Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine: A Flavorful 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 traditional boundaries are blurred to create something truly special.

People adore Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine for its incredible taste and texture. The creamy sauce clings to the pasta, creating a satisfying mouthfeel that is both indulgent 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 explore this delicious recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household!

Ingredients:

• 8 oz linguine pasta
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Preparing the Pasta

First things first, let’s get that linguine cooking! Here’s how I do it:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. I usually add about a tablespoon of salt to the water; it helps flavor the pasta.
2. Once the water is boiling, add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. When the pasta is done, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the linguine in a colander. I like to give it a quick rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and set it aside.

Cooking the Chicken

Now, let’s move on to the chicken. This is where the flavor really starts to build!

1. 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.
2. While the oil is heating, season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly with the spices.
3. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to do this in batches. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. I like to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C).
4. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Cover it with foil to keep it warm.

Making the Cowboy Butter Sauce

Now, let’s whip up that delicious cowboy butter sauce that will bring everything together!

1. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the softened butter. Let it melt, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
2. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it can turn bitter quickly!
3. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Mix everything together until well combined. The sauce should be creamy and rich.
4. If you want to add a little more flavor, you can toss in the cherry tomatoes at this point. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.

Combining Everything

Now that we have our chicken and sauce ready, it’s time to bring everything together!

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the cowboy butter sauce. Stir to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce.
2. Add the drained linguine to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the pasta seems a bit dry, add some of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. I usually add about 1/4 cup to start.
3. Once everything is

Conclusion:

In summary, this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinner game. The combination of tender chicken, rich buttery sauce, and perfectly cooked linguine creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also bursting with flavor. The unique blend of spices and the hint of smokiness truly sets this recipe apart, making it a standout choice for family gatherings or a cozy night in. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this delightful dish with a fresh garden salad or some crusty garlic bread to soak up that delicious 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. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine a try! I promise you won’t be disappointed. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation! Let’s spread the love for this incredible dish together. Happy cooking!

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