Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy cowboy butter sauce is rich and comforting, while the chicken adds a satisfying protein element. It’s quick to prepare, taking only about 30 minutes, and is sure to impress anyone at the table. The recipe is customizable, too, so you can tweak the spice level or add your favorite vegetables. Whether you’re a fan of Italian-inspired dishes or Southern comfort food, this dish has something for everyone.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 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

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add the minced garlic, fresh thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes.

4. Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the drained linguine. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.

5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a chopped jalapeño to the sauce for extra heat.

• Vegetable Add-ins: Add sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes to the dish for more color and nutrients.

• Protein Swap: If you prefer, you can substitute the chicken with shrimp or even grilled steak for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute linguine with spaghetti, fettuccine, or any pasta shape you prefer.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While the dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Reheat before combining with pasta.

3. Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe includes red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the amount to your preference or leave them out entirely for a milder flavor.

4. Can I use olive oil instead of butter?

Olive oil can be used in place of butter, though the flavor and richness may differ. For a similar result, use a combination of olive oil and a little cream.

5. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. If you don’t have a thermometer, the chicken should be golden brown on the outside and no longer pink inside.

6. Can I add cheese to the sauce?

Yes! You can stir in some grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce for extra creaminess and flavor.

7. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free as well.

8. What other herbs can I use in the sauce?

Feel free to experiment with other herbs such as basil, oregano, or rosemary. Thyme and parsley work well, but other fresh herbs can add their own unique flavors.

9. How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Make sure to cook the pasta in plenty of salted water and stir occasionally while cooking. Once drained, toss the pasta with a little olive oil or butter to keep it from sticking.

10. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Be sure to thaw them completely before cooking, or cook them from frozen in a separate pan and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a deliciously creamy and savory dish that comes together quickly and is sure to please anyone at the table. With its rich flavors, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked linguine, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite. You can customize it to your taste with optional spices or vegetables, and it’s easy to make ahead for a stress-free dinner. Enjoy!

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