Description
This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine brings bold, zesty flavor to your plate with juicy chicken tossed in a buttery garlic herb sauce, all swirled into creamy linguine. It’s a spicy, savory twist on classic comfort food—perfect for weeknight dinners or date night indulgence.
Ingredients
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup heavy cream (optional for added richness)
Instructions
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook linguine until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Sear the chicken: Season chicken strips with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
Make cowboy butter: In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
Combine everything: Return chicken to the skillet. Add cooked linguine, reserved pasta water (as needed for consistency), Parmesan, and cream if using. Toss until the pasta is well coated and creamy.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- Add baby spinach or sautéed mushrooms for extra texture and veggies.
- You can swap linguine for fettuccine or penne if preferred.
- Adjust the spice level by reducing or increasing the red pepper flakes and cayenne.
- The heavy cream is optional but adds a velvety finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stove Top
- Cuisine: American