Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a deliciously rich pasta dish that brings together tender chicken and a garlicky, buttery sauce. This meal is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, showcasing bold flavors with each bite. The creamy sauce envelops every strand of linguine, making it a comforting favorite for pasta lovers.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Pasta
• For the Chicken
• For the Sauce
• Seasoning
• Garnish
• How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
• Step 1: Cook the Linguine
• Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 3: Make the Sauce
• Step 4: Combine Creamy Ingredients
• Step 5: Toss Together
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
• With Extra Parmesan
• Pair with Garlic Bread
• Add a Side Salad
• Top with Fresh Herbs
• Lemon Wedges on the Side
• Wine Pairing Suggestions
• How to Perfect Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
• Best Side Dishes for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
• Reheating Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?
• Can I use other types of pasta?
• How can I customize my Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?
• Is Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine suitable for meal prep?
• What can I serve with Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe can be made in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika creates a unique taste that elevates your meal.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine will impress everyone at the table.
• Comfort Food: With its creamy texture and savory chicken, this dish satisfies cravings for hearty comfort food.
• Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors make it appealing to children while still being enjoyable for adults.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready makes cooking smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the linguine evenly, ensuring perfect texture.
• Skillet: Used for cooking the chicken and creating the flavorful sauce in one pan.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements help maintain balance in flavor and consistency.

Ingredients

This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine features a rich blend of ingredients:

For the Pasta

• 12 oz linguine

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter

For the Sauce

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasoning

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Garnish

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Step 1: Cook the Linguine

Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook the linguine until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining and setting aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until fully cooked. Remove from heat, let rest, then slice into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Lower heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and chicken broth. Scrape up browned bits from the pan while simmering for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Creamy Ingredients

Pour in heavy cream and stir well. Let simmer for another 2 minutes until slightly thickened. Add Parmesan cheese while stirring until melted and smooth. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water for consistency.

Step 5: Toss Together

Add sliced chicken back to the skillet followed by drained linguine. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly in sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to let flavors meld.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from heat. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving immediately with extra Parmesan on top.

Enjoy your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine!

How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a delightful meal that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to make your dining experience even more enjoyable.

With Extra Parmesan

• Grate fresh Parmesan cheese over the top of each serving for an added layer of richness and flavor.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Serve alongside warm garlic bread to complement the buttery sauce and to soak up any extra sauce left on the plate.

Add a Side Salad

• A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the creaminess of the dish, adding freshness and crunch.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle additional chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor that elevates the dish.

Lemon Wedges on the Side

• Offering lemon wedges allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their pasta, enhancing the dish’s brightness.

Wine Pairing Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, which complements the flavors of the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine beautifully.

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How to Perfect Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

To ensure your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will elevate the flavor profile significantly compared to dried versions.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: For optimal texture, cook the linguine until it’s al dente; it will continue cooking slightly in the sauce.

• Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some reserved pasta water; it helps adjust sauce consistency without compromising flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Complementing your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine with side dishes can create a complete meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Caesar Salad – A classic salad featuring romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing pairs well with creamy pasta dishes.

2. Steamed Asparagus – Lightly seasoned steamed asparagus provides a healthy contrast and adds color to your plate.

3. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables brings sweetness and earthy flavors that balance rich pasta.

4. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers make for an easy-to-eat appetizer that enhances Italian themes.

5. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy garlic mashed potatoes offer comfort and pair wonderfully with any chicken dish.

6. Bruschetta – Toasted baguette slices topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze add a refreshing taste before diving into your main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Getting the perfect Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine takes some practice. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Not salting the water: Skipping this step can lead to bland pasta. Always season your boiling water to enhance the flavor of the linguine.

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for a golden brown on both sides and check doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F).

• Skipping the reserved pasta water: This starchy water helps the sauce cling better to the linguine. Always save a little to adjust sauce consistency if needed.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold cream or broth can shock your skillet, affecting how well they combine. Always let them sit at room temperature before adding.

• Neglecting fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds brightness and flavor. Don’t skip this step; sprinkle it on just before serving for the best taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Cooling: Let it cool completely before sealing, to avoid condensation inside the container.

Freezing Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

• Duration: Freezes well for up to 2 months.
• Container: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for best results.

Reheating Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if it seems dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a creamy pasta dish featuring seasoned chicken in a rich garlic butter sauce, ideal for weeknight dinners.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While linguine works great, you can use spaghetti or fettuccine as substitutes without compromising flavor.

How can I customize my Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color. You can also spice it up with more red pepper flakes!

Is Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and makes a fantastic meal prep option while retaining its flavors when reheated.

What can I serve with Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?

Pair it with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that satisfies all cravings!

Final Thoughts

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is an indulgent yet simple dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. With its creamy texture and robust flavors, it’s perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own!