This Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a fun and creamy dish that pairs juicy chicken with tasty noodles. It’s finished off with a buttery sauce that’s full of flavor!
Trust me, the buttery goodness will have you coming back for seconds. I keep twirling my fork, claiming it’s to get more sauce—okay, I just love it that much! 😂
I love how simple this meal is. Just cook the chicken, toss in the noodles, and mix it all together. Dinner is done in a flash, and everyone will want to help clean up the plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Linguine Pasta: This recipe uses linguine for its perfect shape to hold the creamy sauce. If you don’t have linguine, any other long pasta like fettuccine or spaghetti works well too!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to cook and great in this dish. You can replace them with chicken thighs for more flavor or use cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Unsalted Butter: This gives the dish its signature richness. If you want a lighter option, you can use olive oil instead, but you’ll miss that creamy buttery taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic creates a lovely aroma and flavor. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch (1/4 teaspoon per clove) but always go for fresh if possible.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce creamy and rich. If you want a lighter alternative, you could use half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be as thick. Almond or coconut cream are dairy-free options!
How Do You Achieve the Best Flavor in the Sauce?
To make the sauce flavorful, it’s essential to follow a few simple steps:
- Start by cooking the chicken with spices. Don’t rush this step; browning adds great flavor.
- Once you remove the chicken, make sure you scrape the pan while adding the broth. Those browned bits are packed with taste!
- Let the garlic cook until fragrant before adding liquids. This brings out its flavor without burning.
- Simmer the sauce until it thickens a bit. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the creaminess.
By following these tips, you’ll create a rich, flavorful sauce that clings perfectly to your pasta!
Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (also known as “cowboy butter”)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and another 15 minutes for cooking everything together. Quick and delicious, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Linguine:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you cook the chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet and season them with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper if you’re using it. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter. Allow it to melt completely. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until it’s fragrant but not browned. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, making sure to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for extra flavor.
4. Add Cream and Combine:
Stir in the heavy cream and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens. Bring back the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing it into the sauce so it’s fully coated.
5. Combine with Pasta:
Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is thoroughly combined with the chicken and sauce. Heat through for a minute or two.
6. Season and Serve:
Finally, taste your pasta and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed. Serve your Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Enjoy your delicious, creamy Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine!
FAQ for Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat linguine will add extra fiber, while gluten-free pasta is a great alternative if you have dietary restrictions. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package, as cooking times may vary.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cornstarch. A dairy-free alternative like coconut cream will also work well but may change the flavor profile slightly!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the garlic before adding the broth for an extra touch!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
