Fast Dinner Recipes Pasta — creamy cowboy butter chicken linguine

Introduction

If you’re craving a quick pasta recipe that’s bold, buttery, and deeply satisfying, this Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is the perfect answer. It blends tender, seasoned chicken with silky linguine, all tossed in a rich cowboy butter sauce — full of garlic, herbs, lemon, and just a touch of spice.

This recipe is a creamy twist on the viral cowboy butter dipping sauce and turns it into a complete 30-minute dinner that’s cozy, rustic, and full of flavor. Ideal for busy weeknights, it’s a comforting pasta dish that feels both indulgent and effortless.

Ingredients Overview

This dish uses familiar pantry ingredients with a few fresh twists to elevate it into something special. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs – Either works; thighs stay juicier, while breasts are leaner.

• Simple Seasoning – Garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper bring balance and flavor.

Pasta:

• Linguine – Flat and long, ideal for capturing buttery sauce. Fettuccine or spaghetti work too.

• Pasta Water – Reserved to help emulsify and stretch the sauce.

Cowboy Butter Sauce:

• Butter – The base of the sauce; rich and golden.

• Garlic – Fresh, minced, and plenty of it.

• Lemon Juice & Zest – Brightens the richness.

• Dijon Mustard – Adds a gentle tang.

• Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, for subtle heat.

• Fresh Herbs – Chopped parsley and optional chives for freshness.

• Parmesan – Optional but delicious for added creaminess and depth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Boil the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

• Cook 12 oz linguine until al dente.

• Before draining, reserve 1 cup of pasta water.

• Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken

• Dice 1½ lbs chicken into bite-sized pieces.

• Season with:

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp paprika

  • Salt and pepper to taste

• Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

• Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.

• Remove from pan and set aside.

3. Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce

In the same pan:

• Melt ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter over medium heat.

• Add:

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon

  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes until aromatic.

4. Toss Together

• Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce.

• Stir to coat everything well, adding splashes of reserved pasta water until silky.

• Stir in:

  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

  • Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan

  • Optional: 1 cup baby spinach (add at the end to wilt gently)

5. Serve

• Plate hot and garnish with extra herbs, lemon zest, or Parmesan.

• Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh green salad.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Tips:

• Use fresh lemon zest to cut through the richness.

• Don’t skip pasta water — it binds the sauce beautifully.

• Let the chicken sear for golden flavor.

Variations:

• Add veggies – Spinach, arugula, or halved cherry tomatoes work great.

• Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood version.

• Creamier option – Add a splash of heavy cream or extra Parmesan.

Substitutions:

• Gluten-free? Use GF pasta.

• No Dijon? Use whole grain mustard or omit for a milder version.

• Lighter version? Use half the butter and add chicken broth for volume.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This pasta is perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners

• Casual date nights at home

• Meal prep for quick reheats

• Family meals — even picky eaters love it

Serve with:

• Garlic bread or cheesy toast

• Arugula or Caesar salad

• Lemon water or a chilled white wine

It’s hearty and flavorful without being too heavy — a comforting plate for any season.

Nutritional & Health Notes

This dish is:

• Protein-rich from chicken and cheese

• Satisfying and balanced with carbs, fats, and flavor

• Naturally nut-free and easily adaptable

For a lighter version:

• Use olive oil instead of butter for half the base

• Load up on spinach or arugula

• Use chickpea or lentil pasta for added fiber and protein

It’s a great way to bring comfort and ease into your dinner routine without overcomplicating things.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this dish ahead?

A1: Yes! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

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Q2: What kind of butter is best?

A2: Unsalted butter works best so you can control the salt level. For extra richness, try European-style butter.

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Q3: Can I add cream?

A3: Definitely! A few tablespoons of heavy cream or half-and-half will make the sauce even more luxurious.

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Q4: Is it spicy?

A4: Only mildly — red pepper flakes add a gentle heat. You can leave them out or add more for bolder spice.

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Q5: Can I use rotisserie chicken?

A5: Yes! Just shred it and warm it in the butter sauce before tossing with pasta.

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Q6: Can I freeze it?

A6: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. Reheat with a splash of water to revive the sauce.

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Q7: What pasta shapes work best?

A7: Linguine is perfect, but fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne also work great.

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