Irresistibly Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in 30 Minutes

why make this recipe

Irresistibly Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for busy nights. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a creamy, buttery pasta that will satisfy your cravings. The combination of tender chicken, rich sauce, and zesty flavors makes this meal a family favorite. It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and is sure to impress anyone at your dinner table.

how to make Irresistibly Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 12 ounces linguine pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or reserved pasta water
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Cook Pasta: Boil the linguine according to the package directions in salted water. Don’t forget to reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.

2. Cook Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper before cooking for 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Prepare Cowboy Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic, paprika, and red pepper flakes; sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.

4. Add Flavor Components: Stir in the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth (or reserved pasta water). Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan while gently simmering.

5. Creamy Sauce Formation: Pour in the heavy cream and half of the chopped parsley. Stir gently, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until the sauce lightly thickens.

6. Combine All: Return the chicken to the pan, add the cooked linguine and parmesan cheese. Toss everything together to coat evenly, adding reserved pasta water as needed to adjust the sauce’s consistency.

7. Final Touches: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with the remaining parsley and extra parmesan cheese before serving. Serve immediately to enjoy the delightful flavors!

how to serve Irresistibly Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Serve this dish warm in large bowls. You can add extra parsley or parmesan cheese on top for a beautiful presentation. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home or to impress guests at a gathering.

how to store Irresistibly Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

To store leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to bring back creaminess.

tips to make Irresistibly Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

• Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
• Adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes according to your taste.
• If you want a healthier option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative.

variation

You can add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes to the dish for added nutrients and color. For a twist, consider using shrimp instead of chicken or swapping the linguine for zucchini noodles for a low-carb version.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce in advance. Just combine everything just before serving.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative if you prefer a lighter or dairy-free version.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free pasta instead of regular linguine to accommodate gluten-free diets.