How to Make Best Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Hey there, fellow food lovers! Are you ready to dive into a dish that’s as hearty as it is flavorful? Today, I’m thrilled to share with you my secret recipe for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine—a creamy, savory, and downright delicious pasta dish that’s perfect for quick family dinners or special occasions. This recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves easy pasta recipes, and it’s ready in just 30 minutes! Yes, you read that right—this is one of those 30-minute meals that will become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, creamy sauce with a perfect balance of tangy and savory flavors
• Tender, juicy chicken cooked to perfection
• Quick and easy to make—ready in under 30 minutes
• Perfect for weeknight dinner ideas or a cozy night in
• Customizable to suit your spice level preferences
• Pairs beautifully with a variety of sides for a complete meal

Ingredients

To make this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 12 oz linguine
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s get cooking! This recipe is a breeze to follow, and I’ve broken it down into simple steps for you. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, you’ll find this easy to follow.

Step 1: Cook the Linguine

Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water—this is a pro tip to ensure your sauce has the perfect consistency. Once the linguine is cooked, set it aside until you’re ready to combine it with the sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it into bite-sized pieces. Don’t worry if the chicken picks up some nice browned bits from the skillet—that’s where the magic happens!

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Simmer this mixture for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.

Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Let it simmer for another 2 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce feels too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your liking.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the sliced chicken back to the skillet, followed by the cooked linguine. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Cook for 1-2 more minutes to let the flavors meld together. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a fresh, herby touch.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine to a serving dish or individual plates. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese on top and serve immediately. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it’s also delicious reheated for lunch the next day.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are a few tips to ensure your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine turns out perfectly every time:

• Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t skip reserving the pasta water—it’s a simple trick that helps achieve the perfect sauce consistency.
• Use High-Quality Ingredients: While this recipe is budget-friendly, using high-quality Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley will elevate the dish to the next level.
• Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. If you like it extra spicy, feel free to add more!
• Add Some Color: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Try pairing it with my Best Savory Garlic Butter Roasted Vegetables for a complete dinner.

How to Serve

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• With a Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts add a nice contrast in texture. Check out my recipe for Perfect Roasted Asparagus and Carrots for inspiration.
• With Garlic Bread: Because what’s a pasta dish without garlic bread? Try my Garlic Butter Parmesan Potatoes for a satisfying side.

Make Ahead and Storage

While this recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare parts of it ahead of time or store leftovers for later. Here’s how:

• Make Ahead: Cook the linguine and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Cook the chicken and prepare the sauce just before serving for the best results.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water if the sauce has thickened too much.

And there you have it—my secret recipe for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for quick family dinners, easy pasta recipes, or weeknight dinner ideas, this dish checks all the boxes. So go ahead, give it a try, and let me know what you think in the comments below. Happy cooking! 🍽️