Why Make This Recipe
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with creamy, buttery flavor. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. The fresh herbs and spices give it a unique taste, while the linguine adds a satisfying touch. If you’re looking for a quick and hearty meal, this recipe is just for you!
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Ingredients:
- 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Directions:
Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and melt a tablespoon of butter. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Remove it from the pan and let it rest.
Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic, fresh parsley, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until aromatic. Then, pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
Combine the Pasta and Chicken:
Slice the rested chicken into strips. Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss it in the buttery sauce. Gently mix in the chicken strips until everything is well coated.
Serve and Garnish:
Plate your delicious Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and extra parsley if desired.
How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Serve the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine warm. It’s perfect on its own or paired with a side salad or garlic bread. This dish also makes great leftovers for lunch the next day!
How to Store Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to reheat it, add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it from drying out.
Tips to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
- Feel free to adjust the spices based on your taste. Want it spicier? Add more red pepper flakes!
- You can also use leftover chicken and skip the cooking step to save time.
- Don’t forget to stir the sauce often to avoid burning the garlic.
Variation
You can switch up the pasta type to fettuccine or penne if you prefer. Adding vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes can make this dish even more colorful and nutritious.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can. Just make sure to fully thaw it before cooking for even results.
2. Is there a vegetarian option for Cowboy Butter?
You can substitute the chicken with firm tofu or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version of this dish.
3. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta instead of regular linguine. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Ingredients
Method
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and onion powder.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and melt a tablespoon of butter.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Remove it from the pan and let it rest.
- In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic, fresh parsley, thyme, and red pepper flakes.
- Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until aromatic. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
- Slice the rested chicken into strips. Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss it in the buttery sauce.
- Gently mix in the chicken strips until everything is well coated.
- Plate your delicious Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and extra parsley if desired.