Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe
If you love a creamy, flavorful, and slightly smoky twist on classic pasta, Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is the weeknight hero you need in your recipe arsenal. Imagine tender, paprika-kissed chicken mingling with ribbons of linguine, all cloaked in a luscious butter-and-cream sauce that whispers hints of garlic and a little heat. With every bite, you get a comforting combination of silky cheese, fresh herbs, and just the right kick to keep things exciting. Whether you’re cooking to impress guests or treating yourself to a cozy dinner, Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is guaranteed to steal the show at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine comes from its lineup of simple ingredients, each playing a special role. Don’t skip or swap at random—these components create the dish’s unforgettable flavor, color, and texture!
- Linguine Pasta (12 ounces): This flat, wide noodle is the perfect vehicle for the rich, creamy sauce to cling to each strand.
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (1 pound): Cut into bite-sized pieces, this protein soaks up every smoky, buttery note in the dish.
- Unsalted Butter (4 tablespoons): Essential for that iconic velvety sauce and luxurious mouthfeel.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Infuses the sauce with irresistible, aromatic depth.
- Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds savory warmth and that signature cowboys-by-the-campfire flavor.
- Chili Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Layers in a gentle, earthy heat.
- Onion Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Gives the dish a rounded, mellow savoriness.
- Cayenne Pepper (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Turn up the heat or skip it if you prefer a milder kick.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Brings all the flavors together—don’t be shy!
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): A final fleck for just the right edge of heat.
- Fresh Parsley (1/4 cup, chopped): Tossed in at the end for vibrant color and herbal brightness.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Melts into the sauce for irresistible cheesy goodness.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup): The secret to that luscious, restaurant-quality sauce—you can swap for half-and-half to lighten it up.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Helps achieve that perfect golden crust on the chicken.
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Step 1: Cook the Linguine
Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook until al dente as per package directions—usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain well and set aside, reserving a splash of pasta water just in case you want to loosen up your sauce later.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, toss your chicken pieces with smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. When your kitchen smells irresistible and the chicken is juicy with a gorgeous sear, transfer it to a plate.
Step 3: Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce
In the same skillet (no need to wash—those lovely browned bits add flavor!), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it sizzle for about a minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, gently scraping up any bits stuck to the pan. Simmer just until the sauce starts to thicken slightly—it should smell heavenly!
Step 4: Bring Everything Together
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat every morsel in the creamy cowboy butter sauce. Toss in the cooked linguine, then shower everything with grated Parmesan and fresh chopped parsley. Use tongs to swirl and toss until the sauce hugs each strand of pasta. If you like your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine extra saucy, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen.
Step 5: Serve and Savor
Spoon Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine into deep bowls, making sure every serving gets plenty of chicken, sauce, and fresh herbs. Top with extra Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy. Serve immediately while the dish is steaming hot and impossibly creamy.
How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Garnishes
This dish absolutely shines with a handful of extra fresh parsley and a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top. For a dash of color and zing, try adding thinly sliced scallions or a pinch of red pepper flakes. Lemon zest is amazing if you crave a little brightness to balance out the richness.
Side Dishes
Because Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is so decadently creamy, pair it with something light and refreshing. A crisp green salad with a lemony vinaigrette always does the trick, or try roasted asparagus or steamed broccolini. If you’re totally leaning into comfort food, serve with a hunk of warm, crusty bread to mop up every drop of that amazing sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a show-stopping presentation, twirl the linguine into little nests on each plate and nestle chicken pieces right in the center. Serve from a large, rustic platter at the center of your table, garnishing with whole sprigs of parsley for drama. Or, for a fun twist, serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in mini bowls as part of a pasta-tasting dinner—everyone will be asking for seconds!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine keeps well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container to prevent the pasta from drying out or absorbing any stray fridge flavors. The sauce may thicken a bit as it chills, but a splash of cream or milk can easily revive it when you reheat.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine for up to 2 months, though the sauce may separate slightly after thawing. Always let the pasta cool completely before freezing; store in freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Before serving, stir thoroughly while reheating to restore that dreamy creamy texture.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of cream, milk, or even a little water to loosen the sauce and prevent sticking. Stir frequently for the smoothest results. If you’re short on time, the microwave works too—just heat it in short bursts, stirring in between, so everything warms evenly without overcooking the chicken.
FAQs
Can I make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap in your favorite gluten-free linguine pasta and ensure that all your spices are certified gluten-free. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you won’t miss a beat.
Is there a lighter version of this recipe?
You can lighten up Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine by replacing heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, and using just two tablespoons of butter instead of four. The sauce will still be rich and creamy, but you’ll save a few calories.
Can I add vegetables to Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?
Definitely! Sautéed bell peppers, baby spinach, mushrooms, or even sun-dried tomatoes are all delicious additions. Stir them in after searing the chicken but before adding the cream, so they soak up the flavors of the sauce.
How spicy is Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?
The heat level is totally up to you. Cayenne pepper adds a notable kick, but you can reduce the amount or omit it entirely for a milder, family-friendly flavor. Feel free to adjust to your spice comfort zone!
What can I use instead of chicken?
If you want to mix things up, try using sliced cooked sausage, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly and enjoy the Cowboy Butter experience in a whole new way.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a pasta dish that’s creamy, packed with smoky flavor, and irresistibly comforting, it’s time to make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine your dinnertime go-to. Invite your friends, pour a glass of something you love, and dig into a bowl of pure joy—you’re about to create a new favorite for your recipe collection!
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Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a deliciously creamy and flavorful dish with this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine recipe. Tender chicken cooked in a smoky, buttery sauce, tossed with linguine and Parmesan cheese – a satisfying meal for any day of the week.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 12 ounces linguine pasta
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Seasonings:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Finishing Touches:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the Linguine: Boil linguine until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Season chicken with paprika, chili powder, onion powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook in a skillet until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: Melt butter in the skillet, sauté garlic, then add heavy cream. Simmer gently, then return chicken to the skillet.
- Combine Ingredients: Add linguine, Parmesan, and parsley to the skillet. Mix well to coat everything evenly.
- Serve: Dish out and enjoy your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine!
Notes
- Adjust cayenne pepper for preferred heat level.
- Use half-and-half as a lighter cream alternative.
- Enhance with sautéed veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2 grams
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 28 grams
- Saturated Fat: 16 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 35 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Protein: 38 grams
- Cholesterol: 145 mg
