Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is the perfect fusion of bold, zesty flavors and creamy indulgence. The rich, savory cowboy butter, infused with garlic, herbs, and a hint of spice, pairs beautifully with tender, juicy chicken and al dente linguine. This dish is not only satisfying but also quick and easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breast, sliced
• Linguine pasta
• Unsalted butter
• Garlic, minced
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Fresh lemon juice
• Dijon mustard
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper
• Olive oil
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions

1. Cook the linguine in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Stir in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, crushed red pepper flakes, and chopped parsley. Mix well to combine, creating the cowboy butter sauce.
5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
6. Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing everything together. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a richer, creamier sauce.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu.
• Herb Twist: Try using fresh basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute linguine with fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne.

2. Is this dish very spicy?

The level of spiciness can be adjusted by modifying the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance. Store in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

4. What can I serve with Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs well with this dish.

5. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness.

6. Is there a dairy-free option?

Use dairy-free butter and skip the Parmesan cheese to make it dairy-free.

7. How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Toss the cooked pasta with a little olive oil if not using it immediately.

8. Can I freeze this dish?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

9. What type of mustard should I use?

Dijon mustard is recommended for its tangy flavor, but you can experiment with other types.

10. How can I make the sauce thicker?

Let the sauce simmer a bit longer or add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan to thicken it.

Conclusion

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a flavorful, hearty dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. With its rich, buttery sauce and tender chicken, it’s a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Enjoy experimenting with variations to suit your taste!

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