Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine: A Savory and Rich Pasta Experience 🍝 cowboy butter 🌼🔥
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a chicken linguine recipe that delivers bold flavors and an indulgently creamy texture, then the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is the perfect choice. This hearty dish combines tender, succulent chicken, a flavorful cowboy butter sauce, and al dente linguine to create a truly rich pasta experience that satisfies even the most discerning palates. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at your next gathering, this recipe promises a delightful culinary journey filled with savory and comforting flavors. For more pasta recipes, visit our Pasta Tag and explore other delicious dish ideas.
2. Ingredients
- 12 oz chicken (boneless and skinless, sliced into strips)
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 4 tbsp cowboy butter (see below for recipe)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil, for cooking
3. What is Cowboy Butter? How to Make a Rich Pasta Sauce
Cowboy butter is a flavorful, buttery sauce infused with herbs, spices, and often a smoky touch. It acts as the perfect base for creating a rich pasta dish like Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. To prepare cowboy butter, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter and stir in minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped herbs (such as parsley, cilantro, or basil), smoked paprika, and a dash of chili flakes for heat. This versatile sauce not only elevates your chicken linguine but also complements seafood and vegetable dishes. For other ways to use cowboy butter, check out our creamy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese recipe.
4. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Flavored Chicken Linguine
Prepare the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until it reaches al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced poultry, season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the cowboy butter mixture and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, adjust salt and pepper to taste, and add a pinch more smoked paprika if desired.
Combine Chicken and Pasta
- Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sauce.
- Gently toss in the drained linguine, ensuring each strand is coated with the flavorful, creamy sauce.
- Let it cook for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld seamlessly.
5. Tips for Storing and Serving
Store leftover chicken linguine in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to maintain the dish’s creamy texture. For an added touch of freshness, sprinkle with extra chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese before serving. For side dishes, consider serving alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.
6. Serving Suggestions and Perfect Pairings
This chicken linguine dish pairs excellently with a crisp, fresh salad and warm garlic bread. For beverages, a chilled Chardonnay or a light lager complements the richness of the cowboy butter sauce beautifully. For a more indulgent experience, try pairing it with a glass of sparkling water infused with lemon. For more pasta inspiration, visit our recipe collection.
7. FAQs about Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
What is the best pasta to use for chicken linguine dishes?
While linguine is ideal because of its flat, long shape that captures sauce well, you can also substitute with fettuccine, pappardelle, or even spaghetti for a similar sauce absorption experience. Explore more pasta options in our pasta tag.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes! Add extra chili flakes or hot sauce to the cowboy butter for a spicy twist that elevates the flavor profile of your chicken linguine.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or cashew cream, and use whole wheat linguine to increase fiber. Incorporate vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrients and color.
8. Final Tips for Creating the Perfect Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Ensure high-quality ingredients for the best flavor, especially fresh herbs and authentic cowboy butter. The richness of homemade cowboy butter provides the signature depth necessary for a memorable rich pasta experience. Serve immediately to retain the perfect creamy texture, and garnish with fresh herbs for a vibrant presentation. For more tips on making pasta dishes, visit the dinner category.
9. Conclusion
Experience the irresistible blend of flavors with this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. Combining tender chicken, a velvety cowboy butter sauce, and perfectly cooked linguine results in a deep, savory, and satisfying rich pasta meal. Whether you’re planning a special dinner or a comforting family meal, this recipe is guaranteed to impress with its bold flavors and indulgent texture. Elevate your pasta game today and enjoy every bite of this savory delight!
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Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a rich and savory pasta dish featuring tender chicken, a flavorful cowboy butter sauce, and perfectly cooked linguine. This indulgent recipe combines bold flavors and creamy textures, making it an ideal choice for a hearty weeknight dinner or entertaining guests. Experience the perfect blend of buttery spices and comforting pasta in every bite.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 12 oz chicken (boneless and skinless, sliced into strips)
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 4 tbsp cowboy butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add cowboy butter mixture and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Add cooked chicken back into the skillet. Gently toss in the drained linguine, ensuring thorough coating with the sauce.
- Cook for another 2 minutes to meld flavors. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to maintain creaminess.
- For a spicier version, add chili flakes or hot sauce to the cowboy butter sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb (if using low-carb pasta)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 620 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 130mg