If you’re after a dish that’s as bold as it is buttery, packed with cowboy spirit and brimming with garlic butter flavor, you have to try the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe. This hearty, savory pasta combines tender, spice-dusted chicken, a golden cowboy butter sauce, and silky linguine into a comforting main course that’s as perfect for weeknights as it is for impressing friends. Expect plate-licking goodness, thanks to a sauce that clings to every strand of pasta and juicy bites of chicken in every forkful!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe is in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a role—whether it’s adding color, a pop of flavor, or making the sauce utterly irresistible. Here’s what you need and why you’ll want every single element.
- Linguine Pasta (8 ounces): The wide, flat shape of linguine holds onto the butter sauce beautifully and offers just the right bite.
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast (1 pound, cut into bite-sized pieces): Quick-cooking and tender, these absorb all those cowboy seasonings for maximum taste.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): For golden, flavorful searing and a silky base for the sauce.
- Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon): Infuses the chicken with a smoky, slightly peppery depth that makes this dish stand out.
- Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon): Provides another layer of garlic savoriness that permeates the chicken.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Draws out flavors and balances all the richness in the dish.
- Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds gentle heat and complexity to both chicken and sauce.
- Unsalted Butter (½ cup): The star of the sauce, bringing creaminess and that signature cowboy butter flavor.
- Garlic Cloves, Minced (4): For bold, aromatic kick—the more, the merrier for garlic lovers.
- Dijon Mustard (1 tablespoon): Adds a tangy, bright punch that keeps the sauce exciting and balanced.
- Fresh Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon): Just a squeeze enhances everything with freshness and acidity.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (½ teaspoon, optional): For a zippy hint of heat; adjust to your comfort level.
- Fresh Parsley, Chopped (2 tablespoons): Scatters brightness and color right before serving.
- Fresh Chives, Chopped (1 tablespoon): Delivers a mild, oniony lift that makes every bite pop.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (for serving): That irresistible salty finishing touch—don’t skip it!
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Linguine
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in your linguine and let it cook until it’s perfectly al dente—about 8 to 10 minutes, but check your package for specifics! Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside; you want those strands to be ready to soak up all the cowboy butter magic later.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle your chicken pieces with the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Swirl the chicken into the hot oil and watch them turn golden and slightly crisp on the edges—about 6 to 8 minutes in total. When they’re fully cooked and lightly browned, scoop the chicken onto a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce
Using the same skillet (don’t clean it out, those bits on the bottom add flavor!), drop in the butter and lower the heat to medium. Once the butter melts and starts to sizzle, stir in the minced garlic. Let it cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Add the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Let everything bubble together for a minute or two—your kitchen will smell amazing!
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it so every piece is coated in the velvety cowboy butter sauce. Now, add the drained linguine and toss gently but thoroughly, making sure the sauce wraps around every strand and chunk of chicken. Keep the skillet on low just until everything is heated through and glossy.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Right before serving your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe, shower the pasta with chopped parsley, fresh chives, and a big handful of grated Parmesan cheese for that savory finish. Serve it up hot, with extra cheese at the table for those who can never get enough!
How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe
Garnishes
No plate of this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe is complete without a final sprinkle of fresh parsley and chives. Not only do they add a pop of green and a touch of fresh flavor, but they really make the dish look restaurant-worthy. A bit of extra grated Parmesan on top is always a welcome flourish—trust me, you won’t regret it!
Side Dishes
This rich, satisfying pasta is a meal in itself, but a crisp green salad or some garlicky roasted vegetables are perfect for balancing out the buttery, savory flavors. A wedge of crusty bread is also fantastic for sopping up any cowboy butter sauce that clings to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to take your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe up a notch, try serving it in a big, family-style bowl at the center of the table for everyone to dig in. Or for date nights, twist the linguine into little nests on each plate and top with a generous spoonful of sauce and chicken. For casual gatherings, you can even serve it in individual shallow bowls with extra chopped herbs and a dusting of red pepper flakes for color and heat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is never a guarantee!), scoop the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe into an airtight container. It’ll stay tasty in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making lunch the next day a treat in itself.
Freezing
For meal prep lovers, this dish can be frozen, though the linguine may soften slightly upon thawing. Freeze cooled portions in airtight freezer-safe containers for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results and freshest taste.
Reheating
To bring your leftovers back to life, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water, chicken broth, or even a touch of extra butter. For single servings, the microwave works perfectly—just cover and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring often for even warming.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While linguine is my favorite for clinging to that buttery sauce, you can swap in fettuccine, spaghetti, or any other long pasta you have on hand for this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe.
Is there a way to make this recipe creamier?
Yes! For a luscious, creamy twist, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese just before you add the pasta. It transforms the sauce into an even silkier delight.
How spicy is the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe?
It’s totally customizable. The crushed red pepper flakes bring a gentle kick, but you can scale them up or down to suit your spice tolerance—or skip them altogether for a milder dinner.
Can I make this gluten free?
Definitely. Simply use your favorite gluten-free linguine or fettuccine. Everything else in the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe is naturally gluten free, so everyone can dig in!
What vegetables can I add to the dish?
If you want to sneak in more veggies, toss in baby spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted cherry tomatoes. Stir them in right before serving for a colorful, wholesome boost.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a vibrant weeknight dinner that will have everyone chasing the last strands of pasta around their plate, this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe is your new go-to. Give it a try, have fun with the garnishes, and don’t be surprised if this becomes your signature comfort dish—happy cooking!
Print
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and flavorful Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, a hearty pasta dish that combines tender chicken bites with a creamy, zesty sauce. This recipe is a perfect blend of savory and tangy flavors, sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
Linguine:
- 8 ounces linguine pasta
Cowboy Butter Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Cowboy Butter Sauce:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Linguine: Prepare linguine according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Season chicken with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook in olive oil until golden brown; set aside.
- Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and add garlic, mustard, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Simmer briefly.
- Combine and Serve: Return chicken to the skillet, add linguine, and toss until coated. Finish with parsley, chives, and Parmesan before serving.
Notes
- You can use fettuccine or spaghetti instead of linguine.
- For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
