Irresistibly Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a delightful and hearty dish that seamlessly blends the rich flavors of butter and garlic with perfectly cooked chicken and linguine pasta. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also guarantees a delicious meal that will be a hit at your dinner table.
Why Make This Recipe
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is the perfect choice for busy weeknights or a casual gathering with friends and family. It combines elements of comfort food with a bit of gourmet flair. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a meal that feels indulgent without requiring all day in the kitchen. Whether you’re trying to impress guests, looking for a quick dinner recipe, or simply want something new to spice up your usual pasta night, this dish ticks all the boxes!
How to Make Irresistibly Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Creating this scrumptious dish is straightforward and quick. With the right ingredients and steps, you’ll have a meal ready to savor in under 30 minutes. Let’s dive into the recipe to see how you can whip up your very own Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 ounces linguine pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or reserved pasta water
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions
- Boil the linguine according to the package directions in salted water. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta, then set it aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Once done, remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic, paprika, and red pepper flakes; sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth or reserved pasta water. Gently simmer while scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Pour in the heavy cream and half of the chopped parsley. Stir gently, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until the sauce lightly thickens.
- Return the chicken to the pan, add the cooked linguine and parmesan cheese. Toss to coat evenly, adding reserved pasta water as needed for consistency.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Garnish with the remaining parsley and extra parmesan cheese before serving.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the delightful flavors!
Pro Tips for Success with Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To avoid dry chicken, cook it until just done. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water is a secret ingredient that helps to achieve the perfect sauce consistency. Add it gradually until you reach your desired thickness.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and parsley for the best flavor. Fresh herbs elevate the dish!
- Balance Your Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, skip the red pepper flakes or reduce the amount to suit your taste.
- Cheese Variations: If you want a sharper flavor, try substituting half of the parmesan with pecorino Romano cheese.
Flavor Variations for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate veggies like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
- Switch Up the Proteins: Try shrimp or grilled salmon for a seafood twist on this recipe.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different fresh herbs like basil or thyme for varied flavor profiles.
- Creamy Spin: For a lighter sauce, swap half of the heavy cream for Greek yogurt or sour cream.
- Citrus Zest: Add zest from a lime or orange for a unique citrusy flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
Serving Suggestions for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is versatile and can be served with various side dishes:
- Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery accompaniment that pairs perfectly with creamy pasta.
- Caesar Salad: A fresh and crispy salad adds a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection can add a nutritious element to your meal.
- Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of Chardonnay can complement the buttery sauce beautifully.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
If you find yourself with leftovers of this delicious dish, you’re in luck!
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to the skillet to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.
- Freezing: To freeze, divide the dish into portions and store in freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————-|————-|
| Calories | 580 |
| Protein | 34g |
| Carbs | 60g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 450mg |
FAQ About Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts for a juicier and more flavorful option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as they may take a little longer to cook through.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half. Alternatively, for a dairy-free option, use coconut milk or almond milk, keeping in mind that it will slightly alter the flavor.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the components in advance to save time. Cook the chicken, prepare the sauce, and boil the pasta. Store them separately in the fridge and combine right before serving. Finish the dish with some fresh parsley and parmesan for that freshly-made touch.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make a vegan version, replace the chicken with mushrooms or tofu and use a plant-based cream alternative in place of heavy cream. For the butter, use vegan butter, and ensure the parmesan is either omitted or substituted with nutritional yeast.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Simply switch out the linguine pasta for a gluten-free variety made from rice, quinoa, or chickpeas, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
Final Thoughts
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dining table. With its rich sauce and tender chicken, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your household. Remember to customize the ingredients according to your taste preferences, and don’t hesitate to incorporate those personal touches! Enjoy the process, share the meal with loved ones, and relish the delicious results of your culinary efforts. Happy cooking!
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Irresistibly Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and hearty dish that blends rich butter and garlic flavors with chicken and linguine pasta, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 ounces linguine pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or reserved pasta water
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil the linguine according to package directions in salted water. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, cooking for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter, then add garlic, paprika, and red pepper flakes; sauté for about 1 minute.
- Stir in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth or reserved pasta water, gently simmering and scraping browned bits from the pan.
- Pour in heavy cream and half of the chopped parsley. Stir gently, cooking for another 2 minutes until sauce lightly thickens.
- Return chicken to the pan, add cooked linguine and parmesan cheese. Toss to coat evenly, adding reserved pasta water as needed for consistency.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Garnish with remaining parsley and extra parmesan before serving.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Adjust spice levels according to preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American