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Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Indulge in creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine with tender chicken, garlic herb sauce, and perfectly cooked linguine.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 620 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Cowboy Butter Sauce

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp honey
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp fresh chives, chopped
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Chicken

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Pasta

  • 12 oz linguine
  • 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water

For Garnish

  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Extra parsley and chives
  • Lemon wedges

Instructions
 

Step 1: Make the Cowboy Butter

  • In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, garlic, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, cayenne, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
  • Stir in parsley, chives, and optional red pepper flakes. Set aside to let flavors meld.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  • Season chicken strips with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add chicken and cook 5–7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Linguine

  • Boil salted water in a large pot.
  • Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente.
  • Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

  • Reduce skillet heat to low and pour in the cowboy butter.
  • Add linguine and toss to coat evenly. Add reserved pasta water gradually to adjust sauce consistency.
  • Return chicken to the skillet and mix thoroughly.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

  • Plate pasta and sprinkle with Parmesan, parsley, and chives.
  • Serve with lemon wedges for a bright, fresh finish.

Notes

  • Use high-quality butter for a richer sauce.
  • Fresh herbs make a significant flavor difference.
  • Adjust spice according to your preference.
  • Pair with a crisp white wine for an elevated dining experience.