Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine: A Flavorful Twist on Classic Pasta Dishes

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a delightful fusion dish that brings together the rich flavors of the American West and the comforting essence of Italian cuisine. Imagine tender chicken bathed in a luscious, buttery sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and a hint of spice, all served over perfectly cooked linguine. This recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also tells a story of culinary creativity, where traditional boundaries are blurred to create something truly special.

People love Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine for its incredible taste and texture. The creamy sauce clings to the pasta, creating a satisfying mouthfeel that is both indulgent and comforting. Plus, it’s a convenient dish that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner with friends. Join me as we explore this delicious recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound linguine pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Optional: red pepper flakes for garnish

Preparing the Pasta

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. I usually add about a tablespoon of salt to the water; it helps flavor the pasta as it cooks. 2. Once the water is boiling, add the linguine pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. 3. When the pasta is done, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest. Set the pasta aside in a large bowl.

Cooking the Chicken

4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the bite-sized chicken pieces. 5. Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Stir to coat the chicken evenly with the spices. 6. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. You can check for doneness by cutting into a piece; it should be no longer pink in the center. 7. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Making the Cowboy Butter Sauce

8. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Let it melt and start to bubble. 9. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it can turn bitter quickly. 10. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. 11. Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. 12. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the sauce and cook for an additional 2 minutes, just until they start to soften.

Combining Everything

13. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to combine it with the sauce and tomatoes. 14. Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. 15. Stir in the chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. 16. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You might want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or even some red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Serving the Dish

17. Once everything is well combined and heated through, it’s time to serve! I like to plate the linguine in shallow bowls for a nice presentation. 18. Garnish each serving with additional parsley, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and a dash of red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. 19. Serve immediately while it’s hot and enjoy the rich, buttery flavors of this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine!

Tips and Variations

20. If you want to add some veggies, consider tossing in some spinach or bell peppers when you add the tomatoes. They’ll add color and nutrition to the dish. 21. For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative. 22. If you’re a fan of herbs, feel free to experiment with fresh basil or thyme for a different flavor profile. 23. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in

Conclusion:

In summary, this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinner game. The combination of tender chicken, rich and flavorful cowboy butter sauce, and perfectly cooked linguine creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this dish with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread to soak up that delicious sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, or even swapping out the chicken for shrimp or a plant-based protein for a different twist. I encourage you to give this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine a try and experience the delightful flavors for yourself. Once you do, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Cooking is all about sharing and enjoying, so let’s spread the love for this incredible dish together! Print