This Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a fun mix of creamy butter sauce, juicy chicken, and pasta. It’s quick to make and perfect for a tasty dinner!
You’ll love how the buttery sauce gives this dish a warm and inviting flavor. I sometimes add a sprinkle of cheese on top just to make it extra special. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Linguine Pasta: This flat pasta works well with sauces. If you’re out, spaghetti or fettuccine can be great alternatives!
Chicken: I love using boneless chicken breasts for tenderness. You could swap it with thighs for more flavor, or use cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
Butter: The butter really brings out the richness. You can substitute it with olive oil for a lighter option, or even use ghee for a nutty twist.
Heavy Cream: If you prefer a lower-fat version, half-and-half works too. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream – it adds a unique flavor!
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a nice kick. If you can’t find it, regular paprika is fine, but you may miss that deep smoky flavor.
How Can I Make Sure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken well is crucial for any dish. Here’s how to ensure it’s juicy and flavorful:
- Cut the chicken into equal-sized pieces, so they cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Give the chicken space to brown properly and develop flavor.
- Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally for about 6–8 minutes until it’s no longer pink in the middle.
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
By following these tips, your chicken will be perfectly cooked every time!
Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips or bite-sized pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a mild smoky “cowboy” flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend approximately 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the pasta, and another 20 minutes for cooking the chicken and making the creamy sauce. It’s quick and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Linguine:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once it’s melted, add the chicken pieces. Season them with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if you’re using it). Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 6–8 minutes until the chicken is completely cooked through and browned. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Prepare the Cream Sauce:
Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 2–3 minutes until it slightly thickens. It will create a lovely creamy base for the sauce.
5. Incorporate the Cheese:
Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely into the sauce, creating a rich and creamy texture. Taste, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Combine Chicken and Pasta:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it well with the creamy sauce so it’s fully coated. Then, add the drained linguine to the skillet and mix everything together until the pasta is beautifully coated in the buttery sauce.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Your Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is now ready! Serve it hot, and feel free to garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious and comforting meal!
Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While linguine is perfect for this dish, you can also use spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary based on the pasta shape.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love a bit of heat, consider adding more cayenne pepper or some chopped fresh jalapeño when cooking the chicken. You could also top the finished dish with red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Sure! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just be sure to reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve for the best texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them up on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.