Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is the dinner recipe you never knew you desperately needed in your weekly rotation. Picture this: glossy linguine tangled in a smoky, buttery sauce with juicy, spiced chicken, a hit of garlic, tangy mustard and lemon, and a flurry of fresh parsley at the finish. Every forkful is rich, vibrant, and deeply satisfying with a little cowboy campfire kick. It’s pure comfort with a playful, robust twist, and you’ll crave it every time you want creamy pasta that’s anything but ordinary.

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pulling together Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is delightfully straightforward because the ingredients are heartfelt classics, each one handpicked to play a unique role in building bold flavor, silky texture, and visual appeal. Here’s the lineup and why each is essential to the magic.

Linguine (12 oz): The perfect pasta shape for catching every bit of creamy, buttery sauce.
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (2): Tender, meaty bites that soak up all those cowboy spices.
Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Adds richness and helps brown the chicken beautifully.
Butter (2 tbsp): The heart of the “cowboy butter”—melty, decadent, and ultra-flavorful.
Garlic, Minced (4 cloves): Brings bold aroma and depth to every mouthful.
Smoked Paprika (1 tsp): Adds gentle heat and that irresistible cowboy smokiness.
Red Pepper Flakes (½ tsp or to taste): For a customizable kick—go bolder if you love spicy.
Dijon Mustard (1 tsp): Punches up the tang and rounds out the buttery richness.
Lemon Juice (1 tbsp): A splash of fresh acidity to balance the creamy sauce.
Chicken Broth (½ cup): Infuses savory depth and helps deglaze the tasty pan bits.
Heavy Cream (½ cup): The creamy base that makes the sauce so luscious.
Parmesan Cheese, Grated (½ cup): Melts into the sauce with salty, nutty perfection.
Salt and Black Pepper, to taste: Season all the layers just right.
Fresh Parsley, Chopped (2 tbsp): A crisp, green finish that pops on the plate.

How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil. Drop in your linguine and cook according to package instructions until just al dente—the kind of perfect bite cowboy dreams are made of. Before draining, scoop out half a cup of that gorgeous, starchy pasta water. You’ll want it on standby for the sauce. Drain the pasta, set it aside, and get ready to saddle up for the next flavor-packed step.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta is working its magic, grab your chicken breasts and sprinkle them generously with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Warm olive oil in a big skillet over medium-high heat—when the oil shimmers, lay the chicken in gently. Let each side develop a golden, smoky crust, about 5-6 minutes per side, until the chicken is cooked through and still juicy. Transfer the chicken to a plate, let it rest for a few minutes (this keeps it succulent!), then slice it into fork-friendly pieces.

Step 3: Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce

Turn the heat down to medium and add magical butter straight into the same skillet, letting it melt amongst all those savory browned bits. Toss in the minced garlic and let it sizzle until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Next, whisk in the Dijon mustard, a pop of lemon juice, and the chicken broth. Scrape up every bit of goodness from the bottom of the pan and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes as the flavors cozy up together.

Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese

Swirl in the heavy cream, stirring until the mixture is beautifully smooth and just beginning to thicken. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and gently stir until it melts into the sauce, turning it glossy and rich. If your sauce needs a little loosening, add a splash of that reserved pasta water to keep things silky without losing flavor.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Toss the sliced chicken back into the skillet, then introduce the drained linguine. Using tongs, turn and coat every strand in that luscious cowboy butter sauce until the chicken and pasta are intertwined. Let it all cook together for another minute or two, so the flavors fully meld into the ultimate Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine experience.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once everything is piping hot and gleaming, turn off the heat and shower the dish generously with chopped fresh parsley. This final touch adds a flash of color and a fresh, herbal finish. Serve immediately and get ready for cowboy-level satisfaction.

How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Garnishes

For a show-stopping finish, I love to sprinkle Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine with even more freshly grated Parmesan and a bright burst of parsley. If you want a little heat, a pinch of extra red pepper flakes goes a long way. A thin slice of lemon on the side is delightful for guests who love extra zing!

Side Dishes

This pasta is a star on its own, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides. Try a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or oven-roasted asparagus for freshness. Garlic bread, of course, is a classic—perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce from your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Take Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine from delicious to dazzling by serving it in a big, shallow family-style bowl with extra herbs scattered over the top. For a rustic touch, plate it straight from the skillet at the table—nothing says “comfort food” like digging in together. Want to get fancy? Try individual twirled pasta nests on plates, topped with extra chicken and parsley.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in an airtight container as soon as it cools. Refrigerated, it keeps wonderfully for up to three days, making it a dream for next-day lunches or a quick reheat-and-eat dinner. The creamy sauce keeps the chicken and pasta moist and flavorful.

Freezing

While you can freeze Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine for up to two months, keep in mind that cream sauces may separate a bit when thawed. For best results, freeze portions in individual airtight containers, then thaw gently in the fridge before reheating. The flavor remains bold, even if the texture turns a touch softer.

Reheating

To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth, cream, or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until heated through. For microwaving, cover loosely and use short bursts, stirring in between to keep the sauce creamy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?

Absolutely! Fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne all work wonderfully. Linguine is ideal because it holds the luscious sauce, but feel free to use whatever pasta you have on hand and love.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

Yes, you can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free spin. The sauce will be a bit lighter, but still rich and delicious.

Can I make this recipe spicier or milder?

Of course! Adjust the red pepper flakes to your taste, or leave them out for a milder version. Add a pinch more smoked paprika or even a dash of hot sauce if you want to bring the heat.

What’s the best way to ensure the chicken stays juicy?

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing it. This allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite tender and moist in your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine.

Can I add vegetables to Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?

Definitely! Feel free to sauté spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers in the same skillet before adding the sauce. It’s an easy way to add color and a healthy boost to your meal.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a pasta dish with personality and comfort in every bite, give Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine a try. It’s bold, it’s creamy, and it’s sure to earn a place at your table. Don’t be surprised if you’re asked for the recipe before the plates are cleared!

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 26 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful twist on classic chicken linguine, Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine features tender chicken in a rich, creamy sauce with a hint of spice and tanginess. This indulgent pasta dish is sure to become a family favorite!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook linguine until al dente. Reserve pasta water, then drain.
Prepare the Chicken: Season, cook, and slice the chicken.
Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce: Cook garlic, add mustard, lemon juice, chicken broth, simmer.
Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in cream, simmer, add Parmesan cheese.
Combine Everything: Toss chicken, linguine, and sauce together.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

You can adjust the spice level by varying the amount of red pepper flakes.
Feel free to add some cooked vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and color.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American