Are you craving a hearty meal that bursts with taste? Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine might be your new favorite dish. It blends tender chicken bites with smooth linguine, all brought together by a rich cowboy butter sauce. This recipe offers a comforting spin on standard pasta, with hints of garlic, a splash of lemon, and a gentle kick of spice. Plus, it’s easy to make at home, so you can skip the hassle of takeout. If you’re looking for a plate of savory pasta that stands out, you’ve come to the right place.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a satisfying dish that brings a unique mix of flavors to the table. You get smooth noodles tossed with juicy chicken and a zesty sauce that has a gentle layer of spice. The steps are straightforward, which means it’s beginner-friendly and doesn’t demand fancy tools or hard-to-find ingredients.
Many love this recipe because it balances creamy and savory notes in each bite. The chicken stays moist thanks to a quick sear in olive oil and cowboy butter. The sauce has the warmth of garlic and red pepper flakes, plus a bright hint of lemon juice. You won’t need hours to achieve big flavor, making it a go-to for busy days or special gatherings. It also adapts well if you want to switch the type of pasta or add a few extra veggies.
Ingredients Needed
Below is a handy rundown of the items you’ll need to make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. Each element serves a purpose, from building a creamy sauce to adding a subtle punch of heat. Feel free to adjust amounts to fit your taste. Fresh produce, good-quality chicken, and the right spices will help you create a mouthwatering meal.
Pasta
- 8 ounces linguine
Linguine has a flat shape that holds sauces well. It cooks into tender strands perfect for soaking up the cowboy butter sauce.
Chicken
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch bites
This cut cooks quickly and stays moist if you don’t overdo the heat. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a richer taste. - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Olive oil helps brown the chicken and adds a pleasant light flavor. - ½ teaspoon paprika
Paprika provides a mild smoky note and a gentle color boost. - ½ teaspoon garlic salt
This seasoning brings out the savory side of the meat. - ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Kosher salt has larger grains than table salt, which lets you control how salty your chicken becomes. - ¼ teaspoon pepper
Black pepper adds a bit of sharpness to balance other flavors.
Sauce
- ¼ cup (4 tablespoons) cowboy butter, divided
Cowboy butter is the star of this recipe. It usually includes butter mixed with garlic, herbs, and a dash of spice. We’ll use half early in the process and reserve the rest for the sauce. - ¾ cup heavy cream
This creates a velvety sauce that drapes over both the chicken and noodles. - 1 teaspoon garlic salt
More garlic salt keeps that bold flavor going, tying the sauce to the spiced chicken. - ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
This adds a gentle heat and complements the richness of the butter. - ½ teaspoon lemon juice
A squeeze of lemon brightens the overall taste and cuts through the cream. - Lemon slices, for garnish
These look nice on top and add a fresh citrus aroma if you squeeze them over the pasta. - Chopped parsley, for garnish
Parsley adds color and a mild herbal hint.
Personal Touch: You can stir in a handful of grated Parmesan cheese at the end if you love a cheesy finish. A sprinkle of dried oregano or basil can also add a new dimension.
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe
This pasta dish comes together with a few simple steps. Even if you’re new to cooking, these instructions will guide you through the process. The key is to pay attention to heat levels and times, so your chicken remains juicy, and your sauce never burns. Let’s walk through each stage in detail.
- Cook the Linguine
Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Toss in a pinch of salt to flavor the pasta as it cooks. Slide the linguine into the pot and let it simmer until it’s al dente. Most brands include suggested cooking times on their packages, typically around 9 to 11 minutes. You want the strands to have a slight bite without being stiff. Once ready, drain the noodles and set them aside. Keep them warm by placing a lid on the pot. - Season and Sear the Chicken
Warm a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drizzle in your olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, add the chicken bites in a single layer. Sprinkle on your paprika, garlic salt, kosher salt, and pepper. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the bottom side starts to turn golden. - Add Cowboy Butter to the Chicken
Drop in 2 tablespoons of cowboy butter. The butter will melt around the chicken pieces, infusing them with extra flavor. Flip each piece and let them cook for another 3 to 4 minutes. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F, which keeps the meat safe and moist. Once the chicken is cooked through, transfer the pieces to a plate. Cover them with foil so they stay warm and tender. - Build the Creamy Sauce
Turn the heat down to low or a gentle medium-low if your stove runs cool. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of cowboy butter, followed by the heavy cream, garlic salt, and crushed red pepper flakes. As the butter melts, gently scrape up any browned bits left in the skillet. Those crispy spots add deep flavor to your sauce. Stir until the mixture looks smooth. Avoid boiling it at a high temperature, or the cream may break and look grainy. A steady, gentle simmer is enough. - Combine the Pasta and Chicken
Return the cooked linguine to the skillet, along with the chicken pieces. Toss everything together to coat the noodles and meat in the sauce. Keep stirring for a minute or two, so each strand of pasta soaks up that cowboy butter goodness. - Brighten With Lemon
Add ½ teaspoon of lemon juice. This small splash lifts the creamy sauce and balances the spices. If you like more citrus zing, add a few drops at a time until you’re satisfied. - Garnish and Serve
Plate your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine while it’s steaming hot. Top each serving with lemon slices and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. This final touch gives the dish a crisp, fresh accent. Serve at once so you can enjoy the sauce at its peak texture.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions
- Side Ideas: Pair your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. Steamed broccoli or sautéed zucchini can also provide a pleasant crunch next to creamy pasta.
- Bread for Dipping: Crusty bread is great for mopping up extra sauce. Warm garlic bread adds another layer of flavor that fits right in with the garlicky theme.
- Family-Style: Place the skillet on a hot pad in the center of the table. Let everyone serve themselves, giving a fun and relaxed vibe to the meal.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container. The dish stays fresh for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge.
- Freezing: Creamy sauces can be tricky to freeze without changing texture. If you must freeze, store the sauce separate from the pasta, if possible. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm the pasta slowly on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce. Stir often to prevent sticking or scorching. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring each time.
This resource provides comprehensive guidelines on safe freezing practices, including recommended storage times and temperature settings.
Helpful Notes
- Choosing the Chicken
While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are light and lean, boneless chicken thighs work just as well. Thighs often stay even more tender and have a slightly richer taste. If you swap in thighs, you might need a few extra minutes of cooking time. - Making Your Own Cowboy Butter
If you can’t find cowboy butter at the store, it’s simple to create. Mix softened butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley or chives, a bit of lemon juice, salt, pepper, and a dash of cayenne pepper. Blend until smooth, then chill until semi-firm. You can also add chopped green onions, a little Dijon mustard, or a hint of paprika for extra spice. This homemade spread is excellent for basting meats or adding a boost of flavor to veggies and grains. - Adjusting Spice Levels
Crushed red pepper flakes offer a mild spark. If you enjoy heat, sprinkle more on top after plating or stir in extra flakes while cooking. For a milder version, reduce the pepper flakes to a pinch or leave them out. - Cream Choices
Heavy cream gives the sauce a rich feel. If you want a lighter option, try half-and-half, though it may produce a thinner sauce. Keep in mind that lower-fat dairy products can curdle faster, so maintain a low heat and stir gently. - Making It Gluten-Free
Substitute regular linguine with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Look for brown rice pasta or a corn-quinoa blend, which can hold up to sauces fairly well. Keep an eye on the cooking time since gluten-free pasta can go from firm to mushy quickly. - Boosting Flavor
- Herbs: Feel free to add thyme or basil to the sauce. If you only have dried herbs, use them sparingly because they can overshadow the cowboy butter.
- Cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese gives a deeper savory element. You could also try a mild shredded cheddar for a different twist.
- Veggies: Toss in baby spinach, sliced mushrooms, or diced tomatoes toward the end. They’ll cook down and add fresh color without too much extra hassle.
- Step-by-Step Prep
To save time, measure out spices and slice your chicken before you start heating the pan. That way, everything goes in at the right moment. Multi-tasking can help if you feel comfortable, but be sure the chicken doesn’t burn while you juggle tasks. - Timing the Pasta and Sauce
It’s usually best to start cooking the sauce just before the pasta finishes. This way, you can combine everything while the noodles are still warm and ready to absorb flavors. If you make the sauce too early, it might thicken or even scorch if it sits for too long on the stove. - Cooking in Batches
If you double the recipe to feed more people, consider browning the chicken in batches. Overcrowding the skillet can cause the pieces to steam rather than brown. - Other Uses for Cowboy Butter
Leftover cowboy butter is tasty when spread on toast, corn on the cob, or grilled steak. It’s a versatile ingredient that brightens many dishes. - Kitchen Tools
- Large Pot: For cooking the linguine.
- Colander: To drain the pasta.
- Sturdy Skillet: A wide skillet with tall sides helps keep the sauce and chicken contained.
- Tongs or Spatula: To flip the chicken without breaking it up.
- Meat Thermometer: Not required, but handy for checking if chicken has reached 165°F.
- Flavor Pairings
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine has bold flavors. You can elevate its profile by serving it with a citrus-based drink like lemonade or a lime spritzer. The tangy notes mesh well with the garlic and spice in the sauce. - Serving Sizes
This recipe typically feeds around four people, but appetites can vary. If you’re feeding a crowd with big appetites, consider adding a salad or side dish to stretch the meal. - Leftover Makeover
If you have leftover chicken pasta, you can turn it into a casserole. Place the cooked pasta in a baking dish, top with extra sauce, and sprinkle with cheese. Bake at 350°F until warmed through and the cheese melts. This approach transforms the leftover linguine into a fresh meal for another day. - Watch the Salt
Since there’s salt in the cowboy butter and garlic salt, be mindful of any extra seasoning. Taste as you go to avoid an overly salty dish. You can always add more later, but you can’t remove it once it’s in. - Cooking Tips for Beginners
- Keep your heat at medium-high when browning the chicken, then lower it for the sauce to protect the cream from scorching.
- Stir the sauce often. Cream sauce can stick to the bottom if left unattended.
- Don’t forget to rest the chicken under foil once it’s done cooking. This brief rest keeps it juicy.
- Choosing a Good Cowboy Butter
Store-bought cowboy butter brands vary, so read the label to see if they include extra salt or specific herbs. Pick one that has flavors you enjoy. If it’s very salty, reduce other salt additions a bit. - Extra Garnishes
- Fresh Basil Leaves: Tear them by hand and scatter on top.
- Red Chili Slices: If you love spice, a few thin slices of fresh chili add a bright pop of color.
- Toasted Bread Crumbs: Sprinkle these on top for a little crunch in each forkful.
Conclusion
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine combines smooth pasta, tender chicken, and a creamy sauce that boasts both comfort and a bit of heat. Every bite delivers a nice balance of garlic, lemon, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Unlike many fancy meals, you won’t need hours in the kitchen or a lengthy list of steps to enjoy a flavorful dinner. This recipe is approachable yet packed with character, making it a strong choice for both weeknights and weekend gatherings.
Feel free to share your own twists in the comments, whether it’s adding extra vegetables or swapping the protein. A recipe like this grows even better when home cooks try new ideas. Don’t forget to pass this link around on social media or send it to a friend who loves easy yet delicious meals. By trying this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine for yourself, you’ll see why it has become a favorite in many kitchens. Enjoy each savory, creamy, and zesty forkful!
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Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Colander
- Skillet
- Tongs
- Meat Thermometer
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces linguine
Chicken
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch bites
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Sauce
- ¼ cup cowboy butter divided
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice
- lemon slices for garnish
- chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt and cook the linguine until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil, then add chicken in a single layer. Sprinkle with paprika, garlic salt, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Add 2 tablespoons of cowboy butter to the skillet. Flip the chicken pieces and cook for another 3-4 minutes until fully cooked (165°F internal temperature). Remove chicken from the skillet and cover with foil to keep warm.
- Reduce heat to low. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of cowboy butter, followed by the heavy cream, garlic salt, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet.
- Return the cooked linguine and chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta and chicken are well coated in the sauce. Simmer for 1-2 minutes.
- Add lemon juice and stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish with lemon slices and chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Calories: 650kcal
- Total Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
- Sodium: 820mg
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 38g
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FAQs
1. What is Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a pasta dish that features linguine noodles and tender chicken bites coated in a savory “cowboy butter” sauce. This sauce often includes garlic, herbs, and a bit of spice, creating a rich and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare at home.
2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely. Chicken thighs tend to stay extra moist and can bring a deeper flavor to Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. Simply cut them into 1-inch pieces, season well, and follow the same cooking steps as you would for chicken breasts.
3. How do I store leftover Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?
Place any cooled leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to three or four days. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to help preserve freshness and prevent the sauce from drying out.
4. What’s the best way to reheat Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?
For best results, warm leftovers on the stove over low heat. Add a small splash of cream, milk, or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to keep the sauce smooth and prevent it from sticking to the pan.
5. Can I make this recipe less spicy?
Yes. Simply reduce or omit the red pepper flakes in the cowboy butter sauce. You can also add extra cream or a mild cheese to mellow out the spice without sacrificing the dish’s rich flavor.
