Description
This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a bold, buttery, and flavor-packed pasta dish featuring juicy, seasoned chicken tossed in a rich cowboy butter sauce with garlic, lemon, Dijon mustard, and fresh herbs. It’s a spicy, zesty twist on classic pasta that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Ingredients
Units
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For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), sliced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Cowboy Butter Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp fresh chives, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz linguine (or pasta of choice)
- 1 tbsp salt (for pasta water)
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
For Garnish:
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- In a bowl, season chicken with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Stir in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, parsley, and chives.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Add the cooked linguine and chicken back to the skillet.
- Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed for a silky sauce.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and mix until combined.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh parsley, and lemon wedges.
- Serve hot and enjoy your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine!
Notes
- Make It Spicier: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Creamy Option: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream for a richer sauce.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Swap linguine for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth.