This Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine combines juicy chicken with a buttery sauce and makes dinner a breeze! Tossed with pasta, it’s full of rich flavors that everyone will love.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a good creamy pasta dish? I enjoy making this on busy nights because it’s quick and satisfying. Plus, leftovers are always a tasty treat for lunch! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Linguine Pasta: I find linguine is perfect for this dish as its flat shape holds the sauce beautifully. If you’re out of linguine, spaghetti or fettuccine works just as well!
Chicken Breasts: Boneless skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe, but thighs add a richer flavor. If you’re vegetarian, you can substitute with firm tofu or chickpeas for protein.
Cowboy Butter: This special butter adds wonderful flavor! If you’re short on time, premade garlic herb butter from the store is a convenient option. You could also make a simple version by mixing softened butter with garlic and herbs.
Heavy Cream: While cream gives a rich texture, you can use half-and-half for a lighter option, or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a twist!
Spices: Smoked paprika gives depth, but if you want a milder flavor, you can stick to regular paprika. Adjust the cayenne pepper based on your spice preference!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken so it’s juicy and tender is key! Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet properly before adding the chicken. This helps give it a nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed to avoid steaming the chicken.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—aim for 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s cooked through.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking for extra juiciness before slicing or adding it back to the sauce.
Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz linguine pasta
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons cowboy butter (see note for homemade version)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes prepping and cooking the ingredients, and then the rest is for simmering and combining everything. Dinner on the table in a flash!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Linguine:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes soft. Then, add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, cumin, and oregano. Stir and cook for about 1 minute until the spices become fragrant.
4. Combine with Cowboy Butter:
Now, stir in the cowboy butter until it melts and combines with the onions and spices. Pour in the chicken broth and let the mixture come to a light simmer, cooking for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Bring It All Together:
Add the heavy cream to the skillet and stir well. Return the cooked chicken back to the skillet. Let everything simmer for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the chicken nicely.
6. Combine with Pasta:
Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and gently toss everything together until well combined and heated through. Make sure the pasta is coated in that delicious sauce!
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and dig into your scrumptious Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine!
Note: Cowboy butter is a delicious herb and garlic butter. For a quick homemade version, mix softened butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and a pinch of cayenne. Adjust the seasonings to your taste!
FAQ for Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Can I Use Different Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While linguine is perfect for this dish, you can easily substitute it with spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose!
What’s a Good Substitute for Chicken?
If you want to make this dish vegetarian, you can replace the chicken with firm tofu, chickpeas, or grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. Make sure to season appropriately for best flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the sauce thickens too much when reheating, you can add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply cook the pasta, combine it with the reheated sauce and chicken, and enjoy!
