Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine brings together the comforting heartiness of pasta with the creamy, buttery goodness that’s bound to make your taste buds dance. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. The combination of tender chicken, garlic, and a luscious sauce will quickly become a favorite at your dinner table, making it a dish worth savoring and sharing.
Reasons to try it
Why make this cowboy-inspired recipe? Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine combines comfort food and gourmet flair in an effortlessly quick meal. This dish is not just a culinary delight; it’s perfect for a variety of occasions—be it a casual weeknight dinner or an elegant family gathering. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic and just a hint of spice, is sure to please everyone at the table, including picky eaters!
"This cowboy butter chicken linguine has become a staple in my house! Quick to prepare and oh-so-delicious. Even my kids beg for seconds!" – A satisfied home cook
Preparing Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Wondering how this mouth-watering dish comes together? The secret lies in a straightforward cooking process that anyone can master. You’ll start by dicing your chicken and boiling the linguine to perfection, then sautéing everything together in a buttery, creamy sauce. It’s a symphony of flavors that meld beautifully with just a few simple steps.
What you’ll need
To create this delectable dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 4-5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
If you’re looking for substitutions, feel free to swap out linguine for another pasta shape, or use olive oil in place of butter for a lighter option.
Step-by-step instructions
To prepare this mouth-watering dish, follow these clear directions:
- Begin by dicing the chicken into bite-sized pieces and mincing the garlic cloves.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the linguine until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Remember to save a cup of the pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta is cooking, melt half of the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season it with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown, approximately 6-8 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
- Reduce the heat and stir in the remaining butter and heavy cream until you achieve a creamy consistency.
- Toss the cooked linguine into the skillet with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency. Finally, mix in the cooked chicken and chopped parsley.
Best ways to enjoy it
How can you best serve Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine? For an appealing presentation, twirl the linguine into nests on a plate and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and a dash of red pepper flakes for visual pop. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to soak up the leftover sauce. A glass of white wine could also enhance the dining experience!
Storage and reheating tips
Wondering how to store your leftovers? To ensure freshness, cool any remaining linguine to room temperature and then transfer it to an airtight container. This dish can safely be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to a month. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy texture.
Extra advice
Looking for tips to elevate your cooking? Here are a few pro tips to consider:
- Don’t skimp on the freshness of your garlic; the more fragrant, the better!
- If you like a bit more heat, consider doubling the red pepper flakes.
- For added richness, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese can take this dish to the next level.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous in the kitchen? Here are a few ways to tweak this recipe:
- Swap out linguine for zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a gluten-free option.
- Experiment with different proteins; shrimp or sliced sausage work well.
- Add seasonal vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to enhance flavor and nutrition.
Common questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine:
How long does this dish take to prepare?
This recipe typically takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and simply toss them with the pasta right before serving.How can I make it lighter?
For a lighter version, use less butter or try unsweetened coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
Now that you have everything you need to create this delightful Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, it’s time to hit the kitchen! Enjoy the cooking process and the delicious result!
PrintEasy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
A comforting and creamy pasta dish combining tender chicken and garlic in a buttery sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 4-5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and mince the garlic cloves.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the linguine until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Save a cup of the pasta water before draining.
- Melt half of the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
- Reduce heat and stir in the remaining butter and heavy cream until creamy.
- Toss the cooked linguine into the skillet with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed. Mix in the cooked chicken and chopped parsley.
Notes
For a lighter option, swap butter for olive oil and use less cream.

