Name: Irresistibly Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in 30 Minutes Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 12 ounces linguine pasta; 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 (divided); 1/2 cup chicken broth or reserved pasta water; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

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Introduction

This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a creamy, flavorful pasta dish ready in just 30 minutes. Tender chicken combines with a zesty butter sauce and parmesan for an irresistible weeknight meal that everyone will love.

The image shows a bowl of creamy pasta served in a white bowl. The dish has three main layers: the bottom layer is spaghetti coated in a smooth, creamy sauce that is pale yellow; the middle layer consists of chunks of grilled chicken with browned, slightly crispy edges scattered evenly on top; the top layer is sprinkled with fresh green herbs, adding a pop of color. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

Step 1: Cook the linguine in boiling salted water according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Heat 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. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, melt butter. Add minced garlic, paprika, and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
Step 4: Stir in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth or reserved pasta water. Scrape up any browned bits on the pan bottom while gently simmering.
Step 5: Pour in heavy cream and half the parsley. Stir and cook for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 6: Return the chicken to the pan, add cooked linguine and parmesan cheese. Toss to coat evenly, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired sauce consistency.
Step 7: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with remaining parsley and extra parmesan. Serve immediately for best flavor.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Swap chicken breasts for thighs for juicier meat and richer flavor.
Use gluten-free or whole wheat linguine to suit dietary preferences.
Fresh herbs like basil or chives can be added along with parsley for added brightness.
Reserve pasta water to help loosen the sauce and help it cling to the pasta perfectly.

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 chicken broth or cream to restore sauce creaminess.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with creamy pasta topped with grilled chicken pieces. The pasta is golden yellow and coated in a thick cream sauce with a smooth, slightly glossy texture. The grilled chicken pieces are light brown with some darker char marks and look tender, scattered over the pasta. Small green herb leaves are sprinkled on top as garnish. The bowl 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 frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and the best texture.

Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

You can substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or grilled vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly option.