Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe sizzle of freshly seared chicken fills my kitchen, igniting memories of cozy gatherings and hearty meals shared with family. Today, I’m thrilled to share my Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, a comforting dish that effortlessly blends tender chicken and a rich cowboy butter sauce over delicious linguine. Not only is this recipe a delightful escape from fast food, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. You’ll love how the robust flavors of garlic and spices meld together, creating a warm embrace in every bite. Plus, it’s a family-friendly option that even the pickiest eaters will adore. Are you ready to dive into this delicious adventure? Why is Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine a Must-Try? Comforting Flavor Explosion: This dish wraps you in layers of flavor, featuring garlic, paprika, and creamy goodness. Quick & Easy: With straightforward steps, you can whip up a homemade meal faster than ordering takeout. Family-Friendly: Perfect for everyone, even picky eaters will be back for seconds! Versatile Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to customize with shrimp or veggies for a twist. Crowd-Pleaser: Suitable for cozy gatherings or weeknight dinners, it’s guaranteed to impress your guests! Don’t forget to pair it with a crisp salad or some garlic bread for that ultimate indulgence! Check out my Honey Garlic Chicken for another family favorite! Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Ingredients • Dive into this creamy delight with the essential components! For the Chicken Chicken – This provides the main protein; you can substitute with chicken thighs for a richer flavor. For the Pasta Linguine Pasta – It forms the base of the dish; feel free to use any pasta of your choice to suit your preference. For the Sauce Butter – Adds a luxurious richness to the sauce; olive oil is a lighter alternative if desired. Garlic – A must for a robust flavor; fresh garlic offers the best taste experience. Paprika – Gives smokiness and vibrant color; try smoked paprika for an intensified flavor or cayenne for some heat. Lemon Juice – Balances the dish’s richness with acidity; vinegar can be used in its place if needed. Cream – Creates a luscious coating; substitute with milk or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter option. For Garnishing Herbs (e.g., parsley, oregano) – Fresh herbs elevate the flavor beautifully; they’re preferable over dried for this dish. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Step 1: Prep the Chicken Begin by seasoning the chicken pieces generously with minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of butter. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Step 2: Cook the Pasta While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, reserve a cup of pasta water and drain the linguine. Set aside, allowing it to stay warm while you prepare the sauce. Step 3: Make the Sauce In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce the heat to medium and add another tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Stir in the paprika, combining well to infuse the butter with flavor as you prepare the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine sauce. Step 4: Combine Ingredients Next, carefully add the cooked chicken back to the skillet along with the drained linguine. Pour in the lemon juice and cream, gently tossing everything together to coat the pasta and chicken in that luscious sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually stir in the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Step 5: Final Touches Allow the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. This will help thicken the sauce slightly while everything simmers together. Just before finishing, toss in freshly chopped herbs for an aromatic lift. Check for seasoning, then remove the skillet from the heat to serve up this hearty, comforting dish! Step 6: Serve and Garnish Plate the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine immediately for the best texture and warmth. To enhance presentation, sprinkle with extra fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Accompany this delicious dish with a side salad or garlic bread to make your meal truly complete and enjoyable. Make Ahead Options Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is an ideal dish for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can season and cook the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it after cooking to preserve its juiciness. Additionally, the sauce can be made a day ahead as well, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully overnight. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, just reheat the chicken and sauce in a skillet, add freshly cooked linguine, and toss everything together. To maintain the creaminess, adding a splash of reserved pasta water while reheating is key. You’ll relish a satisfying homemade dinner with minimal effort! Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Variations Feel free to make this dish your own and explore delightful twists! Seafood Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a delicious seafood variation that cooks quickly and adds an oceanic touch. Steak Variation: Use chunks of steak instead of chicken for a hearty and meaty twist, ensuring a beefy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sauce. Vegetable Boost: Throw in fresh spinach or bell peppers for an added nutrition boost and vibrant color in every bite. Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for those who crave a spicy finish—this will elevate the heat and flavor profile! Gluten-Free Option: Swap the linguine for gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing texture or taste. Dairy-Free Alternative: Use coconut milk or a creamy nut-based option instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free experience that still delights. Pasta Variety: Feel free to switch out linguine for your favorite pasta—penne or fettuccine also works beautifully in this creamy sauce. Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh basil or thyme for a fragrant twist, adding an unexpected layer of flavor that elevates the overall dish. For more delicious ideas, try out my Creamy Pesto Chicken Broccoli or spice things up with Crispy Poblano Chicken Tacos with Avocado Jalapeño Salsa! Expert Tips for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Perfect Chicken Temp: Ensure chicken reaches 165°F for juicy results; use a meat thermometer to avoid undercooking. Avoid Overcooked Pasta: Drain linguine while still al dente; it will continue to cook when combined with the sauce. Flavor Boosting Herbs: Fresh herbs elevate flavor significantly; add them just before serving for maximum freshness. Creamy Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you achieve the desired creaminess in your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. Experiment with Ingredients: Don’t hesitate to swap proteins or add veggies for a personalized twist on this comforting dish! What to Serve with Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Experience the joy of a beautifully crafted meal bursting with flavors that speaks to the heart and soul of comfort food. Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce, it adds a lovely crunch that complements the tender linguine. Caesar Salad: Crisp and refreshing, the romaine lettuce and zesty dressing balance the richness of the chicken and sauce perfectly. Roasted Asparagus: With a slight char, these greens bring an earthy flavor and a pop of color, enhancing both nutrition and presentation. Steamed Broccoli: Quickly steamed to retain its vibrant color and crunch, it adds a nutritious element that pairs seamlessly with the pasta. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they delightfully soak up the sauce, providing an indulgent twist on traditional pasta sides. Wine Pairing – Chardonnay: A chilled glass brings out the richness of the butter while cutting through the creaminess, enhancing the overall dining experience. **Dessert Suggestion – *Lemon Sorbet:* A refreshing finish to the meal, its tartness cleanses the palate and is a delightful contrast to the meal’s heartiness. Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy, this nutty side dish adds an interesting texture and packs in protein for an extra boost. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, its sweet crunch is a nostalgic pairing that complements the cowboy essence of your linguine. Fruit Salad: Combining seasonal fruits adds a refreshing sweetness to the meal, balancing the savory flavors of the dish beautifully. How to Store and Freeze Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm gently in a skillet. Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to prevent the sauce from drying out. Heat on low to maintain creaminess throughout the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. Assembly Tip: If preparing ahead, store the pasta and sauce separately, combining them right before serving for the best texture and flavor. Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner protein option, or use chicken thighs for enhanced flavor and moisture. When selecting chicken, look for pieces that are plump and free from any dark spots. If you can, choose organic or farm-raised chicken for the best taste! How should I store leftovers of Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine? For sure, store your leftover Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the pasta to cool down before sealing it to keep it fresh. When reheating, adding a splash of cream or a bit of reserved pasta water can help revive the creamy sauce. Can I freeze Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine? Absolutely! You can freeze Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing. For best results, I recommend freezing the pasta and sauce separately, thawing them overnight in the refrigerator, and then warming them gently together on the stove. What should I do if the sauce is too thick? Very! If your sauce turns out thicker than intended, simply add a splash of reserved pasta water or cream to loosen it up. Stir in gradually until you reach your desired consistency. This will help keep everything creamy and delicious without compromising the flavors! Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Absolutely! This dish contains gluten from the linguine and dairy from the cream and butter. If you’re cooking for anyone with gluten sensitivities, you can easily swap the pasta with a gluten-free alternative. For a dairy-free option, substitute the cream with a plant-based cream or cashew cream for a similar richness. How can I make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine spicier? You bet! To kick up the heat, you can add red pepper flakes or finely diced jalapeños while cooking the chicken. If you prefer, sprinkling some cayenne pepper into the cowboy butter sauce will give it a pleasant heat that enhances the dish’s flavor without overwhelming it! Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine: Creamy Comfort in Every Bite Discover the delightful Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, a comforting dish that blends tender chicken with a rich butter sauce over linguine. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 650 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 pound Chicken breasts Or chicken thighs for richer flavor.For the Pasta8 ounces Linguine Pasta Any pasta of your choice can be used.For the Sauce2 tablespoons Butter You can use olive oil as a lighter alternative.4 cloves Garlic Minced, fresh garlic is recommended.1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika or cayenne can be used for more flavor.2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Vinegar can be used instead if needed.1 cup Cream Use milk or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter option.For Garnishing2 tablespoons Fresh herbs (e.g., parsley, oregano) Fresh herbs are preferable over dried. Equipment large skilletPotMeat Thermometer Method Preparation StepsSeason the chicken pieces generously with minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through to 165°F.While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve a cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.In the same skillet, melt another tablespoon of butter over medium heat, and add minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the paprika to infuse the flavor.Carefully add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the drained linguine. Pour in the lemon juice and cream, tossing together to coat everything in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Just before removing from heat, toss in freshly chopped herbs for an aromatic lift. Check for seasoning before serving.Plate the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine immediately. Garnish with extra herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 75mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently, adding a splash of cream if needed. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
