Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine combines the heartiness of chicken with a creamy, buttery sauce that envelops every strand of pasta. I stumbled upon this recipe while searching for a quick dinner idea that promised to impress the family. The meticulous balance of flavors and textures makes this dish a true weeknight winner. Perfect for any occasion—from cozy dinners to casual gatherings—this dish brings a taste of comfort right to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine has quickly become a staple in my kitchen, and for good reason. It’s not just a meal; it’s a flavor-packed experience. Here’s what makes it a must-try:
- Speedy Preparation: With a total cook time of about 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Kid-Approved: The creamy sauce and tender chicken win over even the pickiest eaters.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Rich flavors and a satisfying texture come together to create a dish that feels indulgent without the fuss.
“This recipe made dinner a breeze! My family devoured it, asking for seconds. It’s creamy, flavorful, and so easy to make!”
Step-by-Step Overview
Creating Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a straightforward process that flows from prepping ingredients to serving it fresh on the table. You’ll start by cooking the linguine, then sear the chicken to golden perfection. The rich buttery sauce comes together in the same skillet, saving you on cleanup and maximizing flavor. Finally, combine everything together for a delicious meal.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients for a scrumptious Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine:
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cloves fresh garlic
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup fresh parsley
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Feel free to swap out linguine for any pasta you have on hand, or use olive oil instead of butter if you prefer a lighter option.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep your ingredients: Begin by chopping the garlic and fresh parsley. Bring a pot of salted water to boil for the linguine.
Cook the linguine: Add the linguine to the boiling water. Cook until al dente, remembering to reserve about a cup of the pasta water before draining.
Sear the chicken: In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt half of the unsalted butter. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side until they’re beautifully golden brown.
Add the flavor: Toss in the minced garlic, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Sauté everything until the garlic is fragrant, about one minute.
Create the creamy sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and add the remaining butter. Stir the mixture and allow it to simmer until it thickens slightly.
Combine and serve: Toss in the drained linguine, adding reserved pasta water gradually to reach your desired sauce consistency. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese before digging in!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
For a visually appealing presentation, serve your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in deep pasta bowls. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can elevate the dish’s flavors. Pair this meal with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to soak up the creamy goodness. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with a twist of lime complements the richness perfectly.
How to Store
To keep your leftovers fresh, transfer the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine into an airtight container. It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When it comes time to reheat, gently warm the dish on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or pasta water to restore its creamy texture.
Tips to Make It Perfect
- Don’t rush the chicken: Ensure the chicken gets that perfect golden sear for depth of flavor.
- Pasta water is your friend: It helps create a velvety sauce, so don’t skip this step!
- Fresh herbs are key: Adding fresh parsley right before serving enhances flavor and freshness.
Recipe Variations
Feel like mixing it up? Try these variations for a new twist on this delicious dish:
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in your favorite vegetables, like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, for added nutrition.
- Cheese Changes: Swap in goat cheese or feta for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does prep and cooking take?
The total prep and cooking time for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is about 30 minutes.
Can this be made dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free butter for a tasty alternative.
How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little reserved pasta water as needed to keep it creamy.
With its easy preparation and rich flavors, Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is sure to become a beloved dish in your household. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a simple meal prep option, this recipe checks all the boxes for convenience and taste!
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
A quick and flavorful dish that combines hearty chicken with a creamy, buttery sauce enveloping every strand of linguine, perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing and simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Dairy
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cloves fresh garlic
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup fresh parsley
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients: Begin by chopping the garlic and fresh parsley. Bring a pot of salted water to boil for the linguine.
- Cook the linguine: Add the linguine to the boiling water. Cook until al dente, reserving about a cup of the pasta water before draining.
- Sear the chicken: In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt half of the unsalted butter. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Add the flavor: Toss in the minced garlic, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Sauté until the garlic is fragrant, about one minute.
- Create the creamy sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and add the remaining butter. Stir and let it simmer until it thickens slightly.
- Combine and serve: Toss in the drained linguine, adding reserved pasta water gradually to reach your desired sauce consistency. Finish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
For a lighter option, swap butter for olive oil. Serve in deep pasta bowls with a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg