If you’re looking for a hearty and flavorful meal that combines comfort and zest, our Chicken Linguine Cowboy Butter recipe is sure to delight your taste buds. This dish marries the creamy texture of linguine with the rich, bold flavors of cowboy butter, and tender chicken pieces for a meal that’s both satisfying and adventurous. Perfect for family dinners or when you want to impress guests, this recipe is as easy to prepare as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 400g Linguine pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipments
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Knife
- Cutting board
How to Make Chicken Linguine Cowboy Butter – Step By Step
Step 1: Cook the Linguine
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the linguine until al dente according to package instructions. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Ensure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Once cooked, drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Prepare the Cowboy Butter
In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, paprika, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning as desired to balance the heat and tanginess.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a touch of oil. Once hot, add the chicken strips. Season with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Combine Linguine and Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and add the cowboy butter to the same skillet, making sure to scrape up any brown bits for extra flavor. Add the cooked linguine and toss well to coat. If the sauce seems too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
Step 5: Add Chicken and Serve
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and gently combine everything. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Your Chicken Linguine with Cowboy Butter is now ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Chicken Linguine Cowboy Butter
This dish is best served hot and immediately after preparation. Garnish with extra parsley and a wedge of lemon for an added burst of freshness. Pair it with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For the best results, make sure your butter is softened before mixing the ingredients for the cowboy butter. Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to match your heat preference. If the sauce thickens too much while waiting for the linguine, a splash of pasta water can help bring it back to the perfect creamy texture.
High Protein Version: Double the Chicken, Double the Fun!
Boost the protein content of this recipe by adding double the amount of chicken breast slices. This not only enhances the nutritional profile but also ensures every bite is jam-packed with succulent goodness. For an even more robust meal, consider tossing in some chickpeas or your favorite legumes.
Low Carb Delights: Zoodles and All
For those watching their carb intake, swap out the linguine for zucchini noodles (zoodles) or other vegetable spirals. This low-carb option doesn’t skimp on flavor, as the cowboy butter sauce complements the squashy noodles beautifully. Continue to follow the steps as normal to create a lighter dish that still satisfies.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet, adding a splash of water if the sauce becomes too thick. If freezing, do so in single portions to make reheating manageable, though be aware that pasta can become mushy after thawing.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat linguine for this recipe? Yes, whole wheat linguine can be used as a healthier alternative, providing added fiber while maintaining the dish’s flavor.
Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe? Absolutely, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and ensure other ingredients, such as Dijon mustard, are dairy-free.
What can I substitute for parsley? Fresh cilantro or basil can provide a different but delicious twist if parsley isn’t available.
Must the chicken be cooked separately? While cooking separately ensures even cooking, you can poach the chicken directly in the cowboy butter for an infusion of flavor.
Tantalizing Tastes: A Culinary Wrap-Up
Our Chicken Linguine Cowboy Butter recipe is a tantalizing meld of flavors that mixes effortless preparation with gourmet-level taste. Whether you stick to the traditional version or experiment with higher protein or low carb alternatives, you’re in for a real treat. Try it out, and don’t forget to share your delightful creations with friends or leave a comment about your experience!
Chicken Linguine Cowboy Butter
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Linguine pasta
- chicken breasts
- butter
- garlic
- lemon juice
- Dijon mustard
- paprika
- cayenne pepper
- freshly chopped parsley
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the linguine until al dente according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally and drain, reserving a cup of pasta water.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt. Whisk together until smooth.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add oil. Add the chicken strips, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes.
- Reduce heat to medium, add the cowboy butter to the skillet, then add the cooked linguine, tossing to coat. Add reserved pasta water if needed.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Combine, sprinkle with parsley, and serve immediately.