Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Introduction

Recipe and More

If you’re a fan of comforting pasta dishes that pack a punch of flavor, then this Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine recipe is just for you. Bursting with savory spices, tender chicken, creamy butter sauce, and silky linguine, it’s a dish that effortlessly brings the heartiness of cowboy cooking to your dinner table. Perfect for weeknights or a casual family gathering, this recipe combines bold flavors with ease of preparation.

Detailed Ingredients with Measures

What You’ll Need

To create this flavorful cowboy butter chicken linguine, gather the following ingredients:

– Chicken breast: Thinly sliced into evenly sized pieces.
– Linguine pasta: Your preferred brand, cooked al dente.
– Salt and pepper: To season the chicken and adjust taste in the sauce.
– Butter: Essential for crafting that rich, buttery sauce.
– Garlic: Minced for a punch of aroma and flavor.
– Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky, sweet depth to the dish.
– Red pepper flakes: For a hint of spiciness.
– Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed to balance the richness of the butter.
– Parsley: Freshly chopped to garnish and enhance freshness.
– Parmesan cheese: Grated for topping and extra creaminess.

Prep Time

Getting Started

Preparing this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is super simple and doesn’t demand much time. Start by slicing your chicken into thin pieces, then season generously with salt and pepper. Make sure to bring a pot of water to a boil to cook your linguine while you work on the chicken and sauce.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Perfect Timing

The total cooking process for this recipe is straightforward and quick:

– **Cook Time**: Sauté the chicken pieces in butter with the garlic until tender and juicy. This takes about 8–10 minutes.
– **Preparing the Sauce**: Add smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice to the pan to create a bold, buttery sauce. This step only requires about 5 minutes.
– **Combining Pasta**: Toss the cooked linguine with the chicken and sauce. Incorporate parsley and parmesan for added flair and flavor.

In roughly 20–25 minutes total, you’ll have a warm, hearty plate of Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine ready to serve.

The recipe yields a perfect amount for approximately 4 servings, making it a family-friendly dinner option or an ideal dish for small gatherings. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, and enjoy!
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Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Season them evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a generous splash of olive oil. Once the oil is heated, add the seasoned chicken pieces. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is golden on the outside and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Linguine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest. Set the cooked linguine aside.

Step 4: Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, lower the heat to medium and add a stick of butter to melt. Add minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 5: Incorporate Fresh Herbs

Add chopped parsley, chives, and thyme to the skillet. Stir them into the sauce to infuse it with fresh herbal flavors.

Step 6: Combine the Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss it in the butter sauce until well coated and heated through.

Step 7: Mix the Linguine

Add the cooked linguine to the skillet. Toss the pasta with the chicken and sauce, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water to help coat the noodles evenly and adjust to your preferred sauce consistency.

Step 8: Serve

Transfer the cowboy butter chicken linguine to a serving platter or individual plates. Top with additional parsley or chives if desired. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Note 1: Adjusting Spices

If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes in the cowboy butter sauce. For extra heat, increase the amount based on your preference.

Note 2: Using a Different Protein

This recipe can also be made with shrimp or even thin slices of beef as an alternative protein to chicken.

Note 3: Fresh Herbs Swap

If fresh herbs aren’t available, substitute with dried herbs. Use about a third of the amount of fresh herbs called for in the recipe.

Note 4: Pasta Water

The reserved pasta water is important for adjusting the sauce consistency. Start with a small amount and add gradually as needed.

Note 5: Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.
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Cook techniques

How to properly cook chicken for this dish

Make sure to season the chicken well and cook it on medium-high heat to get a nice golden sear on the outside. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring the chicken stays moist and juicy.

Making the perfect butter sauce

To get a smooth and flavorful cowboy butter sauce, gently melt the butter and add garlic, spices, and lemon juice slowly. Stir consistently to create a cohesive and creamy mixture without separating.

Cooking linguine to the right texture

Boil the linguine in salted water until it is al dente. This provides the perfect texture to absorb the buttery sauce without becoming overly soft.

Tossing everything together

Ensure you combine the chicken, linguine, and cowboy butter sauce while everything is still hot. Toss thoroughly to coat all the pasta and chicken evenly in the sauce.

Layering with herbs and seasoning

Add freshly chopped parsley or your choice of herbs at the end for added freshness. Adjust salt, pepper, or spice levels to taste.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute linguine with other types of pasta such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne if preferred.

What can I substitute for chicken?

You can replace chicken with shrimp, salmon, or even tofu for a different protein option.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

To make it vegetarian, replace the chicken with a mix of sautéed vegetables and keep the cowboy butter sauce as is.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken or sauce.

Can I make cowboy butter sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cowboy butter sauce in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before combining it with the chicken and pasta.

Conclusion

The Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a delightfully creamy and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion. Its rich and tangy sauce, combined with tender chicken and linguine, makes it a satisfying and comforting dish. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is sure to impress with its bold flavors and simple preparation. Enjoy the combination of savory and zesty in every bite!

More recipes suggestions and combination

Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine

If you love the buttery sauce in this recipe, try a variation with shrimp. Garlic and shrimp paired with linguine create a luxurious dish that’s light yet satisfying.

Lemon Herb Chicken Fettuccine

Switch up the flavors with a bright, citrusy lemon herb sauce for another delicious pasta dish. It’s a fresh alternative that’s equally delightful.

Steak with Cowboy Butter

Take the cowboy butter inspiration to a perfectly cooked steak. Drizzle the sauce over your steak for a rich and tangy topping that elevates the meal.

Vegetable Alfredo Linguine

For a vegetarian twist, combine your favorite vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms with a creamy Alfredo sauce for a hearty pasta dinner.

Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Experiment with Cajun spices to bring a kick of heat to your pasta. This version offers bold flavors and a little spice for those who love a fiery kick.