Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Tasty and Simple Dish

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Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine? Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine combines rich flavors with easy steps, making it a win for your taste buds and your busy schedule. This dish is simple yet satisfying, perfect for families or a cozy night in. In this post, I’ll guide you through the ingredients, cooking process, and tips to make it just right. Let’s dive into this tasty adventure together!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: This recipe can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  2. Flavor-Packed: The combination of cowboy butter and spices elevates the dish with rich, bold flavors that everyone will love.
  3. Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out the chicken for shrimp or veggies, allowing for endless variations.
  4. Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of cherry tomatoes and fresh parsley make this dish as beautiful as it is delicious.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 8 oz linguine pasta

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tsp smoked paprika

– 1 tsp onion powder

– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)

– 1 tsp Italian seasoning

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

– Juice of 1 lemon

– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Optional Ingredients for Enhanced Flavor

You can add some fresh basil for a burst of flavor. A pinch of red pepper flakes gives extra heat. Consider using sun-dried tomatoes for a rich taste. A splash of white wine adds depth to the sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can’t find linguine, any pasta works well. Use chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness. If you’re out of butter, olive oil is a good swap. For a dairy-free version, skip the Parmesan or use a nut-based cheese. Need a gluten-free option? Use gluten-free pasta instead.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Linguine

First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of linguine pasta to the pot. Cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. Don’t forget to save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. This water helps make the sauce creamy later.

Preparing and Seasoning the Chicken

Now, take 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast. Cut it into bite-sized pieces. Place the chicken in a bowl. Season it well with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. I like to use 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika and onion powder, plus 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne. Adjust the cayenne to match your spice level. Mix everything well to coat the chicken evenly.

Making the Cowboy Butter Sauce

Grab a large skillet and place it over medium-high heat. Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in the skillet. Once the butter is hot, add the seasoned chicken. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes. It should turn golden brown and be cooked through. After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining melted butter and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 1 minute until you smell the garlic. Next, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes. Stir to combine. Toss in the cooked linguine and mix everything well. If the dish feels dry, use the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the right consistency.

Finally, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and the juice of 1 lemon. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an extra 1 to 2 minutes, letting the flavors meld. Your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is ready to serve!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Pasta Texture

To get the best pasta, cook the linguine until it is al dente. This means it should have a little bite to it. Boil a large pot of salted water to enhance the flavor. Once cooked, save some pasta water. This water helps make the sauce creamy. If your pasta seems dry, add a little pasta water to it when mixing.

Enhancing Flavors with Seasonings

The right spices make this dish pop. Use smoked paprika for a deep, rich flavor. Onion powder adds a nice base taste. Don’t forget the cayenne pepper! You can adjust the amount based on how spicy you like it. Always taste as you go and season with salt and pepper. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the whole dish.

Useful Cooking Techniques for Chicken

When cooking chicken, make sure it is cut into small pieces. This helps it cook evenly and quickly. Sear the chicken over medium-high heat to get a nice golden color. Use a hot skillet and don’t overcrowd it. Cook until it’s fully done, about 5-7 minutes. Removing the chicken before adding the butter sauce keeps it juicy and tasty.

Pro Tips

  1. Perfect the Pasta: Always reserve some pasta water before draining the linguine. This starchy water can help you achieve the desired sauce consistency when mixing everything together.
  2. Chicken Cooking Tip: To ensure even cooking and a golden crust, don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken. Cook in batches if necessary.
  3. Adjust the Spice: Feel free to modify the cayenne pepper according to your heat preference. Start with a smaller amount and add more as needed to suit your taste.
  4. Fresh Herbs Matter: Using fresh parsley not only adds flavor but also brightens the dish. Consider adding fresh basil or chives for a different twist!

Variations

Vegetarian Version Using Tofu

You can make a tasty version of Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine using tofu. Replace the chicken with firm tofu for a great plant-based option. Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess water. Cut it into bite-sized pieces and season just like the chicken. Cook the tofu in the skillet until golden brown. This swap keeps the dish creamy and delicious while being vegetarian-friendly.

Alternative Protein Options

If you want to switch up the protein, try shrimp or turkey. Shrimp cooks fast and adds a nice flavor. Just sauté it in the skillet until it turns pink. For turkey, use ground turkey. Cook it in the skillet like you would with chicken. Both options work well with the cowboy butter sauce and keep the meal exciting.

Adding Vegetables for Extra Nutrition

Boost nutrition by adding vegetables to your dish. You can toss in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Sauté them with garlic before adding the cooked chicken and linguine. This not only adds color but also enhances the health benefits. Plus, it makes your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine even more filling and delicious.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

After enjoying your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, let the leftovers cool. Use an airtight container. This helps keep the dish fresh. Store in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing.

Reheating Tips for Best Results

To reheat, use a skillet or microwave. If using a skillet, add a splash of water. This helps steam the pasta and keeps it moist. Heat on low until warm. Stir often to prevent burning. If you use the microwave, cover the dish with a lid or paper towel. Heat for one minute, then check. Repeat until hot.

Freezing Instructions for Long-Term Storage

If you want to freeze the dish, pack it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat it as mentioned above for the best taste and texture.

FAQs

What can I serve with Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?

You can serve several tasty sides with Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. Here are some great options:

Garlic Bread: The warm, crunchy bread is perfect for soaking up sauce.

Caesar Salad: A fresh salad adds a crisp touch to your meal.

Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans bring color and nutrients.

Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes can add heartiness to the meal.

These sides enhance the dish and create a full dining experience.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use different types of pasta for this dish. Some good choices are:

Fettuccine: This wide noodle holds the sauce well.

Penne: The tubes capture bits of chicken and sauce.

Spaghetti: A classic choice that always works.

Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level in Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine can be adjusted. The recipe uses cayenne pepper for heat. Here’s how you can manage the spice:

Mild: Use no cayenne pepper at all.

Medium: Add half a teaspoon of cayenne for some kick.

Spicy: Use one teaspoon or more for a fiery dish.

You can always adjust the spice to suit your taste!

In this blog post, we explored the key ingredients needed for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. We discussed options to enhance flavor, made substitutions simple, and provided step-by-step cooking instructions. I shared tips on perfecting pasta and chicken, and even offered variations for different diets. Finally, we covered how to store leftovers and answered common questions. With these insights, you can create a tasty meal that satisfies your taste buds. Enjoy your cooking journe

- 8 oz linguine pasta - 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tsp smoked paprika - 1 tsp onion powder - 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference) - 1 tsp Italian seasoning - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped - Juice of 1 lemon - Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional) You can add some fresh basil for a burst of flavor. A pinch of red pepper flakes gives extra heat. Consider using sun-dried tomatoes for a rich taste. A splash of white wine adds depth to the sauce. If you can't find linguine, any pasta works well. Use chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness. If you're out of butter, olive oil is a good swap. For a dairy-free version, skip the Parmesan or use a nut-based cheese. Need a gluten-free option? Use gluten-free pasta instead. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of linguine pasta to the pot. Cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. Don't forget to save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. This water helps make the sauce creamy later. Now, take 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast. Cut it into bite-sized pieces. Place the chicken in a bowl. Season it well with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. I like to use 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika and onion powder, plus 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne. Adjust the cayenne to match your spice level. Mix everything well to coat the chicken evenly. Grab a large skillet and place it over medium-high heat. Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in the skillet. Once the butter is hot, add the seasoned chicken. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes. It should turn golden brown and be cooked through. After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining melted butter and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 1 minute until you smell the garlic. Next, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes. Stir to combine. Toss in the cooked linguine and mix everything well. If the dish feels dry, use the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the right consistency. Finally, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and the juice of 1 lemon. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an extra 1 to 2 minutes, letting the flavors meld. Your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is ready to serve! To get the best pasta, cook the linguine until it is al dente. This means it should have a little bite to it. Boil a large pot of salted water to enhance the flavor. Once cooked, save some pasta water. This water helps make the sauce creamy. If your pasta seems dry, add a little pasta water to it when mixing. The right spices make this dish pop. Use smoked paprika for a deep, rich flavor. Onion powder adds a nice base taste. Don't forget the cayenne pepper! You can adjust the amount based on how spicy you like it. Always taste as you go and season with salt and pepper. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the whole dish. When cooking chicken, make sure it is cut into small pieces. This helps it cook evenly and quickly. Sear the chicken over medium-high heat to get a nice golden color. Use a hot skillet and don’t overcrowd it. Cook until it's fully done, about 5-7 minutes. Removing the chicken before adding the butter sauce keeps it juicy and tasty. Pro Tips Perfect the Pasta: Always reserve some pasta water before draining the linguine. This starchy water can help you achieve the desired sauce consistency when mixing everything together. Chicken Cooking Tip: To ensure even cooking and a golden crust, don't overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken. Cook in batches if necessary. Adjust the Spice: Feel free to modify the cayenne pepper according to your heat preference. Start with a smaller amount and add more as needed to suit your taste. Fresh Herbs Matter: Using fresh parsley not only adds flavor but also brightens the dish. Consider adding fresh basil or chives for a different twist! {{image_2}} You can make a tasty version of Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine using tofu. Replace the chicken with firm tofu for a great plant-based option. Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess water. Cut it into bite-sized pieces and season just like the chicken. Cook the tofu in the skillet until golden brown. This swap keeps the dish creamy and delicious while being vegetarian-friendly. If you want to switch up the protein, try shrimp or turkey. Shrimp cooks fast and adds a nice flavor. Just sauté it in the skillet until it turns pink. For turkey, use ground turkey. Cook it in the skillet like you would with chicken. Both options work well with the cowboy butter sauce and keep the meal exciting. Boost nutrition by adding vegetables to your dish. You can toss in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Sauté them with garlic before adding the cooked chicken and linguine. This not only adds color but also enhances the health benefits. Plus, it makes your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine even more filling and delicious. After enjoying your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, let the leftovers cool. Use an airtight container. This helps keep the dish fresh. Store in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing. To reheat, use a skillet or microwave. If using a skillet, add a splash of water. This helps steam the pasta and keeps it moist. Heat on low until warm. Stir often to prevent burning. If you use the microwave, cover the dish with a lid or paper towel. Heat for one minute, then check. Repeat until hot. If you want to freeze the dish, pack it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat it as mentioned above for the best taste and texture. You can serve several tasty sides with Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. Here are some great options: - Garlic Bread: The warm, crunchy bread is perfect for soaking up sauce. - Caesar Salad: A fresh salad adds a crisp touch to your meal. - Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans bring color and nutrients. - Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes can add heartiness to the meal. These sides enhance the dish and create a full dining experience. Yes, you can use different types of pasta for this dish. Some good choices are: - Fettuccine: This wide noodle holds the sauce well. - Penne: The tubes capture bits of chicken and sauce. - Spaghetti: A classic choice that always works. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose. The spice level in Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine can be adjusted. The recipe uses cayenne pepper for heat. Here’s how you can manage the spice: - Mild: Use no cayenne pepper at all. - Medium: Add half a teaspoon of cayenne for some kick. - Spicy: Use one teaspoon or more for a fiery dish. You can always adjust the spice to suit your taste! In this blog post, we explored the key ingredients needed for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. We discussed options to enhance flavor, made substitutions simple, and provided step-by-step cooking instructions. I shared tips on perfecting pasta and chicken, and even offered variations for different diets. Finally, we covered how to store leftovers and answered common questions. With these insights, you can create a tasty meal that satisfies your taste buds. Enjoy your cooking journey!

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

A delicious and creamy pasta dish featuring chicken and a flavorful butter sauce.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz linguine pasta
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 2 unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 2 cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 4 fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 juice of lemon
  • 1 for serving grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
  • Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
  • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium, and add the remaining melted butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Add the cooked chicken and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir in the cooked linguine and toss to combine. If the mixture is too dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
  • Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and lemon juice. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.
  • Transfer to serving bowls, sprinkle fresh parsley on top, and add grated Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Adjust the cayenne pepper for desired spice level.
Keyword butter sauce, chicken, pasta, quick meal

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