Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine: 30-Minute Delight

Name: Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb); 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 12 oz linguine pasta; ½ cup unsalted butter; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp red pepper flakes; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

By Alicia Newsom

September 13, 2025

0

13

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the mouthwatering aroma of Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine wafting through your kitchen, promising a flavor explosion that makes your taste buds do a happy dance. Picture this: tender chicken simmered in a buttery sauce, mingling with perfectly cooked linguine and an array of spices that would make even a cowboy tip his hat in approval.

Now, let me take you back to that one fateful evening when I first tried cowboy butter. It was at a backyard barbecue, and my friend, who claims to be the ultimate grill master, generously slathered it on everything from corn on the cob to grilled chicken. I was skeptical at first, but after just one bite, I knew I had discovered something special. Fast forward to today, and I’ve turned that buttery goodness into an easy pasta dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing friends at gatherings.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This dish is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights
The flavor profile combines rich butteriness with zesty spices that will tantalize your taste buds
Visually appealing with its vibrant colors, it’s sure to impress anyone at your table
Plus, it’s versatile enough for any occasion—dress it up for a fancy dinner or keep it casual for family night

Ingredients for Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work perfectly; adjust based on how many you plan to serve.
Fresh Garlic: Use about four cloves of fresh garlic for maximum flavor; minced garlic adds depth to the sauce.
Linguine Pasta: About 12 ounces of linguine will create a hearty meal; cook according to package instructions.
Butter: You’ll need half a cup of unsalted butter; it’s essential for that cowboy butter flavor.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds brightness and color; chop some for garnish before serving.

For the Sauce:

Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the sauce’s tangy flavor; about two tablespoons will do.
Smoked Paprika: This spice adds a smoky depth; about one teaspoon gives just the right kick.
Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy heat, add half a teaspoon or more depending on your spice tolerance.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

How to Make Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients and chopping the garlic and parsley. Set aside while you get ready for cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil over high heat. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt two tablespoons of butter. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them to the skillet. Cook for about six minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and let rest.

Step 4: Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce

In the same skillet (don’t clean it—flavor!), lower the heat slightly and add the remaining butter along with minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Stir until fragrant—about two minutes—and scrape up any delicious bits stuck on the bottom.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Slice rested chicken into strips or cubes and return it to the skillet along with drained linguine. Toss everything together until well-coated in that luscious cowboy butter sauce.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Plate your Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine and sprinkle chopped parsley over each serving for freshness. Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra sauce if desired for the perfect finishing touch.

And there you have it! A dish so delightful that even cowboys would trade their boots just for another bite! Enjoy!

You Must Know

This Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine brings together rich flavors and simple ingredients, making it a crowd-pleaser
It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights or impressing guests at dinner parties
Plus, you can throw in extra veggies for added nutrition and color

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing your chicken to lock in flavors, then cook the linguine while you whip up that buttery sauce. Multitasking is key here; your meal will be ready faster than you can say “Yeehaw!”

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or even tofu if you’re feeling adventurous! You can also play around with seasonings like smoked paprika or add fresh herbs for a personalized twist on this Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth to keep everything moist and delicious, ensuring it tastes just as good as when it was freshly made.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer; aim for 165°F
Don’t overcook the pasta—al dente is your friend here!
Lastly, let the sauce simmer gently to enhance those rich flavors without burning

Sometimes I recall the time my friends tried to guess what “cowboy butter” actually was—let’s just say their guesses were more entertaining than accurate. This dish turned out to be a hit, sparking laughter and seconds all around!

FAQs :

What is Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?

Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a delicious pasta dish that combines tender chicken, rich butter, and zesty seasonings. This recipe brings together the flavors of cowboy butter—a mix of garlic, herbs, and spices—with linguine for a hearty meal. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something quick and satisfying.

How long does it take to prepare Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?

You can prepare Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in about 30 minutes. The cooking time includes preparing the chicken, boiling the linguine, and mixing all the ingredients together. This quick preparation makes it an excellent choice for busy families or anyone needing a fast yet flavorful meal.

Can I use gluten-free pasta in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute regular linguine with gluten-free pasta to make Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Make sure to follow the package instructions for cooking times, as gluten-free pasta may require different boiling times to achieve the right texture.

What variations can I try with Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?

There are several variations you can try with Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. You can also incorporate seasonal vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. Experimenting with different herbs can also enhance the dish’s taste profile.

Conclusion for Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine :

Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine offers a delightful blend of flavors that is both simple and satisfying. With its creamy sauce and perfectly cooked chicken, this recipe stands out as a family favorite. In just 30 minutes, you can create a delicious meal that everyone will love. Remember to explore variations by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to personalize this dish further. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this easy-to-make pasta!

Print