There’s something about a quick, hearty meal that makes the end of a long day feel so much better. Irresistibly Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is one of those dishes that combines creamy, rich flavors with a burst of freshness from lemon and parsley, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. Within just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delightful pasta dish that marries juicy chicken with perfectly cooked linguine in a buttery sauce that’s simply unforgettable.
Why We Love This Irresistibly Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in 30 Minutes Recipe
This dish is an all-in-one wonder that suits a variety of tastes and preferences. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about flavor, too. Each bite of tender chicken smothered in a creamy, garlic-infused sauce is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The simplicity of the ingredients means you can have a restaurant-quality meal without needing a culinary degree. In addition, it’s adaptable and allows you to play with flavors according to your preference. If you’re looking for a satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare and delightful to eat, this recipe has you covered!
Ingredients about Irresistibly Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in 30 Minutes
To create a delicious Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, you will need the following ingredients:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 ounces linguine pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or reserved pasta water
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How to Make Irresistibly Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in 30 Minutes Directions
You’re just steps away from a delightful dinner that you can prepare in half an hour! Let’s dive into the easy steps to create your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine.
- Cook the pasta: Start by bringing a large pot filled with salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add in the linguine. Cook the pasta according to package directions until it reaches an al dente texture. Remember to reserve about half a cup of the starchy pasta water before you drain it. Set the pasta aside.
- Cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Take your boneless chicken breasts, season them generously with salt and black pepper on both sides, and place them in the hot skillet. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden and fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Let it melt before adding the minced garlic, paprika, and a dash of red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Sauté these ingredients for about a minute until you can smell the tantalizing garlic aroma. Next, add the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth. Make sure to scrape any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet; they are full of flavor!
- Create the creamy sauce: Now, gently pour in the heavy cream and add half of the chopped parsley into the skillet. Continue cooking for a couple of minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Once it’s at a nice consistency, return the chicken and the drained pasta to the skillet. Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the top and toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the creamy, delicious sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
- Serve: Finally, take a moment to taste your creation. Season with additional salt and pepper as you see fit. Serve your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine immediately, garnishing with the remaining parsley and a sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese. Enjoy your cozy, home-cooked meal!
How to Serve Irresistibly Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in 30 Minutes
When serving your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, presentation can elevate the dining experience. To start, dish out generous portions of the creamy pasta into bowls or plates. Sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. If you’re a fan of cheese, offer extra grated parmesan on the side for those who crave a cheesy kick. This dish pairs well with a fresh side salad or crusty bread that can soak up any leftover sauce, making it even more satisfying. Set the table with some warm, inviting décor to further enhance the comforting atmosphere of your meal.
Expert Tips: Irresistibly Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in 30 Minutes
To ensure you get the most out of your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, here are some expert tips that will make your cooking experience seamless and enjoyable:
- Chicken Preparation: For the juiciest chicken, let your boneless breasts rest at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking. This helps in achieving an even cook throughout.
- Pasta Cooking: Always remember to reserve that pasta water! The starchy liquid can be a game-changer in achieving the perfect sauce consistency.
- Herb Freshness: Fresh parsley adds brightness to the dish. If you can, use freshly chopped parsley instead of dried herbs for a more vibrant flavor.
- Adjust Cream: If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with half-and-half or even Greek yogurt, though this may change the sauce’s overall texture.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to play with spices! Consider adding Italian herbs like oregano or basil for an additional flavor dimension.
How to Store Irresistibly Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in 30 Minutes
To store your leftovers, let the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in a skillet over medium heat. If the sauce seems a bit too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to bring it back to that creamy consistency. Avoid freezing the pasta dish, as the cream may change texture when thawed.
Variation of Irresistibly Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in 30 Minutes
While this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is fantastic as is, consider trying some variations to keep things exciting:
- Protein Swap: Instead of chicken, try using shrimp or tofu for a different protein source. Just be mindful of cooking times, as shrimp cooks much faster than chicken.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Enhance the nutrition and flavor by incorporating seasonal veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Sauté them in the skillet before adding in the cream for a delightful crunch and color.
- Spice It Up: If you love heat, throw in some sliced jalapeños or switch out the red pepper flakes with a spicier chili powder.
- Whole-Grain Option: Swap the linguine for whole-grain pasta or gluten-free pasta if dietary restrictions are a concern.
- Different Cheeses: Play with different cheese types! Adding a crumble of feta or goat cheese on top can provide a tangy flair that complements the dish beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take to make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?
This delicious Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine can be prepared in just about 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a fast, satisfying meal.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the chicken and sauce separately and combine them with the linguine just before serving.
What can I serve with Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?
Pair it with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be a great option for meal prepping lunches or quick dinners.
Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe offers flexibility. You can swap chicken for shrimp or tofu, and choose different veggies or cheeses based on your preferences.
Now you have everything you need to create your own Irresistibly Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in just 30 minutes. Enjoy the cooking process and the delicious results!
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts For juiciest chicken, let rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
- 12 ounces linguine pasta Reserve half a cup of the starchy pasta water.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For frying the chicken.
- 3 tablespoons butter For the sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Adds flavor to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional for heat.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped Use fresh for best flavor.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or reserved pasta water For adjusting sauce consistency.
- 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute half with half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese Plus extra for serving.
- to taste Salt and black pepper Season to taste.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in the linguine and cook according to package directions until al dente, reserving half a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining.
Cooking the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and black pepper, then cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Making the Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Sauté until fragrant.
- Add Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth, scraping any bits from the skillet.
Creating the Creamy Sauce
- Pour in heavy cream and half of the chopped parsley. Cook for a couple of minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Return the chicken and drained pasta to the skillet, sprinkle with parmesan cheese, and toss until well-coated. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if necessary.
Serving
- Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately, garnishing with remaining parsley and extra parmesan.
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