This Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a fun twist on pasta with a zesty sauce packed with flavor! It features tender chicken, buttery sauce, and hints of garlic.
You’ll love how quickly it comes together; it’s perfect for busy weeknights! I always enjoy extra sauce with my pasta—because who doesn’t love a bit more goodness on their noodles? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Linguine Pasta: Linguine is great for this dish, but you can also use fettuccine, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta if you prefer a different texture. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well, but thighs are juicier and can be used instead. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using sautéed mushrooms or tofu for a similar texture.
Unsalted Butter: If you’re watching your sodium intake, using unsalted butter gives you more control over the overall saltiness. Alternatively, you can use olive oil for a lighter option.
Heavy Cream: For a healthier twist, consider using half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version. While it won’t be exactly the same, it’ll still be creamy!
How Do I Make My Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the chicken properly is important to get it tender and flavorful. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps to sear the meat and lock in flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook the chicken in batches. This ensures even cooking.
- Cook the chicken until golden brown on the outside and no longer pink on the inside (about 6-7 minutes). A meat thermometer can help; it should read 165°F (74°C).
Following these tips will give you juicy chicken in your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine!
Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225g) linguine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a mild kick)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine recipe takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and cooking the pasta, and roughly 20 minutes making the sauce and combining everything. It’s a quick and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips to the skillet. Season them with a pinch of salt, pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder (if you want a bit of heat), cumin, and onion powder. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is nicely browned and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Let it melt, then add the minced garlic. Cook it for about 1 minute until it smells amazing! Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything together. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it gets a little thicker.
4. Combine Everything:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until it’s melted and smooth. Taste your sauce and add more salt or pepper if you like. Next, bring back the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the creamy sauce until well coated.
5. Mix With Linguine:
Finally, add the cooked linguine to the skillet. Gently toss everything together to make sure the pasta is well coated with that delicious sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine right away, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you want. Dig in and enjoy this tasty meal!
Enjoy your flavorful Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine!
FAQ for Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Can I Use Another Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While linguine is a great choice, feel free to substitute it with fettuccine, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for the best results.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but note that the sauce will be thinner. For a dairy-free version, full-fat coconut milk works beautifully and adds a unique flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can This Recipe Be Made in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. To do this, cook the chicken and sauce but keep them separate from the pasta until you’re ready to serve. Just reheat and combine them with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to eat!
