Name: Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces linguine; 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch bites; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 0.5 teaspoon paprika; 0.5 teaspoon garlic salt; 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt; 0.25 teaspoon pepper; 0.25 cup cowboy butter (divided); 0.75 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon garlic salt; 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 0.5 teaspoon lemon juice; lemon slices (for garnish); parsley (chopped for garnish)

Introduction to Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

If you're looking for a dish that marries rich flavors with comfort, look no further than Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. This recipe combines tender chicken with a buttery, creamy sauce, all tossed with al dente linguine to create a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish reflects the heartiness of cowboy cuisine while maintaining a contemporary twist.

Why you’ll love Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

One bite of this creamy delight, and you'll understand its appeal. The infusion of cowboy butter—a delightful blend of flavors—adds depth that’s hard to resist. Add in the spice from red pepper flakes and a splash of lemon juice, and you've got a perfect balance of flavors that awake your senses and keep your palate excited.

Cooking this meal is as simple as it is delicious. The one-skillet method not only makes cleanup a breeze but also allows the chicken to absorb all those mouthwatering flavors from the sauce.

Ready to discover more? Check out this recipe for cowboy butter and elevate your dinner tonight! Don't forget to grab some fresh parsley for garnish to add a pop of color and freshness. Trust us, once you try this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, it will become a household favorite!

Ingredients for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Essential ingredients

To whip up a delightful serving of Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, you'll need a few essential components that make this dish sing. Here’s your shopping list:

Linguine: 8 ounces is the perfect amount for a hearty meal.
Chicken: Opt for 1 ½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch bites for easy cooking and eating.
Spices: Have paprika, garlic salt, kosher salt, and pepper handy; these elevate the flavor beautifully.
Cowboy Butter: A key ingredient, ¼ cup (or 4 tablespoons) of this flavorful butter makes all the difference in your sauce!
Heavy Cream: ¾ cup adds richness and creaminess.
Red Pepper Flakes and Lemon Juice: To balance out flavors, these will elevate your dish.

Optional add-ins

Feel free to personalize your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine with these optional add-ins!

Veggies: Toss in some sautéed bell peppers or spinach for added color and nutrition.
Cheese: Grated Parmesan can enhance creaminess and flavor.
Protein: If you're a fan of variety, consider using turkey bacon or chicken ham to switch things up!

With this list ready, you're well-equipped to create a delicious meal everyone will love! For a deeper dive into the flavors, check out our article on Cooking with Cowboy Butter. Happy cooking!

Preparing Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Cooking can often feel intimidating, especially when you're trying something new. But don't worry — Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is both easy and fun to make! Follow this step-by-step guide, and you'll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.

Cook the linguine

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This is a crucial step because the salt helps flavor the pasta as it cooks. Once boiling, add 8 ounces of linguine according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes for al dente perfection. Make sure to give it a stir occasionally to prevent sticking. After it's cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Pro tip: Reserve a little pasta water, as it can help loosen the sauce later!

Sauté the chicken

Next, let’s move to the star of the show — the chicken! Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the 1 ½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch pieces) in a single layer. Sprinkle them evenly with paprika, garlic salt, kosher salt, and pepper.

Let the chicken cook for about 3-4 minutes without moving it — this will allow a beautiful golden crust to form. After that, nestle in 2 tablespoons of cowboy butter (check out this cowboy butter recipe for a homemade version) and flip the chicken. Cook until the pieces are golden brown and reach the right internal temperature of 165°F, which should take another 3-4 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm.

Create the sauce

With the chicken out of the pan, reduce the heat to low and bring back the flavor. Add the remaining cowboy butter, ¾ cup of heavy cream, garlic salt, and crushed red pepper flakes. Use a spatula to scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan — those add incredible flavor! Stir until the butter has melted and you've formed a creamy sauce.

Combine chicken and linguine

Now for the fun part! Toss the cooked linguine and chicken back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Don't forget to add a splash of lemon juice for a refreshing zing. As you toss everything together, feel free to add a bit of reserved pasta water if you need to thin out the sauce to your liking. This combination will tantalize your taste buds.

Serve and garnish

Finally, it’s time to serve your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. Plate it up and top it off with lemon slices and a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. This dish not only tastes divine, but it also looks impressive! Enjoy your meal, knowing that you’ve created something delightful that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend indulgence.

Variations on Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Spicy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

For those who crave a kick, Spicy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is your new go-to dish! Simply add one or two additional teaspoons of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a delightful heat. You might also mix in some diced jalapeños during the cooking process for an extra punch that will make your taste buds dance. It's a fantastic way to crank up the flavor while keeping the essence of this comforting bowl.

Veggie-packed Cowboy Butter Linguine

Want to sneak in some greens? Try a Veggie-packed Cowboy Butter Linguine! Incorporate seasonal veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini into the sauté with the chicken. Not only do they add vibrant colors and textures, but they're also a great way to boost the nutritional value of the dish. You could even toss in some cherry tomatoes right before serving for a burst of freshness. For more healthy ingredient ideas, check out this guide on Healthy Cooking Tips.

Whichever variation you choose, you're in for a satisfying treat!

Cooking tips and notes for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Tips for perfectly cooked chicken

To achieve succulent chicken in your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, ensure that your chicken is cut into evenly sized 1-inch pieces. This will help them cook uniformly. When browning, avoid overcrowding the pan—cook in batches if necessary to get that coveted golden crust. Trust your meat thermometer; the chicken is perfectly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Notes on sauce consistency

For a rich and creamy sauce, slowly incorporate the heavy cream after adding the cowboy butter. If your sauce seems too thick, add a splash of pasta cooking water to loosen it up. This not only adjusts the texture but also helps the sauce cling to the linguine better. Remember, the goal is a luscious, clingy sauce that makes every bite irresistible!

Serving suggestions for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Pairing with a fresh salad

To elevate your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, consider pairing it with a crisp, fresh salad. A simple arugula or mixed green salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette will add a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy sauce. You can also toss in some avocado for healthy fats and creaminess.

Best sides to complement the dish

When it comes to sides, garlic bread is an excellent choice to soak up any leftover sauce. Alternatively, roasted veggies like asparagus or broccoli can bring a delightful crunch and a healthful touch to your meal. Not only do these sides enhance the overall dining experience, but they also keep the meal balanced and satisfying. Want to make it even more special? Try serving it with a side of buttery corn on the cob for that ultimate comfort food vibe!

Time breakdown for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Preparation time

Getting ready to make the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine takes about 10-15 minutes. This includes chopping your chicken and gathering all the ingredients. Having everything prepped beforehand makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable!

Cooking time

The actual cooking time is approximately 15-20 minutes. This gives you just enough time to sauté the chicken, create the creamy sauce, and toss everything together for a delicious meal.

Total time

In total, you’ll spend around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weekday dinner when you want something quick yet flavorful! Opt for a nice green salad on the side to complement this delightful pasta dish.

For more pasta inspirations, check out our other favorite recipes here and enjoy a well-balanced meal each time!

Nutritional Facts for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

When it comes to Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, understanding its nutritional profile can help you enjoy this dish mindfully. Here’s a quick glance:

Calories

Per serving, this delightful dish contains approximately 761 calories.

Protein

You’ll be pleased to know it packs in about 44 grams of protein, making it a fulfilling choice for dinner or a satisfying post-workout meal.

Carbohydrates

With approximately 62 grams of carbohydrates, the linguine offers a good balance of energy, perfect for keeping you fueled throughout your day.

For more details on how you can tweak ingredients for different dietary needs, check out this nutrition guide for some expert insights!

FAQs about Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While this recipe features linguine, you can easily swap it for any pasta shape you prefer. Fettuccine, penne, or even spaghetti would work wonderfully in this creamy, buttery sauce. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different pasta shapes may require varying amounts of time to cook.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you're looking to lighten things up or avoid heavy cream altogether, there are some great alternatives. Full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream can provide a similar richness. If you're not dairy-free, half-and-half or evaporated milk can also be good choices, but be aware they may alter the sauce's texture slightly.

How do I store leftovers?
To keep your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the stovetop on low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to help revive the creamy sauce. Enjoy your delicious meal again!

Conclusion on Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a delightful fusion of flavors that will impress your friends and family. Quick to prepare and bursting with rich, buttery goodness, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner! Enjoy this simple yet satisfying dish any day of the week.