Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a one-pan wonder packed with flavor. The creamy, garlicky butter sauce coats the tender chicken and pasta perfectly, making every bite a satisfying experience. With a mix of herbs and spices, the chicken is full of flavor, while the linguine brings a nice balance to the richness of the sauce. It’s a great meal for anyone who loves savory, hearty dishes with a touch of spice. Plus, it comes together quickly, making it a go-to for busy nights.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Cowboy Butter Sauce:

½ cup unsalted butter
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional for a tangy kick)
1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for heat)
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest (optional, for extra brightness)

For the Pasta:

12 oz linguine (or your preferred pasta)
Salt (for boiling pasta water)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Pasta:

Cook the Linguine: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to the package directions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

Prepare the Chicken:

Season the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce:

Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
Add the Herbs and Spices: Stir in the parsley, thyme, chili flakes (if using), and Dijon mustard (if using). Let the flavors combine for another minute.
Add the Cream and Parmesan: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice, continuing to cook until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Combine Everything:

Toss the Chicken and Pasta: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sauce, followed by the cooked linguine. Toss everything together, adding some of the reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick, until the pasta is fully coated with the sauce.
Finish with Lemon Zest: Stir in the lemon zest for an extra burst of freshness, and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Serve:

Garnish and Serve: Serve the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine hot, garnished with extra fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add Vegetables: Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
Use Shrimp or Steak: Swap the chicken for shrimp or steak for a different protein option.
Spicy Cowboy Butter Chicken: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for more heat, or add a diced jalapeño to the sauce.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to bring back the creaminess. You can also reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you use.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version of the sauce, but the sauce may not be as thick and creamy.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the butter with dairy-free margarine or olive oil, use dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives, and ensure your pasta is gluten-free and dairy-free.

What can I serve with Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?

This dish is perfect on its own, but you can pair it with a side of garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad to round out the meal.

Conclusion

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a rich, flavorful, and comforting dish that combines the best of creamy butter sauce and tender chicken with the perfect pasta. It’s an easy, quick meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner. Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing guests, this dish is sure to be a hit with everyone who loves savory, hearty meals!