Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

A bold and creamy pasta dish packed with flavor! This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine combines juicy, seasoned chicken with a rich, buttery sauce for a perfect pasta experience. The added kick of paprika and chili flakes gives it just the right amount of heat, while the fresh lemon juice and parsley brighten everything up.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re craving a pasta dish that’s full of flavor and easy to make, Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is your new go-to recipe. The chicken is perfectly seasoned, the sauce is rich and creamy, and the combination of spices and lemon makes each bite feel like a burst of deliciousness. It’s an ideal dish for weeknight dinners when you want something that feels special but doesn’t require hours of cooking.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 chicken breasts, cubed

• 8 oz linguine pasta

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 3 tbsp butter

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1/2 tsp chili flakes

• Salt & pepper to taste

• Juice of 1/2 lemon

• Fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

1. Cook the linguine according to package directions, then drain and set aside.

2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken, seasoning it with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook the chicken until it’s browned and cooked through.

3. Add the butter, minced garlic, and chili flakes to the skillet. Stir everything together until the butter is melted and the garlic is fragrant.

4. Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet. Add the lemon juice and chopped parsley. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.

5. Serve hot, topped with extra parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Veggies: Toss in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to add more texture and flavor.

• Spicy Version: Increase the chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

• Chicken Alternatives: If you prefer, you can swap the chicken for shrimp or even a plant-based protein for a different twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it moist. You can also microwave it in a covered dish for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta you like, such as spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine.

2. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

It’s best to use fresh chicken for this recipe, but you can use frozen chicken if needed. Just make sure it’s fully thawed and cooked through before adding it to the skillet.

3. How spicy is this dish?

The dish has a mild heat thanks to the paprika and chili flakes, but it’s easily adjustable to your spice preference.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While pasta is best fresh, you can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then combine and heat when ready to serve.

5. Can I use a different type of butter?

You can use salted or unsalted butter based on your preference, but keep in mind to adjust the salt level accordingly.

6. How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this dairy-free, use dairy-free butter or oil instead of the butter, and substitute a plant-based cream for the creamy elements.

7. What can I use if I don’t have linguine?

Any long pasta like spaghetti, fettuccine, or tagliatelle will work well in this recipe.

8. Can I add cheese to this dish?

Absolutely! Grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano would be a great addition for extra flavor.

9. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This pasta holds up well in the fridge and can easily be packed for lunches or dinners throughout the week.

10. Can I add other seasonings?

Feel free to experiment with other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning to customize the dish to your taste.

Conclusion

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. With its creamy butter sauce, tender chicken, and spicy kick, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious and satisfying. Whether you make it as written or customize it with your favorite variations, this dish will never disappoint!