This Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a tasty dish that combines juicy chicken with a creamy, buttery sauce. Add some spices and herbs to make it really flavorful!
Honestly, who doesn’t love pasta? I enjoy this dish because it feels fancy but is super simple to whip up for a weeknight dinner. Perfect for impressing guests or satisfying cravings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Linguine Pasta: This type of pasta is great for holding onto sauces. If you don’t have linguine, feel free to use spaghetti or fettuccine. They’re both good options!
Chicken Breasts: I prefer fresh chicken breasts for their tenderness. You can substitute with chicken thighs if you want more flavor, or even use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best because it gives you control over the saltiness. You can use ghee for a richer flavor, or coconut oil for a dairy-free twist.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, try using half-and-half or whole milk. For a non-dairy option, coconut cream works wonders, but it’ll add a subtle coconut flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better. If you’re in a pinch, pre-shredded cheese will work too. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free alternative for a cheesy taste.
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but with these steps, you’ll nail it every time! Start by slicing the chicken thinly to help it cook faster and evenly.
- Heat your skillet until it’s nicely prepped and warm before adding the chicken.
- Cook on medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway through. Look for a golden-brown color and no pink inside.
- Once done, always let your chicken rest out of the skillet for a couple of minutes. It keeps the juices locked in!
Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz linguine pasta
For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Olive oil, for cooking
For the Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes in preparation and another 15 minutes to cook, making a total of 30 minutes. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy a restaurant-worthy meal right at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper. This will help infuse the chicken with flavor!
3. Brown the Chicken:
Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook it for about 5-6 minutes or until it’s cooked through and lightly browned. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic, sautéing for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
5. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. Then, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce cook for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens. It should be creamy and rich!
6. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat it well in the buttery sauce. Next, add the cooked linguine and toss everything together to combine. Make sure the pasta is well-coated in the sauce. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove from heat and sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve it up and enjoy your comforting Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine!
FAQs for Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular linguine with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to follow the cooking times on the packaging, as they may vary.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like a little heat, consider adding extra cayenne pepper or including some crushed red pepper flakes to the spice mix. You can also serve it with a side of hot sauce for those who enjoy extra spice!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if it seems dry.
What Vegetables Can I Add to This Dish?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to the skillet with the chicken. They’ll add extra flavor and nutrition while making the dish more colorful!
