Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine: A Creamy, Flavorful Delight

Looking for a dinner that’s both quick and packed with flavor? Look no further than Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine! This recipe is the perfect balance of tender, juicy chicken, a rich, buttery sauce, and a punch of spice. The combination of garlic, smoked paprika, and a hint of cayenne pepper creates a deep, smoky flavor that will have you coming back for more. Add in a creamy, tangy sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan, and you’ve got a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious.

What’s even better is that this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner. The tender linguine pasta soaks up all the flavor from the buttery sauce, and the chicken is perfectly seasoned to complement the richness of the dish. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or making a cozy dinner for two, Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is sure to please.

this RECIPE

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Creamy and Buttery

The creamy, buttery sauce is rich and indulgent, making this dish incredibly satisfying without being overwhelming.

2. Perfectly Seasoned Chicken

The chicken is seasoned with a blend of spices that bring out smoky, savory flavors. The slight kick from cayenne and crushed red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of heat.

3. Quick and Easy

With just 30 minutes of prep and cook time, this recipe is great for busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

4. Customizable

Whether you want to swap in shrimp or tofu, or add extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers, this recipe is super adaptable to your tastes.

5. Comforting and Hearty

With chicken, linguine, and a creamy sauce, this dish is hearty and comforting—just the kind of meal you crave after a long day.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Pasta:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
• 8 oz linguine pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Cowboy Butter Sauce:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Variations

Protein Swap:

If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can easily swap it out for shrimp or tofu. Shrimp cooks quickly and will soak up the buttery sauce beautifully, while tofu is a great plant-based option that will absorb all the flavors.

Gluten-Free:

To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap out the linguine pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta. It won’t change the overall flavor, and you’ll still get that creamy, rich sauce.

Vegetable Boost:

Want to add some extra veggies? Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers are all great choices. Spinach will wilt nicely into the sauce, while tomatoes add a burst of freshness and a slight tang.

Extra Heat:

If you love a spicy kick, don’t be afraid to increase the cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to amp up the heat in the sauce. You can also add a pinch of chili flakes if you like it even spicier.

Cheese Variations:

If you’re craving a sharper, more intense cheese flavor, try swapping out Parmesan for Pecorino Romano. For something more bold, a bit of blue cheese would add a unique twist to the dish.

Creamier Sauce:

For an even creamier sauce, feel free to add a splash more heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese. It will make the sauce even more velvety and decadent.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Linguine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken breasts and season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low. Add the unsalted butter, and once it melts, stir in the chopped parsley, lemon juice, grated Parmesan cheese, chicken broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well and simmer for 2-3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sauce and stir to coat. Then, add the cooked linguine and toss everything together, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to thin the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, ensuring the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in bowls, garnished with extra fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy the creamy, flavorful goodness!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Chicken breast can dry out quickly, so be sure to cook it just until it’s golden brown and no longer pink in the center.
• Use Reserved Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water helps bind the sauce to the pasta, giving it a silky, smooth texture. Don’t forget to save a little before draining!
• Adjust the Heat: Feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to your spice tolerance. A little goes a long way in this dish!

How to Serve

This dish is perfect as a stand-alone meal but can also be served with a side of garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables. Pair it with a glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, to complement the creamy, savory flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta will absorb more of the sauce, so you may want to add a little extra cream or chicken broth when reheating.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well, so feel free to make a big batch and store some for later. Just allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To reheat, warm in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use different pasta?

Yes! You can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti.

2. Can I use non-dairy substitutes?

Yes! You can use dairy-free butter and cream alternatives (like coconut cream) to make the dish dairy-free.

3. Can I add more veggies to this dish?

Absolutely! Spinach, bell peppers, or even zucchini would be great additions.

4. How do I make this dish spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. You can also use a hotter chili pepper in place of cayenne.

5. What can I substitute for Dijon mustard?

If you don’t have Dijon mustard, yellow mustard or whole grain mustard can work as alternatives.

6. Can I make this with shrimp instead of chicken?

Yes, shrimp works perfectly in this dish! Just be sure to cook them until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.

7. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare everything ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and reheat when ready to serve.

8. How can I make the sauce even richer?

Add a little more cream or some cream cheese for an extra creamy texture.

9. Can I use other cheese?

Yes, feel free to swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or add a touch of mozzarella for an even cheesier dish.

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

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Conclusion

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a flavorful, creamy, and indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its perfectly seasoned chicken, rich buttery sauce, and customizable options, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, with just a few simple ingredients, you can have a comforting meal ready in no time!

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