Indulge in the rich and flavorful Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, a dish that combines the best of Italian and Tex-Mex cuisines. This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- The fusion of creamy butter sauce with spicy smoked paprika and red pepper flakes creates a unique and unforgettable flavor profile.
- With minimal prep time, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in no time.
- This dish is great for meal prep as the flavors develop even more when reheated the next day.
Ingredient Notes:
- Linguine: The base of this dish, you can swap with any pasta of your choice.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Provide a lean protein source for the dish.
- Olive oil and butter: Used for sautéing the chicken and creating a rich sauce.
- Garlic, minced: Adds a depth of flavor to the dish.
- Smoked paprika and red pepper flakes: Bring a smoky and spicy kick to the sauce.
- Dijon mustard and lemon juice: Add tanginess and brightness to balance the richness of the dish.
- Chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese: Create a creamy and decadent sauce.
- Salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley: Seasonings and garnish to enhance the overall taste.
Step-By-Step Instructions:
- Cook linguine according to package instructions.
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sear chicken until cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic, red pepper flakes, and Dijon mustard.
- Stir in lemon juice, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Simmer until slightly thickened.
- Add Parmesan cheese and cooked linguine to the sauce, tossing to coat.
- Slice chicken and serve over linguine, garnished with chopped parsley.
Helpful Tips:
- For extra heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- To make it vegetarian, substitute the chicken with tofu or mushrooms.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a more intense flavor.
- Allow the sauce to simmer gently to avoid curdling the cream.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine with a side salad and a glass of white wine for a complete meal experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips:
To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to the pasta before microwaving to keep it from drying out. Stir well before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can easily substitute chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat. - Is there a non-dairy alternative to heavy cream?
Coconut cream can be used as a dairy-free option for a creamy texture. - Can I freeze this dish?
While it is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the sauce separately for up to 3 months. - How can I make this dish spicier?
Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or add in some chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
Conclusion:
Treat yourself to the indulgent flavors of Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine for a satisfying meal that will impress your taste buds. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments below!
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Description
Indulge in a creamy and flavorful pasta dish with Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. Tender chicken cooked in a rich buttery sauce with a hint of spice, served over linguine and garnished with fresh parsley.
- Cook Linguine: Boil linguine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper. In a skillet, cook chicken until browned and fully cooked. Remove and slice.
- Make Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and olive oil. Add garlic, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Stir in mustard, lemon juice, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Simmer until slightly thickened.
- Combine: Add cooked linguine, sliced chicken, and Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of red pepper flakes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg