Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Introduction
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a delectable dish that brings together the robust flavors of cowboy butter with tender chicken and perfectly cooked linguine. This unique recipe offers a comforting yet exciting meal option that can easily impress your family and friends. The combination of garlic, herbs, and spices in the cowboy butter elevates the dish, making it a favorite for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken Breast – 1 pound, diced
Linguine – 8 ounces
Butter – 1/2 cup
Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
Fresh Parsley – 1/4 cup, chopped
Fresh Chives – 2 tablespoons, chopped
Lemon Juice – 2 tablespoons
Paprika – 1 teaspoon
Worcestershire Sauce – 1 teaspoon
Salt – to taste
Black Pepper – to taste
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time – 20 minutes
Total Time – 35 minutes
Yield – Serves 4
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by preheating your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Grill or cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through and juices run clear. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
Step 2: Cook the Linguine
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the linguine and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce
In a separate skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Incorporate chopped parsley, lemon juice, and a pinch of cayenne pepper into the butter. Stir the mixture for about 2-3 minutes until combined and fragrant.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In the skillet with the cowboy butter sauce, add the cooked linguine and sliced chicken. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve your desired sauce consistency. Ensure the noodles and chicken are well coated with the sauce.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer the cowboy butter chicken linguine to serving plates. Garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
Note 1: Adjust Seasoning
Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more garlic or spices as preferred.
Note 2: Vegetable Addition
You can add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to the dish for added flavor and nutrition.
Note 3: Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Note 4: Gluten-Free Option
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute linguine with a gluten-free pasta option.
Cook techniques
Searing Chicken
Searing the chicken helps to lock in the juices and create a delicious golden-brown crust. This step adds flavor and texture to the dish.
Making the Cowboy Butter
The cowboy butter is a flavorful compound butter made with garlic, herbs, and spices. Mixing these ingredients together allows for a rich, savory sauce that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Cooking Pasta
Cooking the linguine to al dente ensures that the pasta maintains a firm texture. This prevents it from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce.
Tossing Ingredients
Tossing the chicken, pasta, and cowboy butter together allows the flavors to meld. This step ensures that every bite is infused with the delicious buttery sauce.
Garnishing
Garnishing the dish with fresh herbs or grated cheese adds a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor. It enhances the presentation and makes the dish visually appealing.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute linguine with another type of pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, based on your preference.
Is this dish spicy?
The spiciness of the dish can be adjusted by varying the amount of seasoning used in the cowboy butter. Feel free to modify it according to your taste.
Can I prepare the cowboy butter in advance?
Absolutely! The cowboy butter can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just allow it to reach room temperature before mixing with the pasta.
What can I serve with cowboy butter chicken linguine?
This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread to complement the rich flavors of the pasta.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Conclusion
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a delightful and flavorful dish that integrates the richness of butter and a variety of seasonings, offering a unique twist on traditional pasta recipes. It’s a perfect blend of comfort food that’s easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The combination of tender chicken, savory butter sauce, and linguine creates a satisfying meal that will resonate with family and friends alike.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Garlic Shrimp Pasta
A delicious and quick alternative featuring succulent shrimp tossed in a garlic-infused butter sauce over pasta.
Italian Creamy Tomato Basil Linguine
A rich and creamy dish that combines fresh tomatoes, basil, and a touch of cream, perfect for a warm evening.
Cajun Chicken Fettuccine
Spicy and flavorful, this dish incorporates Cajun-seasoned chicken and fettuccine for a taste of the South.
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Orzo
This light and refreshing meal features grilled chicken marinated in lemon and herbs served with orzo pasta.
Mediterranean Vegetable Linguine
A vibrant and healthy option, this dish includes a variety of roasted vegetables mixed with linguine and a hint of olive oil.
Spicy Asian Noodles with Chicken
This flavorful dish features chicken in a spicy Asian sauce served over noodles for a quick and exciting meal.
Alfredo Mushroom Chicken Pasta
A creamy Alfredo sauce paired with tender chicken and mushrooms, creating a rich and comforting experience.
Beef Stroganoff with Egg Noodles
A classic dish that combines tender beef in a creamy sauce served over egg noodles, perfect for hearty appetites.
