Name: Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces linguine; 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch bites; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 0.5 teaspoon paprika; 0.5 teaspoon garlic salt; 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt; 0.25 teaspoon pepper; 0.25 cup cowboy butter, divided; 0.75 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon garlic salt; 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 0.5 teaspoon lemon juice; lemon slices for garnish; parsley chopped for garnish

Introduction to Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

What is Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine and Why You'll Love It?

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is an unforgettable dish that marries the flavors of tender chicken with a rich, creamy cowboy butter sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked linguine. It's a delightful, one-pan meal that’s both comforting and satisfying, making it an ideal choice for dinner any night of the week.

Imagine setting the table after a long day, your home filled with the warm aroma of garlic and paprika, as the buttery sauce coats every strand of linguine. It's simple, yet impressive enough to serve to friends during a cozy get-together, or a quick weeknight dinner for your family.

You'll love how this dish brings together everyday ingredients in a way that packs a flavorful punch. The key lies in the cowboy butter, a delicious mix of rich flavors that elevates the entire meal. Plus, it’s remarkably quick to prepare—just 25 minutes from start to finish! So, if you’re ready to wow your taste buds and satisfy your hunger, keep reading to discover the full recipe for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine.

For more delicious meal ideas, check out Serious Eats or Bon Appétit for culinary inspiration.

Ingredients for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Creating a delicious plate of Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine starts with gathering the right ingredients. Let's break down what you'll need to make this comforting meal!

Essential ingredients for a tasty dish

To whip up this scrumptious pasta dish, you'll need some crucial ingredients:

8 ounces linguine – the perfect base for our creamy sauce.
1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts – diced into bite-sized pieces for easy cooking.
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – to sear the chicken and enhance flavor.
Spices: ½ teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon garlic salt, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper – these elevate the chicken's taste.
For the sauce, gather ¼ cup cowboy butter, ¾ cup heavy cream, 1 teaspoon garlic salt, ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, and ½ teaspoon lemon juice – these elements come together for a zesty, creamy finish.

Optional ingredients for customization

Feel free to make it your own! Here are some optional additions:

Vegetables: Add some sautéed bell peppers or spinach for color and nutrition.
Herbs: Fresh basil or thyme can brighten the dish.
Extra heat: Toss in more crushed red pepper for those who crave spice.

These optional ingredients can help you tailor the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Happy cooking!

Step-by-step preparation of Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Creating Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is not just about following a recipe; it’s about enjoying the process and savoring each step. Let’s break it down step by step!

Get your ingredients ready

Before diving into cooking, it's crucial to have everything organized. Gather your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

8 ounces of linguine
1 ½ pounds of boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
Seasoning: ½ teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon garlic salt, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper
For the sauce: ¼ cup of cowboy butter, ¾ cup heavy cream, 1 teaspoon garlic salt, ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, and ½ teaspoon lemon juice
Optional: lemon slices and chopped parsley for garnishing

Having everything prepped not only saves time but also makes you feel like a pro in the kitchen!

Cook the linguine to perfection

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Do you want that linguine to have just the right bite? Let it cook until it’s al dente, following the package instructions (usually around 8-10 minutes). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. The key here is not to overcook it, as it will join the tasty cowboy butter sauce later!

Sauté the chicken with flavorful spices

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, drizzle in two tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure not to crowd the pan. Season the chicken evenly with paprika, garlic salt, kosher salt, and pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s beautifully golden brown on one side, then flip it over. You want that lovely crust on your chicken, which adds incredible flavor.

Prepare the cowboy butter sauce

Here comes the fun part! After the chicken is cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F), remove it from the skillet and keep it warm. Now, reduce the heat to low and introduce the remaining cowboy butter along with heavy cream, garlic salt, and red pepper flakes. Using a spatula, scrape up those delicious browned bits in the pan. This is where the magic happens! Stir until the butter melds into the sauce, creating a creamy, rich base.

Toss everything together and serve

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked linguine and sautéed chicken back into the skillet. Drizzle in the lemon juice, stirring well to coat everything in that divine sauce. When plating, don’t forget to garnish with fresh lemon slices and chopped parsley for that restaurant-style finish.

You’re ready to serve your delightful Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine! This dish is sure to impress your friends and family, while also making dinner feel special. Enjoy every delicious bite! For more tips on cooking pasta like a pro, check out sources like Serious Eats.

Variations on Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Spicy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

If you love a good kick, try adding chili paste or diced jalapeños to your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. These ingredients perfectly complement the rich butter sauce and bring out the flavors of the chicken. You could also increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra layer of heat.

Vegetarian Version of Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

For a delicious vegetarian twist, swap out the chicken for hearty vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Use chickpeas or tofu for added protein, and toss them in the same cowboy butter sauce for that signature flavor. This variation not only satisfies plant-based eaters but is also jam-packed with nutrients!

With these variations, you can easily tailor the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine recipe to fit your taste buds or dietary preferences. Enjoy the adventure in your kitchen!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Pro Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken

To achieve succulent chicken in your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps create a beautiful sear and lock in the juices. Cook the chicken in a single layer to allow even browning. For best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F — this keeps it tender and juicy.

Best Practices for a Creamy Sauce

For that luxuriously creamy sauce that defines your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, start with high-fat heavy cream. This will prevent the sauce from thinning out and maintain richness. Be sure to melt the butter fully before adding the cream, and stir continuously to incorporate the flavors. A splash of lemon juice at the end brightens the sauce beautifully — just don’t overdo it! For more tips on sauces, check out Serious Eats.

Serving suggestions for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Ideal sides to complement the meal

Pairing your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine with the right sides can elevate the entire dining experience. Consider serving a fresh garden salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. Alternatively, roasted vegetables, like carrots and asparagus drizzled with olive oil, can add a delightful crunch that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. If you’re looking for something heartier, buttery garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser!

Creative garnishing ideas

Garnishing can turn a good dish into a great one. For your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness. Adding lemon zest or additional lemon slices not only enhances the presentation but also brightens the flavors. For an extra touch of richness, a light drizzle of truffle oil over the top can provide a gourmet flair that your guests will surely appreciate.

By considering these simple yet effective serving suggestions, you’ll impress your friends and family with a delightful dining experience!

Time breakdown for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

When you're ready to whip up a delightful dinner with Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, it's key to know how much time you'll need. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you plan your cooking:

Preparation time

Get everything ready in just 10 minutes! This includes chopping your chicken and gathering all those delicious ingredients.

Cooking time

The magic happens in 15 minutes of cooking time. You’ll get the chicken nice and crispy while ensuring your pasta is perfectly al dente.

Total time

In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress anyone at the dinner table!

Planning your cooking time can make all the difference, and with this straightforward breakdown, you’ll be able to serve up a delicious meal without any stress. For more helpful tips and insights on cooking, check out resources like Serious Eats or Bon Appétit to elevate your culinary experience!

Nutritional Facts for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

When it comes to comfort food, Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine hits the mark with flavor and satisfaction. Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile to help you enjoy it guilt-free:

Calories per Serving

Each serving packs around 761 calories, making it a hearty, fulfilling dinner option.

Protein Content

With 43 grams of protein per serving, this dish provides a solid protein boost to keep you going throughout your busy day.

Sodium Level

Keep an eye on the sodium level, which comes in at approximately 973 mg per serving. It's best to pair this dish with fresh veggies or a salad to balance things out.

For more details on nutrition, you might find this guide on Nutrition Basics helpful. Remember, healthy cooking doesn't have to compromise on flavor!

FAQ about Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Can I substitute the linguine with another type of pasta?

Absolutely! If you're in the mood for a different texture or flavor, you can easily swap out the linguine for other types such as fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free pasta. Each type will lend its unique twist to the dish, so feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.

How do I store leftovers of Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?

To keep your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to make them last longer, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers. Just remember to reheat gently to avoid overcooking the chicken.

What can I serve with Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! Consider serving a light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables to complement the rich flavors of the sauce. Fresh bread for dipping is also a fantastic option! Looking for something heartier? Garlic bread always makes a perfect companion.

If you'd like to dive deeper into pasta pairings, check out resources like Pasta Fit for more ideas and tips!

Conclusion on Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

In summary, Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine combines rich flavors and tender chicken for a delightful dinner. This quick-to-make dish is perfect for busy weeknights while still impressing your guests. Don’t forget to adjust seasonings to your taste! Enjoy every zesty, buttery bite! For more inspiring recipes, check out Serious Eats or Food Network!