Go Back
+ servings
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine That's Creamy and Easy to Love

Quick and creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a delightful dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 3-4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Tender and juicy; absorbs flavors well.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Adds depth while browning chicken and prevents sticking.
  • 2 tablespoons butter Provides rich cowboy flavor.
For the Sauce
  • 4 cloves garlic Freshly minced for aromatic goodness; essential in the sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard Adds subtle tanginess.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Introduces a smoky flavor and color.
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes For heat; adjust to spice preference.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice Brightens and balances the creaminess.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest Brightens and balances the creaminess.
  • 1 cup chicken broth Helps create a luscious sauce; using pasta water improves consistency.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Key for creaminess.
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese Adds umami flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Essential seasoning.
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper Essential seasoning.
For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces linguine pasta A perfect base that holds the creamy sauce.
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley Chopped for herbaceous notes; great as garnish.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Pot for boiling pasta

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until bubbling. Add 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and fully cooked (165°F internal temperature). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest while you prepare the sauce.
  2. In the same skillet, add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir constantly to prevent the garlic from burning.
  3. Stir in 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and optional red pepper flakes to taste. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the spices to bloom and combine with the garlic.
  4. Add the juice and zest of one lemon, 1 cup of chicken broth, and 1 cup of heavy cream to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, and allow it to thicken for about 3-5 minutes.
  5. While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 12 ounces of linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
  6. Add the drained linguine directly into the skillet with your creamy sauce. Gently toss to combine, ensuring each strand of pasta is well coated.
  7. Finally, slice the rested chicken breasts and add them back into the skillet, gently mixing to reheat. Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 34gFat: 36gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 180mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This recipe is customizable; feel free to swap proteins or adjust spices to personal preference. Can be made gluten-free and dairy-free.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!