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This creamy cowboy butter chicken linguine delivers everything you want in a comforting dinner. Juicy strips of chicken blend into a velvety sauce rich with garlic and herbs and just enough heat to make every bite irresistible.
I fell in love with this dish the first time I made it after a long workday. It was done in less than forty minutes and felt like a restaurant meal at home.
Ingredients
- Chicken breast sliced into strips: juicy and satisfying protein choice
- Salt and black pepper: brings out all the savory notes
- Garlic powder: deepens the flavor of the chicken
- Olive oil: helps sear the chicken with a golden crust
- Butter: base of the sauce for richness and flavor
- Garlic minced: fresh cloves build a strong aromatic layer
- Chicken broth: creates the sauce body while enhancing umami
- Heavy cream: adds the creamy smooth texture
- Parmesan cheese: grated and melted for salty nutty notes
- Lemon juice: brightens the flavor and balances richness
- Chili flakes: optional but gives warmth without overpowering
- Smoked paprika: brings gentle smoky background
- Fresh parsley chopped: to give freshness and color
- Linguine pasta: best pasta shape to hold the buttery sauce
- Salt for pasta water: essential for seasoning from the start
- Choose fresh garlic: firm cloves without soft spots
- Look for heavy cream: with at least thirty six percent fat content
- Buy real parmesan: and grate it fresh for best melt and taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Linguine:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the linguine. Cook until just al dente according to the instructions on the box. Before draining scoop out half a cup of pasta water to save for later. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Season sliced chicken with salt black pepper and garlic powder on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces without crowding the pan. Let them sear for four to five minutes per side until fully cooked and golden. Remove and keep them warm.
- Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce:
- In the same skillet reduce heat to medium. Add butter and allow it to melt. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for one to two minutes until it smells fragrant but not burned. Pour in chicken broth and stir. Let it simmer gently for three to four minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add Cream and Flavorings:
- Stir in the heavy cream parmesan lemon juice chili flakes and smoked paprika. Let the sauce bubble gently while stirring. It will begin to thicken in three to four minutes. Keep an eye so it does not boil too hard or separate.
- Combine Chicken Linguine and Sauce:
- Add the cooked chicken strips back to the skillet along with the cooked linguine. Use tongs to toss everything together until fully coated. If the sauce seems thick add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Turn off the heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately with extra grated parmesan on top for that finishing touch.
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My favorite moment was serving this for friends who scraped the plates clean and asked for seconds. I love how the smoked paprika makes the sauce feel just a bit indulgent and unforgettable.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of broth or cream to keep it saucy.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use half and half instead of heavy cream if you prefer a lighter version. Try fettuccine or penne if linguine is unavailable.
Serving Suggestions
This goes well with roasted asparagus or a simple arugula salad. I often serve garlic bread on the side to soak up the leftover sauce.
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Cultural Context
Cowboy butter originates from a compound butter filled with herbs garlic lemon and spice. It has grown in popularity thanks to its bold flavor and adaptability to meat and pasta dishes. This recipe spins that classic into a creamy comforting meal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne will work well. Choose one that holds the sauce nicely.
- → Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Half-and-half is a lighter alternative, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.
- → How spicy is the dish?
The chili flakes add mild heat. Adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
- → What can I serve alongside it?
Pair with garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.
- → How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream.
- → Do I need fresh lemon juice?
Yes, it brightens the sauce and balances the rich butter and cream.