Description

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a decadent, creamy pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, garlicky butter sauce. The perfect balance of flavors from Dijon mustard, fresh thyme, and lemon zest creates a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent.

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

8 oz linguine pasta

1/4 cup unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Zest of 1 lemon

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Instructions

Cook the linguine according to the package instructions. After draining, set it aside, but reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use.
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, paprika, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the cooked linguine and chicken back to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce. Add some reserved pasta water if necessary to thin the sauce and coat everything evenly.
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and fresh parsley. Toss quickly and serve warm.

Notes

Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Spicy Kick: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.

Lighter Version: Use olive oil instead of butter and whole wheat pasta for added fiber.

Creamy Version: Add heavy cream or cream cheese for a richer sauce.

Cheese Variations: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or a mix of cheeses for a different flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Pasta
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 650
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 100mg