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Looking for a quick and tasty meal? Let me introduce you to Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine! This dish combines rich flavors with simple ingredients for a weeknight dinner that everyone will love. You’ll learn all about how to make the star of the show, cowboy butter, and get tips to customize your meal. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and make your dinner a hit!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Cowboy Butter: This unique butter blend adds a rich and savory flavor to the dish, elevating simple chicken and pasta to something truly special.
- Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without hours in the kitchen.
- Colorful and Appealing: The vibrant colors from the cherry tomatoes and corn make this dish visually appealing, making it a hit at the dinner table.
- Versatile Ingredients: This recipe allows for substitutions, whether you want to use different vegetables or swap out the pasta type, making it adaptable to your pantry.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 chicken breasts, diced
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 4 tablespoons cowboy butter (made of:
– 1 stick unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon minced garlic
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– salt and pepper to taste)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Special Ingredients Explained
Cowboy butter is a key flavor in this dish. It is a simple mix of melted butter, garlic, and herbs. The smoked paprika adds a nice depth of flavor and a slight smokiness. The cayenne gives it a little kick, making each bite exciting. The lemon zest and juice add brightness, balancing the richness of the butter.
Substitutions for Dietary Needs
If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using chicken thighs instead of breasts. For a dairy-free version, replace the butter with olive oil and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. If you need it gluten-free, swap the linguine with gluten-free pasta. You can also add more veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrients.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Cowboy Butter
Start by melting one stick of unsalted butter in a small bowl. Add one tablespoon of minced garlic. Next, mix in one tablespoon of fresh parsley, one teaspoon of smoked paprika, and half a teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and set this cowboy butter aside.
Cooking the Linguine
Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add eight ounces of linguine pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. After cooking, drain the pasta and save half a cup of pasta water. Set both aside for later.
Cooking the Chicken
Heat a large pan over medium heat. Add two diced chicken breasts to the pan. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken pieces for about five to seven minutes until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked. Make sure the chicken is no longer pink inside.
Combining Ingredients
Once the chicken is cooked, add the cowboy butter you made earlier to the pan. Toss in one cup of halved cherry tomatoes and one cup of corn kernels. Add one teaspoon of lemon zest and one tablespoon of lemon juice. Stir the mixture and cook for another two to three minutes. You want the tomatoes to soften nicely.
Finishing Touches
Now it’s time to mix it all together. Add the drained linguine to the pan. Toss everything until the pasta is well coated. If the dish looks too dry, slowly add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Finally, stir in half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Plating the Dish
Serve the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in bowls. Garnish each bowl with fresh basil leaves. For an extra touch, sprinkle more grated Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy your tasty weeknight meal!
Tips & Tricks
How to Make Cowboy Butter at Home
To make cowboy butter, start with a stick of unsalted butter. Melt it in a bowl. Add one tablespoon of minced garlic. Then, include one tablespoon of fresh parsley. Next, add one teaspoon of smoked paprika and half a teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix it all well. This butter gives your dish a rich, bold flavor.
Cooking Pasta Perfectly
To cook linguine just right, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine pasta and stir to prevent sticking. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This means it should be firm but not hard. Save half a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water helps mix your sauce later.
Avoiding Overcooked Chicken
To avoid dry chicken, use diced chicken breasts. Heat a large pan over medium heat before adding the chicken. Season it with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Check that the chicken is fully cooked but still tender. This way, it stays juicy and flavorful.
Enhancing Flavor Profiles
To boost flavors in cowboy butter chicken linguine, add fresh ingredients. Use cherry tomatoes for sweetness and corn for crunch. Lemon zest and juice give a bright taste. You can also sprinkle Parmesan cheese for a savory kick. Fresh basil leaves add a nice touch as a garnish. Mix different flavors to make your dish shine!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and seasonal vegetables will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the cayenne pepper or omit it entirely.
- Save the Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is perfect for adjusting the sauce consistency without diluting the flavor.
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to substitute fresh parsley with basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile.

Variations
Vegetarian Version
You can easily switch this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine to a vegetarian meal. Instead of chicken, use diced mushrooms or chickpeas. Both options add great texture and flavor. Keep the cowboy butter mix the same for that rich taste. Add in some spinach or kale for extra nutrients. This version remains hearty and delicious.
Gluten-Free Options
For a gluten-free meal, swap the linguine with gluten-free pasta. Many options are available in stores. Make sure to check the ingredients to ensure they fit your diet. You can use rice noodles or zucchini noodles for a lighter dish. The cowboy butter will still give it that rich, tasty finish.
Adding Extra Vegetables
Boost your meal by adding more veggies. Try bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli. Just chop them up and toss them in with the chicken. Cook until they are tender and vibrant. These additions not only add color but also enhance the nutrition. You can mix and match based on your preferences.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine fresh, place leftovers in an airtight container. Allow the dish to cool before sealing it tightly. Store the container in the fridge for up to three days. This keeps the flavors intact and the dish safe to eat later.
Best Practices for Reheating
Reheat the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine on the stove for the best results. Add a splash of water or broth to the pan to prevent sticking. Heat over medium-low heat while stirring gently. This method helps keep the noodles from getting mushy. You can also use the microwave. Place the linguine in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it, and heat in short bursts. Stir between each burst for even warming.
Freezing Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
You can freeze your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine if you want to save it for later. Divide the dish into meal-sized portions and pack them in freezer-safe containers. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. The linguine can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This way, you enjoy a tasty meal without losing flavor.
FAQs
What is Cowboy Butter?
Cowboy butter is a tasty blend of melted butter, garlic, and spices. It adds a rich flavor to dishes. In this recipe, it includes parsley, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. This combination gives a unique kick to your meal. You can make it easily at home with simple ingredients.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use other pastas. While linguine works great, any long pasta fits well. Try spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne. Just keep an eye on cooking times. Each type might need a different time to cook until al dente.
How long does it take to make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?
This dish is quick to make. It takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend 15 minutes prepping and cooking. That makes it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
What can I serve with Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?
You can serve this dish with a fresh salad or garlic bread. A simple green salad adds crunch and freshness. Garlic bread pairs well for a hearty meal. Both options balance the rich flavors of the pasta.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, use more cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. You can also add sliced jalapeños for a fresh kick. Adjust the spice to your taste. Just remember, a little goes a long way!
You now have a complete guide to making Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. We covered the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking methods, and how to adjust for dietary needs. Remember to try the tips for perfecting each part. You can even explore fun variations to keep it fresh. Finally, store leftovers wisely and enjoy them later. With this knowledge, you can create a tasty dish that your family will love. Cooking should be fun, so enjoy every moment in the kitche
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
A delicious and creamy pasta dish featuring chicken, cowboy butter, and fresh vegetables.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 600 kcal
- 2 pieces chicken breasts, diced
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 4 tablespoons cowboy butter
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 2 grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 bunch fresh basil leaves for garnish
- 1 stick unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 2 cayenne pepper
- 1 to taste salt and pepper
Prepare the Cowboy Butter: In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Cook the Linguine: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
Combine Ingredients: To the pan with cooked chicken, add the cowboy butter, cherry tomatoes, corn, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften.
Mix it All Together: Add the cooked linguine to the pan, tossing it all together. If the mixture seems dry, gradually add reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Plate Up: Serve in bowls, garnished with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.
Feel free to adjust the spice level by modifying the cayenne pepper.
Keyword butter, chicken, pasta, quick meal
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