why make this recipe

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor to your plate. The combination of juicy chicken, buttery garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked linguine makes this meal comforting and satisfying. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner, making it a great choice for busy families. If you’re looking for a dish that impresses yet doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, this is it!

how to make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Ingredients :

2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
8 oz linguine pasta
½ cup unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Directions :

Prepare the Chicken:
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and onion powder. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until it is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Cook the Pasta:
- In a pot of salted boiling water, cook the linguine pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Once it melts, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, stir in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
Combine the Pasta and Chicken:
- Slice the cooked chicken and add it back to the skillet along with the cooked linguine. Toss everything together in the cowboy butter sauce. Add the fresh parsley, thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well.
Serve and Garnish:
- Plate the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine and sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy your delicious meal!

how to serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

This dish is best served hot and garnished with extra parsley and Parmesan cheese. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of white wine also complements this dish beautifully.

how to store Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

To store leftovers, let the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine cool to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in a microwave or on the stovetop. If the pasta looks dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating.

tips to make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
Make sure not to overcook the garlic to avoid a burnt taste.
You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less crushed red pepper flakes.

variation (if any)

You can easily customize this recipe by swapping out the chicken for shrimp or adding vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes. This adds more color and nutrition to the dish!

FAQs

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and simply cook the pasta when you are ready to serve.

Q: Can I freeze Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?
A: While it’s possible to freeze the dish, pasta tends to become mushy when thawed. For best quality, freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the pasta.

Q: What can I serve with Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?
A: This dish pairs well with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.