Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is one of those dishes that has everything you could want in a weeknight meal: it’s quick, it’s flavorful, and it’s downright satisfying. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a particularly busy week when I needed something hearty but didn’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. With its creamy, garlicky sauce and tender chicken, this pasta dish elevates a simple dinner to something truly special. Trust me, it’s reached "family favorite" status at my house, and I think it will for you, too!
Why you’ll love this dish
What makes Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine stand out? For starters, it’s a one-pan wonder that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for busy families or anyone looking to whip up a quick meal after a long day. The combination of buttery goodness, zesty lemon, and a hint of Dijon creates a sauce that’s bursting with flavor yet incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for a casual dinner or a cozy night in, you’ll find this dish to be both comforting and impressive.
"I made this on a whim for a weeknight dinner, and it was a hit! The flavors are bold and the sauce is divine. Definitely making this recipe again."
Preparing Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
To prepare this delightful dish, you’ll start by cooking your linguine until al dente, while you’ll also pan-sear the chicken to a golden brown. The magic happens when minced garlic, mustard, and lemon juice come into play, transforming simple ingredients into a luscious sauce that coats the linguine beautifully. Each step is straightforward, ensuring you can follow along easily without feeling overwhelmed.
What you’ll need
Gather these items to create your own Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine:
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp dried herbs (such as thyme or parsley)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
For a twist, consider using whole wheat linguine for added fiber, or even swap out the chicken for shrimp if you want a seafood flair!
Step-by-step instructions
Here’s how to bring this delicious pasta dish to life:
- Cook the linguine according to package instructions; then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook until they are browned and fully cooked.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing the aroma to fill your kitchen.
- Add the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and dried herbs, stirring to combine everything into a luscious sauce.
- Toss the cooked linguine into the skillet with the chicken and sauce until every strand is well coated.
- Serve warm, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley to add a touch of color and freshness.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, you have a few delicious options. Plate it in a shallow bowl to showcase that creamy sauce and garnish generously with parsley. Pair it with a fresh green salad drizzled with vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up the sauce. A glass of crisp white wine would complement the dish beautifully, adding another layer of enjoyment.
Storage and reheating tips
Leftover Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine? No problem! Store any uneaten pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When it’s time to enjoy the leftovers, you can gently reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce. If you plan to save it longer, consider freezing the pasta without the garnish. In the freezer, it will keep well for up to three months.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few tips to ensure your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine turns out perfectly every time:
- Make sure to cook the chicken in batches if your skillet isn’t large enough. This helps achieve an even browning and avoids steaming the chicken.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic if you’re a garlic lover! More cloves will amp up the flavor and aroma.
- Add some sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
Creative twists
Looking to switch things up? Try these fun variations:
- Swap out the chicken for cooked sausage or grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- Spice it up by adding red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Use different pasta shapes, like penne or fettuccine, for a new texture experience.
Your questions answered
What is the prep time for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?
The prep time is roughly 10 minutes, and you’ll spend about 15-20 minutes cooking, making it a quick meal to throw together in under 30 minutes.
Can I use a different kind of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta.
How long can I keep leftovers in the fridge?
Leftovers can be kept for up to three days in an airtight container in the fridge. Just be sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine without the parsley garnish. It will keep well for three months; just thaw and reheat gently when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings a modest kitchen to life with vibrant flavors. Dive in, and I hope it brings as much joy to your dinner table as it has to mine!
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Sauce and Seasoning
- 2 tbsp butter melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 lemon Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp dried herbs (such as thyme or parsley)
- to taste Salt and pepper
Garnish
- to taste Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the linguine according to package instructions; then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook until they are browned and fully cooked.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and dried herbs, stirring to combine everything into a luscious sauce.
- Toss the cooked linguine into the skillet with the chicken and sauce until every strand is well coated.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.
