Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine combines a perfect balance of creamy richness and zesty, savory flavors. The chicken is seasoned with paprika, garlic salt, and pepper, creating a flavorful base that is further enhanced by the silky cowboy butter sauce. The heavy cream adds richness, while the lemon juice provides a fresh, citrusy kick that cuts through the richness. It’s a comforting dish with a touch of heat from the red pepper flakes and is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for a hearty yet elegant meal.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch bites
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic salt
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

For the Sauce:

• ¼ cup (4 tablespoons / 57 g) cowboy butter, divided
• ¾ cup (178.5 g) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• ½ teaspoon lemon juice
• Lemon slices, for garnish
• Parsley, chopped for garnish

For the Pasta:

• 8 ounces linguine

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

Directions

For the Chicken:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken bites with paprika, garlic salt, kosher salt, and pepper.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet in a single layer, cooking for 6-8 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

For the Sauce:

3. Cook the Linguine: While the chicken is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine according to the package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
4. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt 2 tablespoons of cowboy butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream, garlic salt, and crushed red pepper flakes, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Combine the Chicken and Pasta: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce. Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss until the pasta is well coated in the creamy butter sauce. If needed, add a bit of reserved pasta water to reach your desired sauce consistency.
6. Finish the Sauce: Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of cowboy butter and the lemon juice. Continue stirring until the butter is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and glossy.

To Serve:

7. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the pasta to serving plates. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and substitute with sautéed mushrooms or another plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.
• Creamier Sauce: For an even richer sauce, add an extra ¼ cup of heavy cream or a bit more cowboy butter.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work perfectly in this recipe as they are tender and flavorful. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few extra minutes to cook.

2. What is cowboy butter?

Cowboy butter is a rich, flavorful butter made with garlic, lemon, parsley, and sometimes a bit of heat, giving it a zesty, tangy flavor that complements a variety of dishes.

3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

While it’s best to make the sauce fresh, you can prepare the cowboy butter in advance. Just melt it down when ready to use, and proceed with the recipe.

4. Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely! If you don’t have linguine, feel free to substitute with spaghetti, fettuccine, or any pasta you have on hand.

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

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, ensure the chicken is no longer pink in the center.

6. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, you can use dairy-free butter, coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and skip the Parmesan cheese garnish.

7. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce is too thin, you can simmer it a little longer to reduce it, or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken.

8. Can I freeze Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?

It’s not recommended to freeze the creamy sauce, as it may change in texture. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken and pasta separately and reheat with fresh sauce.

9. What is the best way to reheat creamy pasta dishes?

Reheat creamy pasta dishes gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or cream to help bring back the creamy consistency.

10. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Yes, adding vegetables like spinach, peas, or roasted bell peppers can be a great way to add color and extra nutrients to this dish.

Conclusion

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a creamy, flavorful pasta dish that’s quick to make but rich in taste. The combination of buttery sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta will have you coming back for seconds. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or an exciting new way to enjoy linguine, this dish is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves rich, creamy pasta with a touch of zesty, savory flavor. Enjoy!

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