Did you know that the secret to a truly comforting meal can be a simple combination of ingredients that packs a punch? Imagine the aroma of savory chicken paired with a creamy, zesty sauce that transforms a regular pasta night into something special. That’s exactly what you’ll discover with this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. This delightful recipe melds tender chicken with al dente linguine swimming in a luscious sauce enriched by cowboy butter, heavy cream, and just the right kick of crushed red pepper.
What I adore about this dish is its speed and creamy goodness—it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. Plus, it's a hit with the entire family; no more battling with picky eaters when you serve up this flavor-packed meal!
Ready to whip up something extraordinary in your kitchen? Let’s dive in and create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why is Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine a must-try?
Quick preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for dinner on hectic nights.
Creamy indulgence: The rich, velvety sauce, featuring cowboy butter and heavy cream, creates a satisfying experience that will leave you craving more.
Flavorful punch: A hint of crushed red pepper adds just the right amount of kick, perfectly balancing the creaminess and elevating the taste.
Family-friendly: Even picky eaters won't resist this delicious combination of chicken and pasta!
Versatile options: Feel free to customize with veggies or swap proteins, ensuring everyone gets their favorite bite. If you're a fan of savory flavors, don't miss out on trying these cheesy garlic chicken wraps as another crowd-pleaser!
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Linguine – The main carbohydrate, providing the perfect bite; feel free to swap in any pasta shape you love.
For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (1½ pounds) – Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking; chicken thighs or tofu are great substitutes.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (2 tablespoons) – Adds flavor while searing the chicken; other oils can work if preferred.
• Paprika (½ teaspoon) – Brings mild spice and color; smoked paprika can enrich the flavor profile.
• Garlic Salt (½ teaspoon) – Adds savory depth; mix regular salt with minced garlic if you want to use fresh.
• Kosher Salt (½ teaspoon) – Essential for seasoning; feel free to use brown or sea salt instead.
• Pepper (¼ teaspoon) – Just enough seasoning to enhance the dish.
For the Sauce
• Cowboy Butter (¼ cup, divided) – This luscious mix of garlic, herbs, and spices is the heart of the dish; regular garlic butter can stand in as needed.
• Heavy Cream (¾ cup) – Gives richness and a creamy texture; switch to light cream for a slimmer version.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (¼ teaspoon) – This adds a spicy balance to the creamy sauce; adjust based on your spice tolerance.
• Lemon Juice (½ teaspoon) – Brightens the sauce; lime juice works well if you have it on hand.
For Garnish
• Lemon Slices – Adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the dish.
• Chopped Parsley – Provides freshness; other herbs can be a delightful alternative.
Embrace the creamy comfort and vibrant flavors of Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in your next family dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Step 1
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water over high heat. Once the water is at a rolling boil, add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until it's al dente, which usually takes about 9-11 minutes. This will ensure that the pasta retains a delightful bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta well in a colander and set it aside, allowing any excess water to evaporate.
Step 2
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the bite-sized pieces of boneless skinless chicken breasts in a single layer. Season the chicken evenly with ½ teaspoon of paprika, ½ teaspoon of garlic salt, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon of pepper. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes until it turns golden brown on one side, creating a flavorful crust that locks in moisture.
Step 3
Carefully flip the chicken pieces over in the skillet and add 2 tablespoons of cowboy butter. Continue cooking the chicken until it’s fully cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This should take another 3-4 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm by covering it loosely with foil while you prepare the sauce.
Step 4
Next, reduce the heat to low and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of cowboy butter to the skillet. Pour in ¾ cup of heavy cream, along with an additional sprinkle of garlic salt and ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Stir gently, scraping the brown bits from the bottom of the pan; they add incredible depth of flavor to your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. Continue stirring until the butter has melted and the sauce is well combined and heated through.
Step 5
Return the cooked linguine and the sautéed chicken back to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the rich sauce. To brighten the flavors, stir in ½ teaspoon of lemon juice, mixing well until the lemon's acidity cuts through the creaminess and enhances the overall taste.
Step 6
Serve your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine immediately, garnished with fresh lemon slices for a burst of color and chopped parsley to add a touch of brightness. This dish is not only visually appealing but also promises a creamy, comforting experience with every bite. Enjoy a delicious meal that your whole family will love!
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to make this dish your own with these delightful tweaks and substitutions!
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta like rice noodles or quinoa pasta for a tasty option that everyone can enjoy.
- Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh, letting it absorb the decadent sauce and provide a satisfying bite.
- Veggie Boost: Add vibrant vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrition and color.
- Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and cowboy butter with a vegan butter alternative for a rich, dairy-free experience.
- Protein Switch: Try shrimp or steak in place of chicken, adjusting cooking times accordingly; shrimp cooks quickly while steak can offer a savory depth.
- Herbed Flavor: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or dill for a refreshing twist that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Extra Heat: For spice lovers, add jalapeños or increase the crushed red pepper flakes to kick things up a notch.
- Zesty Variations: Squeeze fresh lime juice instead of lemon for a twist that brightens up the flavor profile uniquely.
These variations ensure that your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine never feels the same twice and can cater to every taste preference in your family!
Tips for the Best Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
- Uniform Chicken Pieces: Ensure the chicken is cut into even sizes. This promotes even cooking, avoiding any dry or undercooked pieces in your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine.
- Brown Bits Matter: Don’t skip scraping the brown bits from the skillet when making the sauce. This enhances flavor and adds depth to your dish.
- Spice to Taste: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes based on your spice preference. Taste before serving to find the perfect balance!
- Don't Overcook Pasta: Remember to cook the linguine until just al dente. It will continue to soften in the sauce, resulting in a mushy texture if overcooked.
- Rest Before Storing: If storing leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container to maintain texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the chicken and prepare the creamy cowboy butter sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow steps 1 through 4 of the recipe, then refrigerate the cooked chicken and sauce separately to maintain their delicious flavors and textures. When you're ready to serve, reheat the chicken in a skillet until warmed through, then bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Toss everything with the linguine that you've cooked fresh, adding a splash of cream if needed for consistency. This way, you’ll enjoy a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that perfectly complement the creamy and savory flavors of your pasta dish.
- Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery crunch of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that luscious sauce, making each bite heavenly.
- Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy linguine, balancing flavors delightfully.
- Roasted Broccoli: Nutty and slightly charred, roasted broccoli adds a vibrant color and essential nutrients, making your meal more wholesome and balanced.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: The sweet, juicy kernels of corn bring a pop of freshness and a touch of summer to your table, enhancing the dish’s comfort food vibes.
- Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, crunchy elements of coleslaw provide a satisfying texture contrast, while its tangy dressing complements the rich flavors beautifully.
- Sparkling Lemonade: A glass of bubbly lemonade offers a refreshing and zesty experience, cutting through the richness of the linguine for a delightful sip.
Pairing any of these options with your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine can transform a simple dinner into a cherished family meal that everyone will love!
How to Store and Freeze Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing to preserve texture.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water or cream to avoid drying out.
Cooling Tip: Allow the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine to cool to room temperature before storing to retain its creamy consistency.
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe FAQs
Does butter chicken sauce work with pasta?
Absolutely! Butter chicken sauce, with its rich, creamy texture and savory flavors, is a fantastic match for pasta. It adds a unique twist to traditional pasta dishes, making your meal not just delicious but also comforting.
What goes into cowboy butter?
Cowboy butter typically includes a blend of butter, garlic, fresh herbs (like parsley and chives), and spices. This combination creates a flavorful compound butter that elevates any dish, especially when paired with chicken and pasta in recipes like Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine.
What is the secret to a good butter chicken?
The secret lies in balancing flavors. A good butter chicken includes a well-seasoned sauce, which is creamy yet tangy, usually from ingredients like heavy cream and lemon juice. Tasting and adjusting seasonings throughout the cooking process ensures a dish that strikes the perfect balance between richness and acidity.
Can you have butter chicken with noodles?
Yes, you can! Many enjoy butter chicken with various types of noodles, and it works exceptionally well with fettucine or linguine. This delicious fusion gives you a comforting meal perfect for pasta lovers who appreciate diverse flavors.
How long can I store leftovers?
Stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge, Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine will stay fresh for 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing; it can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Just remember to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it up!
What are some common troubleshooting tips?
If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it without losing flavor. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken. Always taste the sauce before serving to adjust seasoning and spiciness according to your preference.
Delicious Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in 30 Minutes!
Ingredients
- 12 ounces linguine
- 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- ¼ cup cowboy butter divided
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice
- lemon slices
- chopped parsley
Instructions
- Start by boiling a large pot of salted water over high heat. Once boiling, add the linguine and cook until al dente (9-11 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with paprika, garlic salt, kosher salt, and pepper. Sear until golden brown (3-4 minutes).
- Flip the chicken and add 2 tablespoons of cowboy butter, cooking until fully cooked through (another 3-4 minutes). Remove and keep warm.
- Reduce heat to low, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of cowboy butter and the heavy cream. Add garlic salt and crushed red pepper flakes, stirring until well combined.
- Return the linguine and chicken to the skillet, tossing everything in the sauce. Stir in lemon juice to balance the flavors.
- Serve immediately, garnished with lemon slices and chopped parsley.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is cut into even sizes for uniform cooking.
- Don't skip scraping the brown bits from the skillet to enhance flavor.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to your spice preference.
- Cook the linguine until just al dente to avoid mushiness.
- Let pasta cool before storing to maintain texture.
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