Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine: A Culinary Delight

If you’re searching for a dish that combines comfort with a touch of sophistication, look no further than Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. This delightful recipe marries the rich flavors of buttery chicken with the creamy texture of a luscious sauce, all served over perfectly cooked linguine. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner at home or impressing guests at a gathering, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

To whip up this mouthwatering meal, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound of boneless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cowboy Butter Sauce:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (preferably at room temperature)
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon

For the Pasta:

• 8 ounces of linguine
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
• Additional parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook the chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the linguine: In a pot of salted boiling water, cook the linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Step 3: Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce

1. Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet used to cook the chicken, add the butter over low heat. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the garlic to become fragrant but not browned.
2. Add cream and lemon: Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Add the lemon zest and juice, continuing to mix until everything is well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Slice the chicken: Cut the cooked chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces.
2. Mix with pasta: Toss the cooked linguine in the Cowboy Butter sauce, followed by the sliced chicken. Stir in the chopped parsley to add freshness and flavor.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate the dish: Serve the creamy cowboy butter chicken linguine in bowls. Top each serving with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of additional parsley for a pop of color.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that transports you to a rustic, hearty kitchen in the heart of the countryside. Perfect for any occasion, this dish offers a unique twist on classic pasta recipes. Enjoy it paired with a fresh salad or a glass of your favorite white wine for a complete dining experience. Bon appétit!