There is nothing quite like the rich, savory flavors of the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe to bring comfort and a touch of indulgence to your dinner table. This dish combines perfectly cooked linguine with tender chicken breasts bathed in luscious cowboy butter, a flavor-packed butter that adds incredible depth. Topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, this recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser that manages to be both simple and impressive—a perfect weeknight dinner or a special meal to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing an essential role in creating layers of flavor, texture, and color that elevate the dish. From the al dente linguine to the rich cowboy butter, every component is thoughtfully chosen.
- 8 oz linguine: The ideal pasta choice for holding onto the rich sauce and tender chicken slices perfectly.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Lean and juicy, these form the hearty protein base for the dish.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasoning that brings out the best in the chicken and pasta.
- 1/2 cup Cowboy Butter: The star ingredient—this butter is infused with bold, savory flavors that make this recipe unforgettable.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, umami kick that balances the richness of the butter.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Provides a fresh, vibrant contrast and a pop of color.
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe
Step 1: Cook the linguine
Start by cooking the linguine according to the package instructions until perfectly al dente. Drain it well and set it aside to keep warm. This sets the stage for a velvety base that soaks up all the delicious cowboy butter sauce coming up next.
Step 2: Prepare the chicken breasts
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor. Then heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 6 to 7 minutes per side. You’re aiming for juicy, fully cooked chicken that remains tender and flavorful without drying out.
Step 3: Slice the chicken
Once cooked, transfer the chicken breasts to a cutting board and slice them into strips. Slicing makes it easy to combine with the pasta and ensures each bite carries that delightful chicken goodness throughout the dish.
Step 4: Combine linguine, chicken, and cowboy butter
Return the skillet to medium heat and melt the Cowboy Butter in it. Next, toss in the cooked linguine and the sliced chicken strips, stirring to coat everything evenly in that decadent butter. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and gently toss again until every strand of pasta glistens with flavor.
Step 5: Finish and serve
Serve the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe immediately while hot, garnished generously with freshly chopped parsley. The parsley adds a refreshing hint of brightness that perfectly balances the dish’s richness.
How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs are the secret to making any pasta dish look and taste like a dream. With this recipe, lavish your plate with chopped parsley for a lovely green touch and fresh fragrance. A finish of extra grated Parmesan is a great idea, too, for diners who want a cheesier bite.
Side Dishes
This dish holds its own wonderfully, but pairing it with crisp, light side dishes can make for an even more satisfying meal. Consider a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness or roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini for added color and nutrients.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the linguine in beautiful shallow bowls and drizzle a bit more cowboy butter on top right at the table for a glossy finish. Nestle the chicken slices artistically over the pasta, and add edible flowers or microgreens for an elegant twist that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe is a delight the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and it will keep fresh for up to three days. Separating the chicken from the pasta before storing can help maintain the best texture.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is possible but not ideal, as pasta can become mushy after thawing. If you choose to freeze, place the cooled linguine and chicken in a freezer-safe container and consume within one month for best flavor. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Avoid high heat to prevent drying out the chicken and pasta. Microwaving works as well but stirring halfway through ensures even warming.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe?
Absolutely! While linguine is traditional here, other long pasta shapes like fettuccine or spaghetti would work beautifully to capture the sauce and combine with the chicken.
What exactly is Cowboy Butter?
Cowboy Butter is a flavorful compound butter usually made with garlic, herbs, and spices. It adds a bold, rich taste to dishes, making it the perfect complement to simple chicken and pasta.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
You can easily substitute the linguine for gluten-free pasta varieties available in most stores. Just be sure to cook according to the package directions since cooking times vary.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can cook and slice the chicken earlier in the day and even prepare the linguine ahead of time. Just keep everything refrigerated and combine with the cowboy butter when ready to serve.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms or roasted cauliflower and keep the cowboy butter for that unbeatable richness.
Final Thoughts
If you are searching for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s straightforward to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Once you give it a go, this dish is bound to become a treasured favorite in your cooking rotation.
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Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a quick and delicious dish featuring tender pan-seared chicken breasts served over perfectly cooked linguine, all tossed in a rich and flavorful Cowboy Butter sauce with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley garnish.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz linguine
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce & Garnish
- 1/2 cup Cowboy Butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the linguine: Prepare the linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to keep warm.
- Season and cook the chicken: Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the meat is no longer pink in the center.
- Slice the chicken: Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing them into strips to preserve juiciness.
- Melt the Cowboy Butter and combine: In the same skillet, melt the Cowboy Butter over medium heat. Add the cooked linguine, sliced chicken strips, and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss gently to combine all ingredients and heat through, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors of the butter sauce.
- Serve and garnish: Plate the linguine and chicken mixture while hot and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for richer flavor.
- Cowboy Butter is a savory herb and garlic butter; you can prepare your own or buy it pre-made.
- Allow the chicken to rest before slicing to keep juices locked in.
- This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
