There’s something downright enticing about the aroma of Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine wafting through your kitchen, as if a culinary cowboy just rode in to lasso your taste buds. Picture tender chicken bathed in a rich, buttery sauce, mingling with perfectly cooked linguine that’s begging for a twirl on your fork. Garlic Butter Chicken Sandwiches The flavors dance together like a lively hoedown, bringing comfort and joy in every bite.
I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends were skeptical. “Butter in pasta? Really?” they said, eyebrows raised like two galloping horses. But just one mouthful later, they were serenading me with compliments! Now, we whip it up for everything from cozy family dinners to impromptu gatherings. Flavorful Mexican Rice It’s the kind of dish that turns any meal into a celebration.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any dinner table. This recipe is incredibly versatile; you can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have at home. Plus, it’s perfect for both casual weeknights and special occasions. [/info_box]
I once served this dish during a game night, and let’s just say the Cowboys weren’t the only ones who scored big that evening.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Approximately 3-4 chicken breasts work well; adjust based on your guest list or appetite.
Fresh Garlic: Opt for firm garlic cloves; they pack more flavor than those sad bulbs sitting in the back of your pantry.
Linguine Pasta: I prefer using linguine for its texture; it holds onto sauce like a cowboy clinging to his hat.
Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter for rich flavor; nothing beats that creamy goodness.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped finely for garnish; it adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch will spice things up; adjust according to your heat tolerance.
Lemon Zest: It brightens up all the flavors beautifully; don’t skip it unless you’re feeling rebellious!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water over high heat. Once bubbling like an enthusiastic rodeo crowd, add the linguine and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt half of the butter over medium heat. Add cubed chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Let those golden bits form—trust me, they’re flavor gold!
Add Garlic and Spices: Toss in minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes into the skillet once the chicken is done cooking. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant—your kitchen should smell like heaven right now.
Create the Sauce: Reduce heat to low and stir in remaining butter until melted. Add lemon zest and some reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce that hugs every strand of linguine perfectly. For more inspiration, check out this simple lemon caper sauce recipe.
Toss Everything Together: Add cooked linguine straight into the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss everything together until well combined; this is where magic happens!
Garnish and Serve!: Remove from heat and sprinkle fresh parsley over everything for an extra touch of flair. Serve hot with more crushed red pepper flakes if you dare!
This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine will have everyone at your table asking for seconds—just be prepared to share your secret recipe! Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a delightful blend of flavors; it’s creamy, tangy, and utterly satisfying. The subtle spice from the cowboy butter sauce adds depth, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a cozy meal at home. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then cook the linguine while preparing the rich cowboy butter sauce. This sequence ensures everything finishes at the same time for maximum flavor and texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap linguine for your favorite pasta or add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color. Spice lovers can also kick up the heat with a pinch of cayenne.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain creaminess.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F. When cooking pasta, always salt the water generously for enhanced flavor. Keep an eye on your sauce; overcooking can lead to separation and loss of creaminess. [/info_box]
I once made this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine for a dinner party, and let’s just say my friends didn’t leave any leftovers! The laughter and compliments filled my kitchen, reminding me that good food creates unforgettable memories. Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more moisture and richness to the dish.
How spicy is Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?
For more inspiration, check out this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken recipe.
The spice level is mild but can be adjusted to your preference with seasoning.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Garlic bread or a fresh garden salad complements this linguine beautifully.
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, rich buttery sauce, and perfectly cooked linguine for a comforting meal that impresses every time. The aromas of garlic and fresh herbs fill your kitchen as this easy recipe comes together, making it perfect for everything from casual weeknight dinners to special occasions. With its vibrant presentation and creamy texture, this dish will have everyone at your table asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add linguine and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt half of the butter over medium heat. Add cubed chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Create the Sauce: Reduce heat to low, add remaining butter until melted. Stir in lemon zest and reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce.
- Toss Everything Together: Add cooked linguine into the skillet with chicken and sauce; toss until well combined.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle fresh parsley on top, serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
