresistibly Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is more than just another quick meal; it’s a delightful fusion of simplicity and taste. With tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and a luscious creamy sauce that clings to each strand of linguine, it’s designed to impress without exhausting your efforts. Here’s why this dish deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation:

Speedy Preparation: Whip it up in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Family-Friendly: Kid-approved flavors guarantee that even the pickiest eaters will be asking for seconds.
Budget-Friendly: Utilizing basic pantry staples, this recipe won’t break the bank.
Versatile: Pair it with a light salad or garlic bread for a well-rounded meal suitable for any occasion.

"This recipe was a lifesaver for a busy weeknight! The flavors were outstanding, and it was on the table in no time!" – A satisfied home cook

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Ready to dive into making this irresistible dish? This step-by-step overview will guide you through the process, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.

Cook your linguine and reserve some pasta water.
Sauté the chicken until golden and cooked through.
Prepare the Cowboy Butter Sauce packed with garlic and seasonings.
Combine everything in one pan for a glorious finish.

Let’s get this delicious meal rolling!

Everything You Need for This Recipe

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
12 ounces linguine pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 cup chicken broth or reserved pasta water
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste

Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a twist, or use whole wheat linguine for a healthier option!

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Step-by-Step Directions

Cook Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the linguine according to the package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining and set the pasta aside.
Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, cooking for 5–7 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare Cowboy Butter Sauce: Use the same skillet, melting the butter. Add the minced garlic, paprika, and optional red pepper flakes, sautéing for about a minute until fragrant.
Add Flavor Components: Mix in the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth (or reserved pasta water), scraping the browned bits from the pan while simmering gently.
Creamy Sauce Formation: Pour in the heavy cream and half the chopped parsley. Stir and simmer for 2 more minutes until the sauce lightly thickens.
Combine All: Return the chicken to the skillet and add the cooked linguine along with the parmesan cheese. Toss to coat evenly, adjusting the sauce consistency with reserved pasta water as needed.
Final Touches: Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Garnish with remaining parsley and extra parmesan before serving. Enjoy immediately!

Best Way to Serve

To truly savor the flavors of your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, consider the following serving suggestions:

Pair with a Refreshing Salad: A Caesar or mixed greens salad adds a fresh crunch that complements the creamy pasta beautifully.
Garlic Bread Delight: Serve with warm, toasted garlic bread for wealthy bites that won’t go unnoticed.
Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay enhances the overall dining experience.

Storage Tips

To keep your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine fresh for later, follow these simple storage tips:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Not recommended; the cream may separate when thawed.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring the sauce back to life.

Pro Chef Tips

Don’t Overcook Chicken: Tender chicken is key to this dish; use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
Simmer the Sauce Carefully: Avoid boiling the cream as it may curdle; simmer gently for best results.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley make a noticeable difference in flavor.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to explore creative twists to elevate your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine:

Add Veggies: Toss in fresh spinach or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrients.
Swap the Protein: Chicken can be replaced with shrimp or even grilled veggies for a vegetarian version.
Spice it Up: Increase the red pepper flakes for an extra kick or add some Cajun seasoning for a southern flair.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

It takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy weeknight meal.

Can I use different pasta?

Absolutely! While linguine is perfect, feel free to substitute with fettuccine, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta if needed.

What should I do with leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a bit of liquid to prevent drying out.

This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is so delicious and straightforward that it’s bound to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian