Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe

Introduction

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, buttery sauce and perfectly cooked linguine. The addition of garlic, smoked paprika, and fresh lemon juice adds depth and brightness to every bite. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that feels special.

Ingredients

• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs), cubed
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 8 oz linguine pasta
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the linguine in boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: Season the cubed chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Step 3: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
4. Step 4: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
5. Step 5: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it reduce slightly for about 3-4 minutes.
6. Step 6: Stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Step 7: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add the linguine and chopped parsley, tossing everything together until well combined and heated through.
8. Step 8: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For extra richness, add a handful of grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce before tossing with pasta.
• Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
• Add red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
• Use fresh herbs like thyme or basil instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, feel free to substitute linguine with fettuccine, spaghetti, or any pasta you prefer. Adjust cooking time according to the pasta type.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

You can make the sauce in advance and refrigerate it separately. When ready to serve, reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta and chicken for best results.

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 60 reviews

This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a rich and creamy pasta dish featuring tender cubed chicken breasts cooked in a flavorful garlic butter sauce with smoked paprika and lemon juice. Combined with linguine pasta and fresh parsley, this hearty meal brings a delightful blend of smoky and tangy flavors that’s perfect for a comforting dinner.

• Author: Bella
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Seasonings

• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs), cubed
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Sauce

• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Juice of 1 lemon

Pasta and Garnish

• 8 oz linguine pasta
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Season the chicken: In a bowl, toss the cubed chicken breasts with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to evenly coat.
3. Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt 2 tablespoons of the butter. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
4. Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
5. Make the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Add lemon juice and chicken: Stir in the lemon juice, then return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Mix well to coat the chicken with the sauce. Simmer for an additional 2 minutes to meld flavors.
7. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss to evenly coat the pasta with the creamy butter chicken sauce.
8. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the linguine, adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed, and serve immediately.

Notes

• For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
• You can add some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Fresh parsley adds color and freshness; if unavailable, substitute with basil or cilantro.
• Ensure not to overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness.
• To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta instead of linguine.

Keywords: Cowboy Butter Chicken, linguine pasta, creamy chicken pasta, garlic butter sauce, smoked paprika chicken, easy dinner recipe