This Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a creamy and flavorful dish that brings together juicy chicken and pasta in a dreamy garlic butter sauce. It’s quick to make, perfect for busy nights!
I love how comforting this meal is—it’s like a warm hug on a plate! Just toss everything together, and you’re ready to impress the family or enjoy a cozy night in. Yum! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Linguine: This pasta is perfect for creamy sauces. If you don’t have linguine, you can use fettuccine or spaghetti as a substitute. Just keep an eye on cooking times for different shapes.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts are my go-to for this dish. If you’re short on time, precooked chicken or rotisserie chicken can save you even more time in the kitchen.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
Cheese: Cheddar brings great flavor. You can easily swap it for mozzarella for a milder taste or use a dairy-free cheese if needed.
Spices: The smoked paprika and chili powder are key to that cowboy flavor! If you don’t have these, regular paprika with some black pepper can work. Adjust to your preferred level of spice.
How Can You Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Getting your chicken cooked just right is essential for this recipe. Here’s how to ensure tender and juicy chicken:
- Slice the chicken breasts thinly to help them cook through quickly and evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; work in batches if needed. This way, the chicken gets a nice sear.
- Cook until just browned and no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes, depending on thickness.
Letting the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking can help keep it juicy!
Happy cooking—enjoy this delicious dish!
Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 20 minutes in total to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and chicken, and another 10 minutes mixing everything together in a creamy, flavorful sauce. Quick and easy for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced chicken breasts to the skillet and season generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cumin. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s cooked through and has a nice golden brown color.
3. Add the Garlic:
Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Mix in the Cheese:
Stir in the shredded cheese until it’s fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy. This will add a lovely rich flavor to your dish!
6. Combine with Linguine:
Toss the cooked linguine into the skillet with the creamy chicken sauce. Mix everything well to ensure the pasta is coated evenly with the sauce.
7. Season and Serve:
Before serving, taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. If you love a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh touch.
8. Enjoy Your Meal!
Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy cowboy butter chicken linguine with your loved ones!
FAQs About Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While linguine is perfect for this dish, you can use fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Keep in mind that using a lighter cream might result in a slightly thinner sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to help restore creaminess.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli. Sauté them with the chicken for added flavor and nutrition!
