Name: Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine for Busy Evenings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/4 tsp black pepper; Salt to taste; 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped; 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 lb linguine pasta; 1/4 cup reserved pasta water; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

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Ever craved a meal that’s both comforting and quick? This Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is your answer! Imagine tender chicken coated in a rich, savory butter sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked linguine. It’s a flavor explosion perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests with minimal effort. This dish is inspired by the hearty, flavorful cuisine of the American West, but adapted for your modern kitchen. Let’s dive into the magic of this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Ready in under 30 minutes.
Features a deeply savory and smoky flavor profile.
Uses simple ingredients readily available in your pantry.
Offers a delightful creamy texture that’s utterly satisfying.
Requires minimal cleanup compared to more complex pasta dishes.
Budget-friendly and perfect for family dinners.
Simple enough for beginner cooks to master.
The aroma alone will fill your kitchen with warmth and comfort.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece. Remember, quality ingredients make a difference, but don’t hesitate to use what you have on hand. Let’s gather our ingredients and get ready to cook!

For the Chicken:

1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces.
1 tbsp olive oil – Choose a good quality extra virgin olive oil for best flavor.
1 tsp garlic powder – Adds a robust garlic flavor.
1 tsp onion powder – Enhances the savory notes of the chicken.
1/2 tsp smoked paprika – Toast lightly in a dry pan for a deeper, smokier flavor.
1/4 tsp black pepper – Freshly ground is always best!
Salt to taste – Start with 1/2 tsp and adjust as needed.

For the Cowboy Butter:

1/2 cup (113g or 1 stick) unsalted butter – Using unsalted allows you to control the saltiness.
4 cloves garlic, minced – Use fresh garlic for the best aromatic punch.
1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped – Adds a subtle, earthy flavor.
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped – Offers a distinct, piney aroma.
1 tbsp Dijon mustard – Provides a tangy depth to the butter.
1 tbsp lemon juice – Use freshly squeezed for a brighter flavor.
1 tsp smoked paprika – Enhances the smoky, cowboy-inspired flavor.
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – For a touch of heat.
Salt and black pepper to taste – Season to perfection!

For the Linguine:

1 lb (454g) linguine pasta – High-quality pasta makes a difference in texture.
1/4 cup reserved pasta water – This starchy water helps bind the sauce to the pasta.
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish – Adds a fresh, vibrant finish. Find fresh herbs at your local farmers’ market.

Essential Equipment List

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need to whip up this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine.

A large 12-inch skillet is essential for cooking the chicken and combining everything.
A large pot for cooking the pasta. Make sure it’s big enough to give the pasta room to move.
A colander to drain the pasta.
A mixing bowl for tossing the chicken with the spices.

Recipe Details

Here’s a quick overview of what to expect.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Difficulty: Easy

Scale up for a larger gathering, or halve the recipe for a quick meal for two!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Each step is designed to be easy and straightforward, even for beginner cooks.

Prepare the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices. This step is crucial for infusing the chicken with maximum flavor.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remember, searing the chicken helps lock in the juices and adds a beautiful color.

Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta water aside; you’ll need it later to adjust the sauce consistency.

Make the Cowboy Butter

In the same skillet used to cook the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic – burnt garlic can ruin the flavor. This step creates the aromatic base for the cowboy butter.

Add Herbs and Spices

Stir in the chopped thyme, rosemary, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until the butter is well combined and fragrant. This step is where the cowboy butter truly comes to life!

Combine Everything

Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the cowboy butter. Toss to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce. Make sure every piece of chicken is glistening with that delicious cowboy butter!

Add Pasta and Pasta Water

Add the drained linguine to the skillet with the chicken and cowboy butter. Toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. The pasta water helps emulsify the sauce and create a creamy, luscious texture.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. The fresh parsley adds a vibrant color and a burst of freshness to the dish. Enjoy your homemade Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine!

Tips for Success

Want to take your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine to the next level? Here are a few expert tips to ensure perfect results every time.

Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
Toast the smoked paprika and red pepper flakes in the dry skillet for a minute before adding the butter to enhance their flavors.
If the sauce is too thick, add more pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the perfect consistency.
Use a heavy-bottomed skillet to prevent the garlic from burning and to distribute heat evenly.
Taste and adjust the seasoning at the end. A little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference.

Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are a few ideas to customize your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine.

- For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or white beans.

Add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.
Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
Substitute the thyme and rosemary with other fresh herbs like oregano or basil.
Add a splash of cream for an even richer and creamier sauce.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Complete your meal with these delicious side dishes and drink pairings. This linguine is incredibly versatile, so feel free to experiment and find your perfect match!

Serve with a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.
Pair with roasted asparagus or broccoli for a healthy and delicious side.
Enjoy with a refreshing glass of lemonade or iced tea.
For a heartier meal, add some crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Health Benefits

This dish isn’t just delicious; it also offers some notable health benefits. Lean chicken provides a good source of protein, while the herbs and spices offer antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. The pasta provides carbohydrates for energy. All of this leads to a healthy and balanced plate.

Storage & Reheating

Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine to enjoy it later.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to the pasta and microwave until heated through.
Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Freezing is not recommended as the sauce may separate upon thawing. But if you have to, portion and wrap tightly; lasts 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While linguine is traditional, other pasta shapes like spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne work well too.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the cowboy butter and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately and combine with the cooked pasta just before serving.

How do I avoid dry pasta?

Be sure to reserve enough pasta water and add it gradually until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Also, don’t overcook the pasta, as it will continue to absorb sauce as it sits.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. Sauté them along with the garlic for added flavor.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe has a mild kick from the red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the amount to your preference. For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Just make sure to use a larger skillet or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Nutritional Information

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 650
Protein: 45g
Fat: 30g
Carbohydrates: 50g

These values are estimates; exact values depend on specific ingredients and portions. Nutritional stats need a nutrition calculator

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more easy and flavorful recipes? Check out these other delicious dishes:

Creamy Chicken Salad – A classic comfort food, perfect for sandwiches or a light lunch.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – Another creamy and delicious pasta dish for a quick weeknight meal.
Easy Creamy Ranch Chicken Recipe – A versatile chicken recipe that’s great with rice, pasta, or as a topping for baked potatoes.

Conclusion

This Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a fast, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s packed with smoky, savory flavors that will delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Whip it up tonight and tag us with your masterpiece!

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Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine for Busy Evenings