The Comfort of Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Ever had a dish that just feels like a hug in a bowl? Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is exactly that! This creamy, savory pasta dish comes together in one pan and is a delightful blend of tender chicken and rich, buttery sauce that you won’t be able to get enough of. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be dreaming about it for days!

Why Make This Recipe

Why not dive into this culinary adventure? Here are a few reasons to whip up this delicious dish:

Easy Cleanup: One pan, minimal mess. You’ll thank yourself later when you don’t have a mountain of dishes to tackle.
Quick Family Meal: Bedtime is calling, and this meal can be on the table in no time. It’s perfect for busy nights when you still want something homemade.
Flavor Explosion: With garlic, smoked paprika, and fresh herbs, each bite is a celebration of yum! You might even want to break into a happy dance after tasting it. 🕺

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
8 oz linguine pasta
½ cup unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through (about 6-7 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
Cook the Pasta: In the same pot, cook the linguine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, but save a bit of pasta water for later (about half a cup).
Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Stir in smoked paprika, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes, then pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
Combine the Pasta and Chicken: Slice the chicken and add it back to the skillet along with the cooked linguine. Toss everything together, adding the reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency.
Serve and Garnish: Taste and adjust salt and pepper if necessary. Serve hot with fresh parsley, thyme, and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Dig in! 😋

How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine (Overview)

Making this dish is simpler than you might think! Start by cooking the chicken until it’s perfectly golden and set aside. Meanwhile, whip up the tangy Cowboy Butter sauce together with the garlic and spices while cooking your pasta. Once everything is cooked, mix it all together in one pan, and you’re left with a bowl of deliciousness! Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic — that flavor will take your dish over the top!

How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Plate up this pasta dish with a sprinkle of parsley for a pop of color. The golden-brown chicken nestled among the creamy linguine is not just a sight to behold; the aroma of buttery garlic fills the air, promising flavor in every forkful. You can even serve it with a side of garlic bread for that extra indulgent feel. Who could resist? 🍞

How to Store Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to revive its creamy goodness.

Tips to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Here are some handy tips to elevate your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine experience:

Timing is Everything: Make sure to cook the chicken first to avoid overcooking it while waiting for the pasta.
Ingredient Swaps: Try using shrimp instead of chicken, or for a vegetarian option, toss in your favorite veggies like bell peppers or spinach!
Texture Tips: For even creamier pasta, add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce before mixing in the pasta.

Variation

Feeling adventurous? You can sweeten the flavor profile by introducing some sun-dried tomatoes or a dash of lemon zest. If you want a vegetarian take, swap the chicken for roasted chickpeas or a medley of seasoned mushrooms. Delightful!

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Just cook your gluten-free pasta according to the package instructions.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the chicken and the sauce and store them separately until you’re ready to combine and heat.
How can I freeze this dish?
To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. When ready, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!