When the day winds down and the craving for something warm and hearty kicks in, Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine steps in like an old friend with a comforting hug. This dish is more than just pasta; it’s a melody of flavors that come together effortlessly, turning an ordinary night into a special occasion.
One evening, as the sun dipped behind the horizon, the kitchen filled with the smoky aroma of paprika and garlic mingling with butter melting in the pan. The tender chicken sizzled gently, its spices forming a golden crust that promised rich, bold flavors. As I stirred the creamy sauce, the scent of fresh parsley and chives brightened the air, balancing the deep richness. Twirling the linguine into the sauce, every bite was a comforting reminder that some meals just have a way of making the world feel a little softer, a little warmer.
- Rich, buttery sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of linguine
- Smoky, spiced chicken pieces that add depth and heartiness
- Fresh herbs that brighten and balance the richness with every bite
- Ready in just over half an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights
- Comforting and satisfying enough for dinner guests or family meals
If you’re wondering about leftovers, no worries. This dish reheats beautifully, with a splash of broth bringing back that luscious texture. It’s just as welcoming the next day, perfect for a quick lunch or an easy dinner redo.
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Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A hearty and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender chicken breast cooked in a rich cowboy butter sauce, tossed with linguine and fresh herbs for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
12 ounces linguine pasta
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
Season the chicken pieces with the spice mixture, tossing to coat evenly.
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cooked through and golden brown. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Stir in heavy cream and lemon juice. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.
Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss well to combine with the chicken and sauce.
Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley, chives, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley or Parmesan if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
FAQ
Can I use other types of pasta? Absolutely! While linguine works wonderfully here, fettuccine or even penne can hold the sauce just as well.
Is the sauce spicy? It has a mild kick from the chili powder and smoked paprika but nothing overwhelming—just enough warmth to be inviting.
Can I make it dairy-free? You could substitute the butter and cream with dairy-free alternatives, but the sauce will have a different texture and richness.
How long can leftovers be stored? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a little broth to keep it saucy.
This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is waiting to turn your next dinner into a cozy, flavorful moment. Don’t just scroll past—save it, print it, and cook it for a meal that’s truly worth savoring.