If you are searching for a dish that brings bold, hearty flavors and creamy comfort to your dinner table, look no further than Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. This delightful recipe combines tender pieces of chicken with a rich, flavorful butter sauce infused with garlic, paprika, and just the right amount of kick from red pepper flakes. Tossed with perfectly cooked linguine and finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and Parmesan, it offers a satisfying meal with a perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and freshness that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on simple, straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the smoothness of butter to the tang of Dijon mustard and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes, every component enhances the final dish beautifully.

12 oz linguine: The pasta base that soaks up the rich sauce perfectly, providing a smooth texture and mild flavor to complement the chicken and spices.
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces): Tender protein that cooks quickly and absorbs the delicious Cowboy Butter sauce.
2 tbsp olive oil: Used to sauté the chicken to a golden-brown perfection while adding a fruity richness.
Salt & black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning both chicken and sauce, bringing out all the dish’s best flavors.
4 tbsp unsalted butter: The star of the Cowboy Butter sauce, delivering richness and smoothness.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant punch that deeply infuses the sauce.
1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Gives a subtle tang and depth, balancing the creamy richness.
1/2 tsp paprika: Adds smoky warmth and a beautiful color.
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste): Brings just the right spicy kick to awaken your palate.
1 tsp lemon juice: Brightens the sauce with citrus notes for a fresh finish.
1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates the luxuriously creamy texture that coats every strand of linguine.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for savory, cheesy goodness.
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Adds a burst of vibrant color and herbaceous flavor on top.

How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine according to the package instructions. This ensures the pasta is perfectly al dente, providing a firm yet tender bite. Once cooked, drain the linguine but save about half a cup of the pasta water before discarding the rest — this starchy water will be your secret ingredient to help adjust the sauce consistency later.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and black pepper, then sauté them until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust and are cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside—you’ll add it back in later to become perfectly coated in that rich sauce.

Step 3: Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce

Using the same pan, melt the unsalted butter and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for just a minute so the garlic releases its fragrant aroma without burning. Then stir in the Dijon mustard, paprika, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice. These ingredients combine to create the uniquely flavorful Cowboy Butter sauce that sets this dish apart.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Base

Pour the heavy cream into the pan and stir well to blend all the flavors smoothly. Slowly add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until it melts and the sauce becomes silky and luscious. This creamy base is what will cling to every piece of linguine and chicken, delivering that irresistible richness.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the Cowboy Butter sauce. Next, add the drained linguine and toss everything together gently. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach a silky, perfect consistency. This step lets the sauce beautifully coat the pasta strands and chicken pieces for a harmonious bite every time.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness. Serve immediately while warm and creamy for a truly comforting meal that captures the heart of rustic yet elegant cooking.

How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Garnishes

Fresh parsley isn’t just a pretty face—it adds a lively herbal lift that cuts through the rich sauce perfectly. A few extra Parmesan shavings or a zesty lemon wedge on the side can also enhance the flavor profile and make the dish shine on the table.

Side Dishes

Since the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is rich and filling, light and crisp sides work best. Consider a simple green salad with vinaigrette, roasted asparagus, or even garlic bread for an indulgent treat. These options provide texture contrasts and keep the meal well rounded.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, serve the linguine in individual shallow bowls and drizzle extra sauce over the top. Garnish with a sprig of parsley and a dusting of Parmesan. Alternatively, family-style plating in a large serving dish encourages sharing and creates a warm, inviting dinner atmosphere.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To prevent the pasta from drying out, make sure it’s well coated with the sauce before storing.

Freezing

While freezing is possible, the texture of the pasta may suffer upon thawing. If you choose to freeze, place the linguine and sauce in a freezer-safe container and use within two months for best quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce as needed. This will help revive the creamy texture and prevent the chicken or pasta from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?

Absolutely! While linguine is perfect for soaking up the sauce, you can use fettuccine, penne, or even spaghetti. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the pasta is al dente.

Is the sauce very spicy?

The sauce has a gentle kick thanks to the red pepper flakes, but you can easily adjust the amount to suit your taste, from mild to more fiery.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.

How do I ensure the chicken stays tender?

Be careful not to overcook the chicken—sauté it just until golden brown and cooked through. Cutting it into bite-sized pieces helps it cook evenly and remain juicy.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

You can make the Cowboy Butter Sauce ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked linguine and chicken before serving for maximum freshness.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, you’ll understand why it’s become a beloved favorite—combining the richness of butter, the zing of spices, and the comforting charm of creamy pasta all in one dish. It’s a recipe that’s both approachable and impressive, perfect for cozy weeknights or casual gatherings alike. So go ahead and treat yourself and your loved ones to its hearty, irresistible flavors; this meal promises to make your kitchen feel like home.

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 19 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Lactose

Print Recipe

Description

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a rich and flavorful pasta dish combining tender chicken pieces with a creamy, garlicky butter sauce laced with Dijon mustard, paprika, and red pepper flakes. This comforting meal is perfect for a hearty dinner and is elevated by the fresh parsley garnish and Parmesan cheese, delivering a deliciously balanced and silky sauce that clings beautifully to the linguine.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then set the pasta aside.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Sauté the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in Dijon mustard, paprika, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice, mixing thoroughly to blend the flavors.
Create the Creamy Base: Pour in the heavy cream while stirring to combine. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese melts smoothly into a creamy sauce.
Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the drained linguine. Toss everything together gently, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce and achieve a silky, cohesive texture that coats the pasta and chicken evenly.
Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle the dish with the chopped fresh parsley for a fresh finish. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your flavorful Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine.

Notes

Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
Reserving pasta water is crucial to adjust the sauce consistency.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and smooth sauce texture.
To make it lighter, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich.
Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a fuller meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing and Boiling
Cuisine: American