Name: Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces linguine; 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch bites; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 0.5 teaspoon paprika; 0.5 teaspoon garlic salt; 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt; 0.25 teaspoon pepper; 0.25 cup cowboy butter (divided); 0.75 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon garlic salt; 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 0.5 teaspoon lemon juice; lemon slices (for garnish); parsley (chopped for garnish)

Introduction to Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

What is Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?

Imagine sitting down to a comforting bowl of Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, a dish that brings together the robust flavors of cowboy butter and juicy chicken in a delightful pasta experience. This recipe is a perfect fusion of creamy richness and aromatic spices, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings.

Cowboy butter, a zesty blend of garlic, herbs, and seasoning, elevates this dish to a new level of deliciousness. Combined with tender pieces of chicken and linguine, each bite is a warm hug from your kitchen. Did you know that chicken breast is not only versatile but also a lean protein that can help fuel your active lifestyle? According to the USDA, a 3-ounce serving of chicken breast contains about 26 grams of protein!

Making Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is straightforward—perfect for those who might not be kitchen whizzes yet. With a total cook time of less than 30 minutes, you can easily impress your friends and family with minimal effort. Ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let’s gather those ingredients and get cooking!

For a sneak peek into cowboy butter's flavorful profile, you can explore this cowboy butter recipe.

Ingredients for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Creating a dish as flavorful as Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine starts with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious masterpiece at home.

Pasta and Chicken

Linguine: 8 ounces of this classic pasta is perfect for soaking up the rich sauce.
Chicken: 1 ½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces, ensures each mouthful is meaty and satisfying.

Seasonings and Cooking Oils

Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil adds a healthy fat element.
Spices: You’ll need ½ teaspoon of paprika, garlic salt, kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon of pepper to season the chicken beautifully.

Irresistible Sauce

Cowboy Butter: ¼ cup (4 tablespoons) of this flavorful blend is key to a rich, buttery sauce. Want to make your own? Check out this fabulous cowboy butter recipe.
Heavy Cream: A rich ¾ cup to create a luxurious, creamy texture.
Extras: Don’t forget 1 teaspoon of garlic salt, ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness. Garnish with lemon slices and chopped parsley for that beautiful finishing touch.

These ingredients will ensure your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine not only tastes fantastic but looks irresistible on the plate! Enjoy the process and happy cooking!

Step-by-step Preparation of Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Cooking a meal that feels comforting yet sophisticated is a challenge many young professionals face. Enter Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine! This dish combines creamy richness with savory spices to create a perfect weeknight dinner. Let's dive into the simple steps to bring this delicious meal to your table.

Cooking the linguine

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Adding salt not only flavors the pasta but also increases the water’s boiling point. Once boiling, toss in 8 ounces of linguine and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 9-11 minutes until it achieves that delightful al dente texture. After draining, remember to set the pasta aside. You want it to stay warm but not overcook while you prepare the rest of the dish!

Preparing the chicken

Next up is the star of our dish – the chicken! In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. When it's hot enough, add 1 ½ pounds of boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces in a single layer (this helps them cook evenly). Season them generously with ½ teaspoon each of paprika, garlic salt, kosher salt, and a touch of pepper. Let them cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes until they're beautifully golden brown.

Making the buttery sauce

Now, let’s get to the heart of the dish—the sauce! After flipping the chicken, nestle in 2 tablespoons of cowboy butter. This magical butter blend brings the cowboy spirit to your kitchen, adding flavor and a bit of fun. Continue to cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, about another 3-4 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate, tenting it with foil to keep it warm.

Lower the heat to low and add the remaining cowboy butter, ¾ cup of heavy cream, a teaspoon of garlic salt, and ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet. Don't forget to scrape up those delightful brown bits from the bottom—this is where the flavor hides!

Combining the ingredients

At this point, it's time to bring everything together! Add the cooked linguine and chicken back into the skillet, tossing them together to coat in that rich and creamy sauce. A splash of ½ teaspoon of lemon juice will brighten the flavors, so stir that in for a little extra zing.

Garnishing and serving

Finally, it's time for the finishing touches! Serve your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine hot, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices for a pop of color and flavor. This dish is not just a meal; it's an experience that combines nurturing flavors and a sense of adventure. Gather your friends, pop open a soda or sparkling water, and enjoy!

This delightful recipe is a fine addition to any front-page food blog, so don't hesitate to share it with fellow food enthusiasts!

Variations of Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Spicy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

If you're a fan of a good kick, transform your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine by ramping up the heat! Simply add an extra pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce and toss in some diced jalapeños when cooking the chicken. For an even spicier experience, consider using spicy paprika or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving. Your taste buds will thank you!

Vegetarian Alternative with Mushrooms

Looking for a vegetarian twist? Swap out the chicken for hearty mushrooms, like cremini or portobello. Sauté them until golden brown, then follow the original steps for preparation. The cowboy butter and cream sauce will still deliver a rich, savory flavor to this delightful pasta. Plus, mushrooms add a wonderful meaty texture without the meat!

By experimenting with these variations, every meal can be a fresh adventure. Explore more ideas for your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine journey and enjoy customizing it to your liking!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Cooking this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is easy! Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

Perfectly Cooked Linguine: Always cook your linguine until al dente; it should have a slight bite to it. This texture holds up better when tossed with the sauce.
Chicken Tips: For those juicy chicken bites, don't overcrowd your skillet. Cook in batches if necessary, allowing each piece sufficient space to brown evenly.
Sauce Secrets: To achieve a rich flavor, consider adding a splash of chicken broth or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice—this brightens up your sauce beautifully!
Garnish Wise: Fresh herbs like parsley not only add color but also enhance the flavor of Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. A simple sprinkle before serving makes a big difference!

Remember, cooking is all about feeling comfortable and creative, so don’t hesitate to make this dish your own!

Serving Suggestions for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

When it comes to enjoying your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, presentation is key! To elevate your dish, consider the following serving suggestions:

Accompaniments: Pair your linguine with a side salad—think fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette. This adds a delightful crunch and balances the richness of the dish.
Bread Basket: Serve with crusty bread or soft garlic knots to scoop up any remaining sauce. Who doesn’t love a good bread complement to soak up that luscious cowboy butter sauce?
Garnishes: Enhance visual appeal with extra chopped parsley on top and lemon slices for a splash of color.
Beverage Pairing: For a refreshingly light drink, consider unsweetened iced tea or sparkling water with a splash of lemon.

These small touches will truly make your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine feel gourmet and inviting!

Time Breakdown for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Preparation time
Get your cooking adventure started with a quick preparation time of about 15 minutes. This includes chopping your chicken and getting your ingredients lined up.

Cooking time
The delicious magic happens during the 20 minutes of cooking time. You’ll sauté, boil, and blend flavors effortlessly.

Total time
In just 35 minutes, you’ll have a hearty plate of Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine ready to impress. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends!

For more cooking tips and efficient meal prepping, check out resources from the Food Network or Serious Eats that help streamline your time in the kitchen. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Facts for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

When diving into the deliciousness of Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, it's essential to understand its nutritional profile. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Calories

One serving contains approximately 650 calories, making it a rich and satisfying meal.

Protein

With about 40 grams of protein per serving, this dish is perfect for muscle repair and maintaining energy levels.

Fat

The total fat content is around 30 grams, primarily from the cowboy butter and heavy cream, providing a creamy texture that you’ll love.

For more details on how to balance your meals, consider checking resources like the U.S. Department of Agriculture or NutritionalFacts.com, which offer valuable insights on dietary choices. Enjoy crafting this flavorful dish while being mindful of your nutritional intake!

FAQs about Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While linguine is a fantastic choice for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, you can swap it out for other pasta shapes like fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the pasta you choose, so make sure to follow the package instructions to achieve that perfect al dente texture.

What sides pair well with this dish?
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine shines on its own, but complement it with sides like steamed broccoli, a fresh Caesar salad, or garlic bread. You might also enjoy a light arugula salad dressed with a simple lemon vinaigrette, which balances the richness of the creamy sauce beautifully.

How can I store leftovers?
If you find yourself with any leftovers (which is often the case with this delicious dish!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should be good for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply use a microwave or stovetop; add a splash of cream or a little chicken broth to keep it nice and creamy.

For more tips on pasta dishes, check out this guide on pairing pasta with sauces and ingredients!

Conclusion on Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

To wrap up our journey with Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, this dish beautifully combines rich flavors with comforting textures. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends, its simplicity makes it accessible to cooks of all skill levels. Try it tonight for a delightful culinary experience!