If you’re craving a dish that beautifully blends smoky, creamy, and savory flavors all in one satisfying bowl, this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe is going to steal your heart and your taste buds. Imagine tender strips of seasoned chicken, luscious butter and garlic sauce, the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, and that irresistible cheesy finish—all tossed with perfectly cooked linguine. It’s one of those meals that feels both comforting and a touch indulgent, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal shared with loved ones.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays an essential role in creating an unforgettable dish. From herbs and spices that pack a punch to creamy, rich elements that bring everything together, these ingredients are the key to a harmonious balance of taste, texture, and color.
- 12 ounces linguine pasta: The perfect long pasta that holds the sauce beautifully and adds a nice bite to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to sear the chicken and add a fruity depth with a light caramelization.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into strips: Tender, lean protein that soaks up the smoky spices deliciously.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: The heart of the “butter” in Cowboy Butter, ensuring a rich and silky sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic minced: Garlic brings that unmistakable aroma and flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved: They add a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to balance the richness.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: For a luxuriously creamy texture that envelops every bite.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth: Brings savory depth and helps thin the sauce just enough for coating.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: The smoky backbone that plays off the hearty chicken and spices perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: Adds a subtle heat and complexity without overpowering the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Earthy notes that round out the spice mix in a warm and comforting way.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors into perfect harmony.
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty richness and helps thicken the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: The bright, fresh finish that balances the richness and looks beautiful on top.
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the linguine according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. You want it tender but still with a little bite to stand up to the richness of the sauce. Once cooked, drain it well and set it aside so it’s ready to soak up all those beautiful flavors later.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken strips generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cumin. Then add them to the hot oil and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the chicken to brown beautifully and cook through. This step is key to building a smoky, flavorful foundation for the dish. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Create the Cowboy Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter until it’s fully liquid and fragrant. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté it briefly, about one minute, just until the aroma fills your kitchen—it’s that incredible fresh garlic smell you’ll want to savor! Then add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook them for 2 to 3 minutes so they begin to soften and release their natural sweetness.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together as the sauce begins to come together. Let this simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens just enough to coat the back of a spoon. This silky sauce is where all those bold spices come to life while the butter keeps it rich and dreamy.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the cooked chicken strips to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce so every piece is lovingly coated. Then add the drained linguine pasta and sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until the cheese melts into the sauce and the pasta is heated through. That final toss melds all the flavors in a beautiful, creamy embrace. Finish with chopped fresh parsley for a fresh and colorful touch right before serving.
How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of garnishes with this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe. Fresh chopped parsley adds a bright herbal note and vibrant pop of green that lifts the dish visually and flavor-wise. For an extra kick, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil can take it to the next level.
Side Dishes
This dish shines wonderfully alongside simple, fresh sides. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich pasta perfectly, balancing the heaviness with lightness. Roasted or grilled seasonal vegetables also make excellent partners, adding texture and variety without distracting from the star of the show.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun spin, serve the linguine in rustic cast-iron skillets right at the table—this keeps it warm and offers a cozy, inviting presentation. You could also dish it into shallow bowls and top each serving with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh herbs for a restaurant-worthy touch. If entertaining, individual portions arranged with a lemon wedge on the side adds a bright flavor contrast guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe actually tastes great as leftovers. Store any uneaten portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures that the flavors stay vibrant without the pasta losing its texture.
Freezing
If you want to freeze it, it’s best to keep the sauce and chicken separate from the pasta to avoid mushiness. Freeze everything in airtight containers for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat gently on the stovetop.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta and sauce slowly in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it seems thick. Stir frequently to maintain that creamy texture without drying out the noodles or chicken.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a bit more juiciness and flavor, which pairs beautifully with the smoky spices in this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe.
Is this dish spicy?
The heat level is mild thanks to the chili powder, but you can easily adjust by adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you prefer a spicier kick.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the linguine for your favorite gluten-free pasta, and the rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Can this recipe be doubled for a crowd?
Definitely! The ingredients and steps scale up nicely, making this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe perfect for feeding a larger group with ease.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe—it’s a feast of smoky, creamy, and fresh flavors all dancing together in one pan. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or impressing friends over the weekend, this dish never disappoints. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own new favorite!
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Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a deliciously creamy and smoky pasta dish featuring tender strips of seasoned chicken cooked in a buttery garlic sauce with cherry tomatoes, finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Perfect for a quick, satisfying weeknight meal, this recipe balances rich flavors and an easy stovetop preparation.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces linguine pasta
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
Finishing
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Linguine: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cumin. Add to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Prepare the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly in the sauce. Add the cooked linguine and Parmesan cheese, tossing everything together until well mixed and heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Notes
- For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro make excellent alternative garnishes.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
