Save This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a rich and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender, seasoned chicken tossed in a garlicky, buttery sauce with Dijon, lemon, and a touch of spice. The creamy sauce coats every strand of linguine, creating an indulgent meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
I first tried making Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine on a busy Tuesday night, and it quickly became a favorite in our home. The combination of creamy sauce and spiced chicken was an instant hit with everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- Linguine: 12 oz, cooked al dente
- Chicken breasts: 2 boneless, skinless
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Butter: 2 tbsp
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Red pepper flakes: ½ tsp (adjust to taste)
- Dijon mustard: 1 tsp
- Lemon juice: 1 tbsp
- Chicken broth: ½ cup
- Heavy cream: ½ cup
- Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, grated
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook the linguine until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken for 5, 6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Remove from heat, let rest, then slice into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce:
- Lower heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the pan. Simmer for 2, 3 minutes.
- Add Cream and Cheese:
- Pour in heavy cream and stir well. Let simmer for another 2 minutes until slightly thickened. Add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water for consistency.
- Combine Everything:
- Add sliced chicken back to the skillet, followed by the drained linguine. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. Cook for 1, 2 more minutes to let flavors meld.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top.
Save My kids love helping to sprinkle the parsley on top before we dig in. It brings everyone together, and there are always requests for seconds!
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the creamy texture.
Variations
Try adding spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture. For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
Save This comforting pasta will have your family asking for it again and again. Enjoy every flavorful, creamy bite!
Recipe Guide
- → Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute linguine with fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne for similar results.
- → How spicy is the dish?
The smoked paprika and red pepper flakes add mild heat. Adjust the flakes for more or less spice.
- → Can I replace chicken with another protein?
Turkey or shrimp work well; adjust cooking times to ensure proper doneness.
- → Is it possible to make the sauce lighter?
Substitute half-and-half or milk for cream, and use less butter to lighten the sauce.
- → What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are good alternatives for a similar flavor and texture.