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Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine: Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe

This cowboy butter chicken linguine combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, spicy garlic butter sauce that's bursting with flavor. Inspired by classic cowboy butter sauce, this one-pan wonder comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet impressive.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 650
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
  • 12 oz linguine pasta
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lemon, juiced

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook linguine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. Season chicken cubes with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, and lemon juice. Stir to combine.
  4. Add the cooked linguine, chicken, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce. Stir in fresh herbs and cook for 2 more minutes until well combined.
  5. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve immediately with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.

Notes

Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking chicken. Reserve pasta water for creating creamy sauce. Fresh herbs make a big difference in flavor. Adjust red pepper flakes to preferred heat level.