This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a bold and indulgent dish that combines the richness of creamy butter sauce with the smoky, tangy flavors of cowboy-style seasoning. The tender, juicy chicken infused with garlic, lemon, and herbs pairs perfectly with velvety linguine, creating a rustic yet gourmet comfort meal. Whether you’re looking for a hearty dinner or a show-stopping pasta dish, this recipe delivers big flavors with a satisfying balance of spice and creaminess!
Ingredients
For the Cowboy Butter Sauce:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to spice preference)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
For the Chicken & Pasta:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cowboy Butter Sauce
- Melt Butter: In a saucepan over low heat, melt unsalted butter with olive oil to prevent burning.
- Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Incorporate Seasonings: Add lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and parsley.
- Simmer & Set Aside: Let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes, then remove from heat. Keep warm.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Season the Chicken:
- Coat sliced chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat Oil & Sear:
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil.
- Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Add Cowboy Butter:
- Pour half of the Cowboy Butter Sauce over the chicken.
- Let the flavors infuse for 2 minutes before removing chicken from heat.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
- Boil Linguine:
- In a large pot, cook linguine according to package instructions in salted water until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce:
- In the same skillet, pour in chicken broth and heavy cream.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and a pinch of red pepper flakes, simmering until thickened.
Step 4: Assemble & Serve
- Toss Pasta with Sauce:
- Add linguine into the skillet with creamy sauce.
- Toss to coat evenly.
- Add Cowboy Butter Chicken:
- Slice cooked chicken and mix with the pasta.
- Drizzle remaining Cowboy Butter Sauce over the dish.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips for the Best Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
- Double the cowboy butter for a richer, smoky flavor.
- Use fresh lemon juice to brighten the sauce.
- For extra heat, add more red pepper flakes or cayenne.
- Swap linguine for fettuccine for a thicker pasta base.
This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine packs a bold punch with smoky spices, buttery richness, and creamy indulgence! Want to explore a gourmet twist—perhaps adding sun-dried tomatoes or crispy bacon for extra depth?