Get ready to savor the mouth-watering delight of Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine! This dish combines tender chicken, creamy butter sauce, and perfectly cooked linguine for a dish that truly impresses. Its vibrant colors and rich flavors make it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. The creamy sauce, fresh parsley, and a hint of spice will leave everyone wanting seconds!
The sensory experience of this dish will have your taste buds dancing with joy. The aroma of garlic and buttery goodness fills the kitchen, setting the stage for a delicious meal. In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know to create this delightful dish, from essential ingredients to step-by-step instructions. Let’s dive into making the best Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine you’ve ever tasted!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh chicken, herbs, and garlic for maximum flavor.
- Ease of Preparation: This quick dish comes together in one pan, simplifying clean-up.
- Nutrition: Packed with protein and a touch of cream, it’s a balanced meal.
- Versatility: Adapt the recipe to your taste with various spices or veggies.
- Presentation: The rich colors and creamy texture make it visually appealing.
This recipe is sure to become a household favorite!
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total time: 30 minutes
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Ingredients You’ll Need
Start by selecting the right ingredients to create a delicious Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. You’ll need about 1 lb (3-4 boneless, skinless) chicken breasts, 8 oz linguine pasta, 4-5 cloves fresh garlic (minced), 6 tbsp unsalted butter, 1 cup heavy cream, ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley, ½ tsp red pepper flakes, and salt and pepper to taste.
Main Protein
- What You Typically Use: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts offer tenderness and are easy to cook.
- How to Prepare It: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Substitutions and Alternatives: If you’re looking for an alternative, turkey breast or even shrimp can work well.
- Tips or Warnings: Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly to 165°F for safety.
Starch/Pasta
- What You Typically Use: Linguine pasta pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
- How to Prepare It: Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Substitutions and Alternatives: If you’re looking for an alternative, spaghetti or penne can also be used.
- Tips or Warnings: Don’t overcook the pasta; it should have a slight bite.
Seasoning/Spice Blend
- What You Typically Use: Red pepper flakes give a mild kick to the dish.
- How to Prepare It: Simply sprinkle into the sauce for warmth.
- Substitutions and Alternatives: If you prefer milder flavors, skip the pepper flakes or use paprika.
- Tips or Warnings: Adjust seasoning to your taste before serving.
Liquids/Dairy
- What You Typically Use: Heavy cream brings richness to the sauce.
- How to Prepare It: Add directly to the cooked chicken for a creamy texture.
- Substitutions and Alternatives: If you’re looking for an alternative, half-and-half or a dairy-free cream can work.
- Tips or Warnings: Avoid boiling the cream to prevent separation.
Aromatics & Vegetables
- What You Typically Use: Fresh garlic adds wonderful flavor.
- How to Prepare It: Mince the garlic and sauté it to release its aroma.
- Substitutions and Alternatives: If you’re looking for an alternative, shallots can be used for a milder taste.
- Tips or Warnings: Don’t burn the garlic; it turns bitter quickly!
Optional Finishing Ingredients
- What You Typically Use: Fresh parsley brightens the dish.
- How to Prepare It: Chop finely and sprinkle on top before serving.
- Substitutions and Alternatives: If you’re looking for an alternative, basil or chives offer a similar effect.
- Tips or Warnings: Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a breeze, thanks to its one-pan method! Follow these simple steps to bring it all together.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the cut chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, reaching 165°F internal temperature.Step 3: Cook the Garlic
Move the cooked chicken to one side of the skillet. In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!Step 4: Create the Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Mix well, letting it simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the reserved linguine to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta fully. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.Step 6: Add Final Touches
Stir in the chopped parsley and red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Cook for an additional minute to combine flavors.Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately while hot, garnished with extra parsley if desired. Enjoy the comforting flavors with your loved ones!
How to Serve
- Presentation: Serve in large bowls to show off the creamy sauce and parsley.
- Accompaniments: Pair with garlic bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
- Portions: This recipe serves about 4, perfect for sharing!
- Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay, to complement the creaminess.
This dish will undoubtedly impress your guests!
Additional Tips
- Flavor Enhancement: Add cherry tomatoes for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
- Customization: Feel free to toss in your favorite vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
- Serving Suggestions: Try garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Chipotle: Add chipotle pepper to the sauce for a smoky twist.
- Mediterranean Style: Incorporate olives and feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms and zucchini for a veggie delight.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Special Equipment
- Large pot
- Strainer
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
FAQ’s
1. Can I use frozen chicken instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.
2. Is this recipe suitable for those on a low-carb diet?
To make it low-carb, consider using zucchini noodles instead of linguine.
3. Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, you can cook the chicken and sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to keep the pasta separate until you’re ready to serve.
4. How can I customize the spice levels?
You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or add ingredients like jalapeño for extra heat.
5. Are there alternative cooking methods for this dish?
This dish can be made in a slow cooker or instant pot, adjusting the cooking times accordingly.
Conclusion
Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a delightful blend of flavors that comes together effortlessly! With its creamy sauce, satisfying chicken, and lively presentation, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests. Don’t hesitate to try it today—your taste buds will thank you!
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Ingredients
Main Protein
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts Cut into bite-sized pieces
Pasta
- 8 oz linguine pasta Cook according to package instructions
Aromatics
- 4-5 cloves fresh garlic, minced Sauté to release aroma
Sauce
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter 3 tbsp for sautéing chicken, 3 tbsp for sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream Add directly to the cooked chicken
Finishing Ingredients
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley Sprinkle on top before serving
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes Adjust according to taste
Seasoning
- to taste salt and pepper Adjust to preference
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Boil salted water in a large pot, add the linguine, and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve a cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.
Sautéing the Chicken
- Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
Cooking the Garlic
- Move the chicken to one side of the skillet, add minced garlic, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Creating the Sauce
- Pour in heavy cream and stir in the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Let it simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
Combining Everything
- Add reserved linguine to the skillet with chicken and sauce, toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Finishing Touches
- Stir in chopped parsley and red pepper flakes, adjust seasoning as needed, and cook for an additional minute to combine flavors.
Serving the Dish
- Serve immediately while hot, garnished with extra parsley if desired. Enjoy!
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