Description
A fast and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender chicken tossed with linguine in a rich cowboy butter sauce infused with garlic, lemon, Dijon, and herbs. Ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
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8 oz penne or linguine pasta
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into strips
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp paprika
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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4 tbsp unsalted butter
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tsp Dijon mustard
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Zest and juice of 1 lemon
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1/2 tsp smoked paprika
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1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
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1 tbsp chopped chives
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1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
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Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2–1 cup pasta water.
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In a skillet, heat olive oil. Season chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
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Melt butter in the same pan. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in Dijon, lemon zest and juice, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Add parsley and chives.
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Return chicken to the skillet. Add cooked pasta and toss everything together. Stir in Parmesan and enough pasta water to coat and create a glossy sauce.
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Serve immediately, garnished with herbs and extra cheese.
Notes
Make it creamy with a splash of heavy cream. Add spinach or tomatoes for color and nutrition. Leftovers reheat well with a splash of broth or water.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Pasta
- Cuisine: American Fusion, Weeknight Meals
Nutrition
- Calories: ~540 per serving