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Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine C (Bold, Buttery & Ready in 30 Minutes)

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine C (Bold, Buttery & Ready in 30 Minutes)
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Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a rich, comforting pasta dish made with juicy pan-seared chicken and a bold, buttery garlic sauce packed with herbs and spices. Inspired by classic cowboy butter, this recipe delivers big flavor in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or an easy family meal that still feels special.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless

  • 8 oz linguine pasta

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, divided

  • 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 black pepper, to taste

  • 1 cup chicken broth

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

  • Season: Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).

  • Cook: Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked (165°F / 74°C). Remove from skillet and set aside.

2. Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

  • Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente.

  • Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.

3. Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce

  • In the same skillet, melt the remaining 6 tablespoons butter over medium heat.

  • Add garlic, parsley, and thyme. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

  • Stir in chicken broth and lemon juice. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to let flavors meld.

  • Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra lemon juice if needed.

4. Combine

  • Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips.

  • Add linguine to the skillet and toss with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until creamy.

  • Gently fold in the sliced chicken.

5. Serve

  • Divide pasta among plates.

  • Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and extra herbs if desired.

  • Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the chicken: Remove it as soon as it reaches temperature to keep it juicy.

  • Use fresh herbs: They give the cowboy butter sauce its signature flavor.

  • Adjust the spice: Skip red pepper flakes for mild heat or add more for a spicy kick.

  • Make it creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or extra butter if you want a richer sauce.

  • Pasta swap: Fettuccine or spaghetti work well if you don’t have linguine.

Find it online: https://biteseason.com/cowboy-butter-chicken-linguine-c-bold-buttery-ready-in-30-minutes/