Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine: A Zesty Pasta Recipe 🌟🍝🔥
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a quick, flavorful, and filling pasta dish, look no further than the Cowboy Butter Pasta. This chicken linguine recipe combines tender chicken, creamy butter sauce, and zesty flavors to create a perfect meal for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Whether you’re craving an easy cowboy chicken recipe or delicious butter chicken noodles, this recipe delivers satisfying taste with minimal effort. Let’s explore how you can make this delightful, hearty dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
2. Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 8 oz (225 g) linguine or any pasta of your choice
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk for a lighter version
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil for cooking
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Preparation of Chicken and Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine until al dente according to package instructions, then drain and set aside. Meanwhile, season the sliced chicken breasts with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat, then cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove cooked chicken and set aside.
Making the Zesty Cowboy Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, if desired. Pour in the heavy cream or milk, stirring constantly to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes until it begins to thicken. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Combining the Chicken, Pasta, and Cowboy Butter Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the creamy butter sauce. Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined and heated through. For enhanced flavor, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
If you have leftovers, transfer the dish to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. The dish’s creamy texture may soften, but it will still taste delicious and satisfy your craving for butter chicken noodles the next day. For more tips on storing leftover pasta dishes, check out our dinner tips section.
5. Serving Suggestions for Your Cowboy Butter Pasta
This chicken linguine recipe pairs wonderfully with a light green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or crisp bacon bits. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, zesty flavors of your homemade Cowboy Butter Pasta. Want to elevate the experience? Explore some great side dishes or add a splash of noodles inspired accompaniments.
6. Why You Should Try This Easy Cowboy Chicken Recipe
This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves comforting pasta dishes with a spicy twist. It’s straightforward to prepare, requiring common ingredients you likely already have in your pantry or fridge. The combo of tender chicken, creamy butter sauce, and zesty seasonings creates a dish that’s both satisfying and memorable. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this butter chicken noodles recipe offers a delightful culinary experience with minimal effort. For more quick dinner ideas, visit our dinner collection.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best type of pasta for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?
While linguine works perfectly, you can also use penne, fettuccine, or even spaghetti for this cowboy butter pasta recipe depending on your preference or what you have available.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components in advance and combine them when ready to serve. Keep the cooked chicken and pasta separate, then reheat with the sauce for the best texture and flavor. For more easy meal prep ideas, see our easy tag articles.
Is there a lighter version of this creamy cowboy butter chicken linguine?
Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with milk or a plant-based alternative, and use less butter or a lighter cooking oil to reduce calories without sacrificing flavor.
8. Conclusion
The Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine recipe is an indulgent yet easy-to-make dish that combines spicy, creamy, and savory flavors. Perfect for a quick dinner or a satisfying meal after a busy day, this chicken linguine recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its rich sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful pasta, it’s a dish that brings comfort and excitement to the table. For additional inspiration, check out some of our delightful pasta recipes like zesty shrimp avocado bowls. Give this butter chicken noodles recipe a try and enjoy a hearty, delicious meal that hits all the right notes!
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Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine: A Zesty Pasta Recipe
Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a flavorful and zesty pasta dish combining tender chicken, rich butter sauce, and bold seasonings. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this easy-to-make recipe delivers satisfying and comforting flavors with a spicy kick. Enjoy a hearty meal of creamy butter chicken linguine that’s both quick and memorable.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 8 oz (225 g) linguine or preferred pasta
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine until al dente, then drain and set aside. Season the sliced chicken breasts with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat, then cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. If desired, stir in crushed red pepper flakes for heat. Pour in heavy cream or milk, stirring to combine. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Return cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat with sauce. Add cooked linguine and toss everything together until heated through. Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with milk or plant-based milk and use less butter.
- Can be prepared ahead; keep components separate and reheat with sauce.
- Adding sautéed mushrooms or crispy bacon enhances flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Dairy
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 620 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 21g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
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