This Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a creamy and buttery pasta dish that’s packed with flavor. Tender chicken, fresh herbs, and garlic make it simply delightful!
I love how quick this meal comes together—perfect for busy weeknights! Just cook the chicken, toss it with pasta, and enjoy a hearty plate that feels special. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Linguine Pasta: This dish typically uses linguine, but feel free to swap it for spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for a quick cook, but thighs would work great too if you prefer darker meat. You could also use shrimp for a seafood twist!
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the salt in the recipe. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute with olive oil or ghee; they’ll still give great flavor.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream. Keep in mind that consistency may vary a bit.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated delivers the best flavor, but pre-grated works in a pinch. Nutritional yeast is a nice dairy-free substitute if you prefer that!
How Do I Make Creamy Sauce Without Clumps?
A smooth sauce is key to this dish. The trick is to manage the heat and timing of adding ingredients. Start by melting your butter over medium heat—this helps prevent burning.
- Always add garlic after the butter is melted to avoid burning it.
- When adding cream and chicken broth, make sure your pan isn’t too hot; a gentle simmer works best.
- Stir in the cheese gradually, allowing it to melt fully before adding more. This prevents clumping.
- If the sauce gets too thick, a splash of pasta water can help loosen it.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll achieve a creamy, clump-free sauce that coats your linguine perfectly! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: red pepper flakes for extra heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25 minutes from start to finish, including prep time and cooking. It’s a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for a busy evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Cook the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once it’s melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Combine the Cheese:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir until it’s melted and smooth. Taste your sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Mix Everything Together:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the sauce to coat evenly. Then, add the drained linguine and gently toss everything together, making sure the pasta is well coated with the creamy cowboy butter sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley and, if you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top. Enjoy!
This dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy your rich and comforting Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine!
FAQ for Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While linguine is great, you can substitute it with spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose to ensure it cooks to al dente perfection.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make it dairy-free, use a plant-based cream alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream. For cheese, consider nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy, or a dairy-free Parmesan substitute if available.
What Should I Do with Leftover Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce’s consistency.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Sauté them alongside the garlic for added flavor and nutrition before pouring in the broth and cream.
