Description
This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a creamy, flavorful pasta dish that blends tender chicken, garlic, and a rich butter sauce. It’s a comforting and indulgent meal perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend feasts.
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
8 oz linguine pasta
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the linguine according to package instructions. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add chicken and season with paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt remaining butter. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Add chicken back to the skillet, then toss in the cooked linguine. Stir to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
For a lighter version, use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream.
Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
Swap chicken for shrimp or plant-based proteins.
Skip or reduce cayenne pepper for a milder version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta, Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 550 kcal
