Description
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a quick and flavorful pasta dish combining tender strips of seasoned chicken sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce with perfectly cooked linguine. Infused with zesty lemon juice, paprika, thyme, and a hint of cayenne for a subtle kick, this dish offers a delightful balance of creamy, savory, and slightly spicy flavors. Garnished with fresh parsley, it makes an impressive yet easy weeknight meal ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasonings
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta
- 8 oz linguine pasta
Sauce and Garnish
- 1/4 cup butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden, being careful not to burn it.
- Season and cook the chicken: Add the sliced chicken strips to the skillet. Sprinkle the paprika, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken. Cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on the outside and cooked through to the center.
- Combine with pasta: Stir in the lemon juice to the skillet, then add the drained linguine. Toss everything together well, allowing the pasta to be coated evenly with the buttery, garlicky sauce and spices.
- Garnish and serve: Transfer the linguine and chicken to serving plates. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- You can substitute linguine with fettuccine or spaghetti if preferred.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper quantity for milder or spicier heat.
- For a richer flavor, use unsalted butter and add salt gradually.
- Freshly minced garlic enhances aroma compared to garlic powder.
- Chicken breasts can be swapped for thighs for juicier texture, adjusting cooking time as needed.
