Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold and Zesty Flavor: This cowboy butter sauce is a perfect combination of garlic, spices, and fresh herbs.
• Comforting and Filling: Juicy chicken combined with hearty pasta creates a satisfying meal.
• Customizable: You can adjust the spice levels or throw in vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for an interesting twist.
• Impressive Yet Simple: Perfect for impressing guests while still being easy enough for a quick weeknight dinner.

Recipe: Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Chicken:

• 12 oz linguine pasta
• 1 lb chicken thighs or breasts, cut into strips
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Cowboy Butter Sauce:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Linguine

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in your linguine pasta and cook according to the package instructions.
2. Once cooked, drain the pasta but make sure to save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later. Set the linguine aside.

Step 2: Prepare and Cook the Chicken

1. Generously season the chicken strips with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the seasoned chicken strips to the skillet and cook until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the unsalted butter.
2. Add in the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
3. Stir in the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, and parsley. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until everything is well mixed and aromatic.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring well to coat it in the flavorful sauce.
2. Add the reserved linguine to the skillet and toss everything together. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve a silky texture.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

1. Take a moment to taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or a bit more cayenne for that extra kick.
2. Serve it hot, garnished with additional chopped parsley for a fresh and vibrant touch.

Tips for the Best Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and parsley can elevate the overall flavor profile of your sauce.
• Control the Spice: Feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper according to your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider reducing or omitting it entirely.
• Don’t Skip the Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water is essential for creating a silky sauce that adheres beautifully to the noodles.
• Add Veggies: Toss in some spinach, kale, or roasted cherry tomatoes to boost nutrition and add color to the dish.
• Finish with Cheese: For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle some Parmesan cheese or add a drizzle of cream.

Why This Dish Is a Crowd-Pleaser

With a combination of succulent chicken, tender linguine, and vibrant cowboy butter sauce, this dish is truly unforgettable. The rich, zesty flavor profile caters to those who relish comforting meals with a bit of flair. It’s hearty enough to feed a hungry crowd while also chic enough to serve at a dinner party.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A1: Certainly! Options like fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne work beautifully in this dish.

Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A2: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet with a splash of water or chicken broth to help loosen the sauce.

Q3: Can I make this dish lighter?
A3: Yes! Try using half the butter and replacing it with chicken broth. Opting for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta is also a lighter alternative.

Q4: Can I make it vegetarian?
A4: Absolutely! Substitute chicken with tofu or load it up with roasted vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.

Q5: How can I add more protein?
A5: You can increase protein content by adding cooked shrimp or topping the dish with a poached egg.