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Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine


  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Can be gluten free if gluten-free pasta is used

Description

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a creamy, savory pasta dish featuring tender chicken breast in a rich buttery sauce with garlic, heavy cream, smoked paprika, and Parmesan cheese. This quick and easy recipe balances bold flavors with comforting textures, making it perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

Dairy & Fats

  • 4 tbsp butter, divided
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Produce & Herbs

  • 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Pasta & Seasonings

  • 12 oz linguine pasta
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  2. Cook the Linguine: While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well, reserving a small amount of pasta water for later use.
  3. Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes creamy. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  4. Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it thoroughly in the buttery sauce. Add the drained linguine and gently mix all components together so that the sauce evenly cloaks each strand. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the consistency.
  5. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the pasta and give it a final gentle toss. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use Quality Butter: Real butter enhances the authenticity and richness of the sauce.
  • Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook the chicken just until it’s no longer pink inside to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Reserve Pasta Water: Incorporate starchy pasta water if needed to help the sauce cling better to the linguine.
  • Fresh Parmesan Matters: Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly and contributes superior flavor.
  • Season Gradually: Taste and adjust salt and pepper throughout cooking to balance flavors.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 550 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Fat: 35 g
  • Saturated Fat: 20 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 130 mg

Keywords: cowboy butter chicken linguine, creamy chicken pasta, buttery chicken linguine, quick chicken pasta dinner, family-friendly pasta recipe