Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine: A Delicious 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 rustic cowboy flavors meet the elegance of pasta.

People adore Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine for its incredible taste and texture. The creamy sauce clings to the linguine, creating a satisfying mouthfeel that is both hearty 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 dive into 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 thighs, 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 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

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 to enhance the flavor of the pasta. 2. Once the water is boiling, add the linguine pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. 3. While the pasta is cooking, make sure to stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking together. 4. Once cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the linguine in a colander. Set it aside while you prepare the chicken and sauce.

Cooking the Chicken

5. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. I love using a cast-iron skillet for this, as it gives a nice sear to the chicken. 6. Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Toss to coat the chicken evenly with the spices. 7. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes without stirring, allowing it to get a nice golden-brown crust. 8. After the chicken has browned, stir it and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until it is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Use a meat thermometer if you want to be precise; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). 9. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Making the Cowboy Butter Sauce

10. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze and incorporate all those delicious browned bits. 11. Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Mix well to combine all the ingredients. 12. Let the sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. If it gets too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. 13. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or cayenne pepper depending on your spice preference.

Combining the Pasta and Sauce

14. Once the sauce has thickened, add the drained linguine to the skillet. Toss the pasta in the sauce until it is well coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little more of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired creaminess. 15. Cook everything together for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the sauce flavors.

Serving the Dish

16. Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top for a fresh touch. 17. If you like, you can also add grated Parmesan cheese at this stage for an extra layer of flavor. I usually serve it on the side so everyone can add as much as they like. 18. Plate the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in bowls, making sure to get a good amount of chicken and sauce with each serving. 19. Garnish with additional parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoying Your Meal

20. Serve immediately while it’s hot, and enjoy the creamy, spicy goodness of this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests at a gathering. 21. Don’t forget to pair it with a nice salad or some garlic bread to round out the meal

Conclusion:

In summary, this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their dinner game. The combination of tender chicken, rich butter sauce, and perfectly cooked linguine creates a dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. The flavors meld together beautifully, making each bite a delightful experience that will have you coming back for more. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing this dish with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread to soak up that luscious 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. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine a try and share your experience with friends and family. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out for you—I’d love to hear your thoughts and any variations you come up with! Happy cooking! Print