Name: The Best Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; ½ tsp smoked paprika; ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional); Salt and black pepper, to taste; 8 oz linguine; Salted water, for boiling; ¼ cup reserved pasta water; ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened; 2 garlic cloves, minced; ¼ cup chicken broth; ¼ cup heavy cream; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

If you’re looking for a delicious, easy-to-make pasta dish that’s perfect for any occasion, then look no further than Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine! This recipe combines tender chicken, savory linguine, and a flavorful cowboy butter sauce that will have your taste buds singing with joy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Great flavors: The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and indulgent sauce that coats every strand of pasta and piece of chicken.
Quick prep time: With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can have this dish on the table in under 30 minutes.
Perfect for meal prep: This recipe reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prepping lunches or dinners for the week.

Ingredient Notes:

For the Chicken:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed: Provides protein and a hearty texture to the dish.
Olive oil: Adds flavor and helps to cook the chicken.
Unsalted butter: Creates a rich and creamy base for the sauce.
Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (optional), salt, and black pepper: Seasonings that enhance the flavor of the chicken.
For the Pasta:
Linguine: A classic pasta choice that pairs well with the cowboy butter sauce.
Salted water: Used for boiling the pasta.
Reserved pasta water: Helps to thin out the sauce if needed.
For the Cowboy Butter Sauce:
Unsalted butter: The star of the sauce, providing richness and flavor.
Garlic cloves: Adds a delicious garlic aroma and taste.
Chicken broth: Adds depth of flavor.
Heavy cream: Creates a creamy sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty and nutty flavor.
Dijon mustard, lemon juice, fresh parsley, and crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Additional flavorings that elevate the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken breasts and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter and add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for a minute until fragrant.
Cook linguine according to package instructions in salted water. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
In a large saucepan, combine softened butter, minced garlic cloves, chicken broth, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Cook until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Add the cooked chicken and linguine to the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water.
Stir in fresh parsley and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Serve hot and enjoy!

Helpful Tips:

For a lighter version, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.
To make this dish spicy, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add red pepper flakes to taste.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to revive the sauce.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
Don’t overcook the chicken to ensure it stays tender and juicy.
Adjust the seasonings to your taste preferences for a personalized touch.

Serving Suggestions:

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine. For a complete meal, serve with garlic bread or roasted vegetables on the side.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To store leftovers, place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can swap linguine for spaghetti, fettuccine, or any pasta of your choice.
Is it necessary to use heavy cream in the sauce?
Heavy cream adds richness to the sauce, but you can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of this dish.

Conclusion:

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a flavorful and satisfying pasta dish that is sure to become a family favorite. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked linguine, this recipe is a must-try for any pasta lover. Give it a go and let us know how you enjoyed it!