Let me tell you about one of my favorite weeknight recipes: Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. If you’ve ever been in the mood for something that’s packed with flavor yet feels like a comforting hug on a plate, this dish is the one! The first time I made it, I was fumbling through my pantry, searching for a creative way to use some leftover chicken and pasta. After a quick rummage and a sprinkle of inspiration, Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine was born!
What makes this dish particularly special is the cowboy butter sauce. It’s a rich, herby blend that transforms simple ingredients into something truly remarkable. The buttery goodness clings to the linguine, and when combined with tender chicken, it’s completely irresistible. Plus, the vibrant colors and the aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone gathering around the table, eagerly waiting to dig in. So, let’s get cooking!
What’s in Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?
Chicken: The star of the show! I recommend using chicken breasts or thighs, which are both juicy and flavorful. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken works great too – just shred it up and toss it in!
Linguine: This pasta is the perfect vehicle for that buttery sauce. Its long, flat shape allows it to soak up all those delicious flavors. You can substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free linguine if that’s your jam!
Butter: The foundation of the cowboy butter sauce! Use unsalted for better control of the seasoning. I like to use high-quality butter to enhance the rich flavor of this dish.
Garlic: No recipe is complete without garlic! Freshly minced garlic adds an aromatic kick and a depth of flavor that makes everything better.
Fresh Herbs: I love using parsley and chives for a pop of color and freshness. Feel free to mix it up with dill or basil—use what you have on hand!
Lemon Juice: Just a squeeze of fresh lemon brightens up the dish and balances the richness of the butter.
Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, red pepper flakes add a nice kick to the dish. Adjust to your preference!
Is Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Good for You?
Now, let’s chat health! While Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is undeniably delicious, it offers a balanced meal with protein, carbohydrates, and fats when enjoyed in moderation.
Chicken: A fantastic source of lean protein that helps keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Linguine: This provides energy in the form of carbohydrates, ideal to fuel your day. Just keep in mind portion sizes if you’re watching your carbs.
Butter: Yes, it’s rich in calories, but using it in moderation adds flavor without compromising the overall health of the dish. You can always substitute part of the butter with a healthier fat, like olive oil, if you’re looking to lighten things up.
Overall, this dish can be part of a healthy diet, especially when paired with a side of veggies or a garden salad for added fiber and nutrients!
Ingredients List
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb total)
– 8 oz linguine
– ½ cup unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped chives
– Juice of 1 lemon
– ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Serves: 4
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?
1. Start by cooking the linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of the pasta water.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and let it rest.
3. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Chop the rested chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it to the skillet. Toss to coat in the buttery sauce.
5. Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, along with the lemon juice, fresh herbs, and red pepper flakes. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if it seems too dry.
6. Serve hot, garnished with extra herbs and a sprinkle of cheese if desired!
Perfectly Cowboy-ified Tips & Variations
– Feeling adventurous? Try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for some added veggies.
– Swap out the linguistic for zoodles (zucchini noodles) to make it gluten-free and lower in carbs!
– If you love a creamy finish, add a splash of heavy cream at the end for a richer sauce.
I hope you’ll give this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine a try! I promise it’ll become a cherished favorite in your home, just as it is in mine. It’s perfect for family dinners or a date night in, and I would love to hear how you make it your own! So get your aprons on, and let’s get cooking!
