If you’re craving something rich, savory, and a little spicy, Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine will absolutely hit the spot. This dish brings together the smoky, garlicky punch of cowboy butter with tender chicken and silky linguine, creating a meal that’s deeply comforting yet bold in flavor. Every bite is packed with juicy bites of seasoned chicken, a creamy, buttery sauce with hints of heat, and pasta that soaks up every last drop.
This is the kind of recipe you make when you want a restaurant-quality meal without the hassle. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or just want a midweek dinner idea that tastes like a splurge, Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is the easy recipe you’ll keep coming back to. Creamy, spicy, garlicky, and indulgent—it’s everything you want in a satisfying dinner idea.
Ingredients for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced into strips
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step 1: Cook the Linguine
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, toss lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken
In a medium bowl, toss the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes. Let everything simmer together for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Add the Cream and Cheese
Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for another 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Then, add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until fully melted into the sauce.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the drained linguine. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce and the chicken is evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Storage Instructions
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine stores well and makes for fantastic leftovers. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
- Freezer: This dish can be frozen, but the cream-based sauce may change texture slightly. If freezing, allow the pasta to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Estimated Nutrition
Per serving (based on 4 servings total):
- Calories: ~620 kcal
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
Note: Nutrition values may vary based on ingredient brands and exact measurements used.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cowboy butter?
Cowboy butter is a zesty compound butter made with garlic, lemon juice, mustard, herbs, and spices. It adds bold flavor and richness to this pasta.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti all work well. Choose a pasta shape that can hold the creamy sauce.
Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild to medium heat level from the red pepper flakes and cayenne. Adjust the spice to your preference.
Can I make it ahead of time?
You can prep the sauce and chicken in advance, but for best texture, cook the pasta fresh and combine just before serving.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just skip the searing step and warm it in the sauce.
How do I make it dairy-free?
Substitute plant-based butter, dairy-free cream (like coconut cream or cashew cream), and vegan Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
What sides go well with this dish?
A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted veggies make great companions to balance out the richness.
Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Definitely! Try adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to bulk it up and add more nutrients.
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