Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

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Imagine a dish that combines the bold, zesty flavors of cowboy butter with tender, juicy chicken and perfectly cooked linguine. This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a hearty and irresistible dinner that feels both comforting and adventurous. The silky sauce clings to each strand of pasta while bits of garlicky, herby buttered chicken peek through, making every bite rich with flavor.

This recipe brings together the essence of a ranch-inspired cowboy butter — loaded with garlic, herbs, and a touch of heat — and pairs it with the elegance of linguine. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or indulge on a quiet evening at home, this dish is easy enough to whip up on a weeknight yet special enough to serve on a weekend.

Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

The combination of buttery richness with just the right amount of spice and fresh herbs makes this pasta unforgettable. The chicken stays moist and flavorful thanks to the cowboy butter, while the pasta absorbs all those delicious juices. It’s a one-pan kind of comfort food that doesn’t skimp on sophistication.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best With Cowboy Butter Chicken?

Linguine is ideal here because it strikes a balance between delicate and hearty, holding up well to the robust sauce. You could also try this with fettuccine or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand — just be sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t get weighed down by the sauce.

Ingredients for the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

To bring this flavorful pasta dish to life, you’ll need just a handful of fresh, quality ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the savory, buttery, slightly spicy sauce that makes this recipe unforgettable. The star of the show is the cowboy butter — so don’t skimp on the garlic or herbs!

• Linguine – This pasta provides the perfect texture and surface to hold onto the sauce.
• Chicken breasts – Lean, tender chicken adds protein and pairs beautifully with the cowboy butter.
• Unsalted butter – The base of the cowboy butter, rich and creamy.
• Garlic cloves – Adds a punchy, aromatic flavor essential to cowboy butter.
• Fresh parsley – Brightens up the dish with freshness and color.
• Red pepper flakes – For a subtle heat that warms each bite.
• Lemon juice – Brings acidity and balance to the rich butter.
• Salt and pepper – To season the chicken and sauce perfectly.

How To Make the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine according to package directions, until just al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about a half cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare the Cowboy Butter

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Stir in the chopped parsley, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice. Remove half of the cowboy butter to a small bowl and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In the same skillet with the remaining cowboy butter, cook the chicken over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and slice into strips.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Return the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss it in the reserved cowboy butter. Add a splash of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Top with sliced chicken and a sprinkle of extra parsley for garnish. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve and Store Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is best served straight from the skillet while it’s hot, buttery, and fragrant. It makes a generous meal that can easily feed 4 people, perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering with friends. Garnish with a little extra fresh parsley and maybe a squeeze of lemon just before serving to keep it bright and inviting.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce as it can thicken when chilled.

What to Serve With Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?

Garlic Bread

A slice of warm, crusty garlic bread is the ultimate companion to soak up all that flavorful sauce.

Simple Green Salad

A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta beautifully.

Roasted Asparagus

Tender roasted asparagus spears add a touch of elegance and a pop of color to your plate.

Classic Caprese Salad

The fresh tomatoes and mozzarella of a caprese salad bring a refreshing contrast to the buttery pasta.

Grilled Zucchini and Squash

Seasonal grilled vegetables lend a smoky note that works wonderfully alongside the linguine.

Lemon Butter Salmon

For a surf-and-turf dinner, pair with creamy lemon butter salmon for an indulgent twist.

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta

If serving a crowd, consider making a second pasta dish like creamy tomato spinach pasta to offer variety.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, you’ll probably enjoy these other comforting pasta dishes:

• Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for a tangy, creamy, and veggie-packed option.
• One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni when you crave a hearty, meaty sauce.
• Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon for a zesty seafood pasta twist.
• Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl if you like your pasta with tender, flavorful meatballs.
• Delicious Ooey Gooey Mac and Cheese when you’re in the mood for pure cheesy indulgence.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you make it spicier? Try it with shrimp instead of chicken? Share your delicious twists — I’d love to hear how you made it your own.

Explore beautifully curated dinner and pasta recipes on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next crave-worthy creation!

Conclusion

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is the perfect marriage of rustic flavors and refined pasta. From the garlicky, herb-flecked butter to the tender chicken and perfectly cooked noodles, this dish is as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Try it tonight and bring a little ranch-inspired charm to your dinner table.

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