Name: Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed; 8 oz linguine pasta; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp butter; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; ½ tsp smoked paprika; ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tbsp lemon juice; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ¼ cup chicken broth; ¼ cup heavy cream; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

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Introduction to Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

As a busy mom, I often find myself searching for that magic recipe that can pull together a delightful dinner in no time. Enter Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine! This creamy dish marries tender chicken and perfectly cooked linguine in a rich, buttery sauce. Just the aroma alone can lift everyone’s spirits after a long day. Whether you’re looking to impress family or want a simple yet flavorful meal on the table, this recipe is your trusty sidekick. Trust me, once you give it a try, it’ll quickly become a regular on your dinner rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine has everything a busy kitchen needs: it’s quick, simple, and utterly delicious. In just 35 minutes, you can present a dish that tastes like it’s been simmering all day! The creamy sauce wraps around the pasta and chicken, creating a comfort food experience. Plus, it’s versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Your family will be asking for seconds with this hearty meal!

Ingredients for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Let’s get to the heart of the matter: the ingredients! Each item in this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine recipe brings its own flair and flavor, making your dish rich and memorable.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and juicy, they’re the perfect protein for this dish.
Linguine pasta: Long and flat, it’s ideal for holding on to that creamy sauce.
Olive oil: A staple in my kitchen, it adds a fruity note and helps cook the chicken beautifully.
Butter: This is, after all, Cowboy Butter Chicken! It adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.
Garlic powder: A quick and easy way to introduce a deep, savory flavor.
Onion powder: It rounds out the seasoning and enhances the overall taste.
Smoked paprika: This spice gives a warm, smoky flavor that’s a little different from regular paprika.
Cayenne pepper (optional): A dash of heat, if you enjoy a little kick in your meal!
Salt and pepper: These are essential for enhancing all the flavors in your dish.
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Give your dish a pop of spice; add only if you like it hot!
Parsley: Fresh herbs brighten up the dish and add a pop of color.
Lemon juice: A splash of acidity helps balance the richness of the garlic butter sauce.
Grated Parmesan cheese: This cheesy addition gives an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.
Chicken broth: A bit of liquid gold that enhances the sauce without being overwhelming.
Heavy cream: This makes the sauce luxurious and creamy, perfect with the linguine.
Dijon mustard: Adds depth and a slight tang; trust me, you’ll love this secret ingredient!

For exact quantities, just scroll down to the bottom of the article where you’ll find a handy printable version. Feel free to swap in your favorites or what you have on hand. You might even consider adding some colorful veggies to boost nutrition!

How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine! The steps are straightforward, and I promise it’s a fun process! Just follow along, and in no time, you’ll have a dish that will wow your family.

Step 1: Boil the Linguine

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the linguine to the water and cook it until it’s al dente; this usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Remember, we want it to have a slight bite! Before you drain the pasta, scoop out about ¼ cup of that starchy pasta water; it’ll help us adjust the sauce later. Drain the linguine, but don’t rinse it. Rinsing removes that lovely starch that helps the sauce cling!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, it’s chicken time! Take those cubed chicken breasts and season them with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until it’s golden brown and fully cooked, about 6 to 8 minutes. You want it nice and juicy! Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate, leaving that flavorful oil behind.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt a generous half cup of butter over medium heat. As it melts, let the aroma envelop you! Now add garlic and let it sizzle for a minute—just until fragrant. Next, pour in the chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream and a splash of Dijon mustard. Stir and let this sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens up beautifully. Don’t forget to sprinkle in those optional red pepper flakes for a little heat!

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Pasta

Once your sauce is thickened to that perfect creamy consistency, it’s time to bring everything together! Toss the cooked chicken back into the skillet, followed by the drained linguine. Use tongs to mix everything well, ensuring each noodle and each piece of chicken is drenched in that delicious sauce. If it looks too thick, drizzle in some reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. Remember, we want it creamy, not clumpy!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

The final touch is important! Sprinkle the chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese on top for a fresh punch and a touch of elegance. Serve the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine warm, and watch everyone’s faces light up with joy. This dish not only looks beautiful but tastes even better!

Tips for Success

Always reserve pasta water; it’s a secret weapon for the sauce!
Don’t rush the chicken’s cooking; golden brown equals flavor.
Customize the seasoning to suit your family’s taste. Don’t be shy!
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor; it makes a difference.
Double the recipe for leftovers; it’s just as good the next day!

Equipment Needed

Large pot for boiling linguine (a Dutch oven works great too!)
Skillet for cooking chicken and sauce (cast iron adds great flavor)
Colander for draining pasta
Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
Tongs for tossing the pasta and chicken

Variations of Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a delicious twist that caters to dietary preferences.
Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for an extra nutritional boost.
For a lighter version, use half and half instead of heavy cream for a less rich sauce.
Experiment with different herbs like basil or cilantro to change up the flavor profile.
Make it a one-pot dish by adding uncooked linguine directly to the sauce with additional broth until cooked through.

Serving Suggestions for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Pair with a crisp garden salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette for freshness.
Serve alongside garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce; it’s irresistible!
A chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the creamy flavors perfectly.
For a pop of color, garnish with additional parsley or cherry tomatoes.

FAQs about Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

As I’ve shared this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine recipe with friends and family, a few common questions pop up. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions that I hope will help you on your culinary journey!

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While linguine holds the sauce beautifully, you could use fettuccine, penne, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times!

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free butter alternatives. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without the dairy!

What side dishes pair well with Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?

Serve it alongside a fresh garden salad or garlic bread. Roasted vegetables or a light soup would make for a lovely complementary meal!

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken and make the sauce in advance. Just keep them separate from the pasta. When you’re ready to eat, simply combine and reheat.

How can I adjust the spice level?

If you prefer a milder dish, feel free to omit the cayenne pepper and crushed red pepper flakes. You can always serve some hot sauce on the side for those who like an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

Cooking should be a joyful experience, and Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine embodies that sentiment perfectly. This creamy delight transforms a simple weeknight dinner into a moment of celebration for your family with its rich flavors and easy preparation. Each bite is like a warm hug, bringing smiles and satisfaction to the table. Knowing I can whip this up in just 35 minutes adds to the pleasure of cooking. So grab your apron and let this dish bring a little magic into your kitchen—because every meal should feel like a loving gesture to those we cherish!