Looking for a comforting yet bold pasta dish? This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine combines juicy, seasoned chicken with a rich, garlicky butter sauce that coats every strand of linguine. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving a satisfying meal, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your home.

Ingredients

• 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• 8 oz linguine pasta
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich & Buttery Cowboy Sauce

Made with butter, garlic, herbs, and smoked paprika, this sauce infuses the dish with deep, savory flavors and a slight smokiness that sets it apart.

Protein-Packed & Satisfying

Lean, seared chicken breasts provide a hearty and flavorful base for this pasta dish.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner or a dish for guests, this recipe is simple yet elegant.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

2. Cook the Pasta

3. While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of pasta water for later.

3. Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce

4. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, parsley, and thyme, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
6. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and additional lemon juice, if needed.

4. Combine the Pasta and Chicken

7. Slice the cooked chicken breasts into thin strips.
8. Add the drained linguine to the skillet with the cowboy butter sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
9. Gently fold in the sliced chicken and stir to combine.

5. Serve and Enjoy

10. Divide the cowboy butter chicken linguine among plates and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
11. Garnish with additional parsley and thyme, and serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

• Use fresh herbs for the best flavor—dried herbs can be substituted but may slightly alter the taste.
• Don’t skip the pasta water—it helps create a silky, cohesive sauce that clings perfectly to the linguine.
• Try adding a dash of cayenne pepper if you enjoy a spicier kick.

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