If you’re craving a dish that bursts with flavor, comfort, and a touch of rustic charm, the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish masterfully combines tender, juicy chicken with a luscious, buttery sauce that’s spiced just right, all tossed with perfectly cooked linguine. Whether you’re making dinner for family or impressing friends, this recipe promises a satisfying experience that’s as delicious as it is memorable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you—each one plays a vital role in giving this dish its irresistible taste and inviting texture. From the fragrant spices to the creamy sauce components, every element comes together to create a harmonious, colorful plate that’s sure to wow your taste buds.
- 8 ounces linguine pasta: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto the buttery sauce and tender chicken pieces.
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces: Provides the hearty protein base, cooked to juicy perfection.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Used for searing the chicken to golden-brown deliciousness.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild smoky flavor and a pop of vibrant color.
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt: Brings savory depth and a hint of garlic in every bite.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors naturally and balances the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat and earthiness.
- ¼ cup (4 tablespoons) cowboy butter, divided: This spiced butter is the star of the sauce with a rich, buttery kick.
- ¾ cup heavy cream: Creates a silky, indulgent sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt: Further boosts the garlic notes, making the sauce irresistibly savory.
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Introduces a subtle spicy warmth that wakes up the palate.
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice: Adds a splash of brightness and balances the richness perfectly.
- Lemon slices, for garnish: For a fresh citrus aroma and an eye-catching presentation.
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish: A pop of green freshness to complete the dish.
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Linguine
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cooking the linguine until just al dente is key—it should be tender but still have a pleasant bite to it so it holds up well when tossed in the rich sauce. Drain it carefully and set it aside while you prepare the flavorful chicken and sauce.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Warm your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Season the chicken pieces evenly with paprika, garlic salt, kosher salt, and black pepper. When your pan is hot, add the chicken and cook it until it’s golden brown on the outside and juicy through the middle. Right near the end, stir in 2 tablespoons of the cowboy butter to infuse the chicken with that signature spicy, buttery goodness. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside for the next step.
Step 3: Create the Cowboy Butter Sauce
Lower the heat to low and add the remaining cowboy butter to the same skillet, followed by the heavy cream, an extra teaspoon of garlic salt, and crushed red pepper flakes. This sauce base is where the magic happens, so be sure to scrape up all those tasty browned bits left behind from the chicken—it’s pure flavor gold. Stir gently until the butter melts completely into a luscious, creamy sauce.
Step 4: Toss and Finish
Now it’s time to bring it all together. Gently add the cooked linguine and seared chicken back into the skillet, tossing everything to coat in that silky cowboy butter sauce. Finally, stir in the fresh lemon juice for a zing of brightness that cuts through the richness beautifully. Your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe is now ready for plating!
How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe
Garnishes
A few fragrant lemon slices and a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley are the perfect finishing touches. They not only add fresh, zesty pops of flavor but also elevate the dish’s visual appeal, making it look as vibrant as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This rich and creamy linguine pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. Think simple mixed greens tossed in a light vinaigrette or oven-roasted asparagus—both provide a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe in individual shallow bowls and top with a lemon wedge for each guest to squeeze in extra citrus. You might also consider lightly toasting some garlic bread on the side to scoop up every last drop of that delectable sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should keep well for up to 3 days while still retaining its creamy texture and rich flavors.
Freezing
While you can freeze this dish, the cream sauce may slightly separate upon thawing. To freeze, place portions in freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to minimize texture changes.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce’s consistency. Stir frequently and warm until just heated through to keep the chicken tender and the linguine perfectly coated.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta instead of linguine?
Absolutely! While linguine is ideal for holding onto the creamy sauce, fettuccine or even spaghetti can work nicely if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to cook it al dente for the best texture.
What exactly is cowboy butter?
Cowboy butter is a savory, spiced butter typically loaded with garlic, herbs, and spices. It’s what gives this recipe its bold, buttery kick and deep flavor. You can find it pre-made or easily make your own by mixing softened butter with garlic, paprika, and herbs.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe has just a hint of spice thanks to the crushed red pepper flakes and paprika, but it’s generally mild and approachable. You can adjust the heat level to your preference by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
Can I substitute heavy cream with something lighter?
You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese to lighten the sauce, but keep in mind that using less fat may affect the sauce’s richness and texture slightly.
How long does this dish take to prepare?
This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe is super quick—about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, making it a fantastic option for a weeknight meal when you want something impressive but speedy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something wonderfully satisfying about the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe that makes it an instant classic in any home kitchen. The perfect balance of flavors, the creamy sauce, and tender chicken combined with simple ingredients make it a dish you’ll return to again and again. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy every mouthwatering bite just as much as I do!
Print
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A rich and flavorful Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine recipe featuring tender chicken pieces sautéed in a savory cowboy butter sauce, tossed with creamy heavy cream, linguine pasta, and finished with a hint of fresh lemon and parsley for a deliciously indulgent meal perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces linguine pasta
Chicken
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Sauce
- ¼ cup (4 tablespoons) 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
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Linguine: Cook linguine according to package directions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain well and set aside to prepare the chicken and sauce.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with paprika, garlic salt, kosher salt, and black pepper. Add chicken to skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add 2 tablespoons of cowboy butter during the last minute of cooking to melt and coat the chicken. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: Reduce heat to low and add the remaining cowboy butter to the skillet. Pour in heavy cream, then add garlic salt and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well, scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the skillet to infuse the sauce with rich flavor. Cook gently until butter is melted and sauce is slightly thickened.
- Toss Together: Add the cooked linguine and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together thoroughly to coat the pasta and chicken in the creamy cowboy butter sauce. Stir in ½ teaspoon lemon juice for a bright finish.
- Serve: Plate the linguine and garnish with fresh lemon slices and chopped parsley for a fresh and colorful presentation. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer a juicier texture.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to taste for more or less heat.
- Cowboy butter is a seasoned compound butter typically made with herbs and spices; store-bought or homemade versions work well.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though sauce may be less rich.
- Be careful not to overcook the linguine; it should remain al dente to provide the best texture.
