Introduction

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a bold and creamy pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a flavorful butter sauce. This recipe offers a perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and fresh flavors, making it a quick and satisfying meal for any night of the week.

A white plate holds a serving of spaghetti, laid in a loose circular pile with a light golden color and smooth texture. On top, there is a creamy beige sauce covering the pasta unevenly, with specks of seasoning visible in the sauce. Scattered across the creamy layer are chunks of grilled chicken, browned and slightly charred, giving a textured contrast with their golden-brown and crisp outer surface. Small pieces of green herbs are sprinkled on top, adding a fresh touch of color. The photo is taken on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
8 oz (225g) linguine pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra spice)
¼ cup chopped fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter, garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Set aside for later use.
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken slices with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, add the cowboy butter sauce and let it simmer for 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until combined. Add the Parmesan cheese and mix until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Return the cooked chicken to the pan, stirring to coat it in the sauce. Add the cooked linguine, tossing everything together until fully coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen it. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and creaminess.
Adjust red pepper flakes to control the heat level to your preference.
For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies and texture.
Swap linguine for fettuccine or spaghetti if preferred.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce as needed. Avoid using a microwave for best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a serving of spaghetti pasta as the bottom layer, showing long, smooth, yellow strands that are slightly glossy. On top of the pasta lies a thick creamy sauce with a light beige color and a smooth, rich texture. Scattered across the sauce are pieces of grilled chicken, browned with a slightly crispy exterior, showing darker char marks and a tender inside. The dish is garnished with small sprinkles of fresh green herbs, adding a pop of color and freshness. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used and will add extra juiciness and flavor to the dish. Adjust cooking time if needed to ensure they are fully cooked.

Is this recipe spicy?

This dish has a mild to moderate level of spiciness due to the red pepper flakes, which you can adjust or omit entirely to suit your taste.