Description

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a rich and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender chicken, savory cowboy butter sauce, and al dente linguine. Packed with bold spices, garlic, and a hint of heat, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser for any dinner. With its creamy texture and irresistible flavors, it’s the perfect comfort meal for busy nights or weekend gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

For the Cowboy Butter Sauce:

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)

For the Pasta:

8 oz linguine pasta (or your preferred pasta)
Salt (for pasta water)

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta:
Cook the linguine according to the package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water.
Cook the Chicken:
While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne (if using). Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Stir in the smoked paprika, onion powder, thyme, parsley, cayenne pepper (if using), and lemon juice. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.
Combine Chicken, Sauce, and Pasta:
Add the cooked linguine pasta to the skillet with the cowboy butter sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with additional salt and pepper, if desired.
Serve:
Plate the linguine and top with the sliced chicken. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a little extra Parmesan, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

If you prefer a spicier version, feel free to add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
You can substitute the chicken with shrimp or even steak for a different take on this dish.
This dish pairs perfectly with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner, Pasta, Chicken
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food