Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

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Creamy, bold, and packed with sizzling buttery flavor, Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a dish that brings restaurant-quality indulgence right to your kitchen. Imagine juicy seared chicken tenderloins coated in a zesty cowboy butter sauce nestled over a bed of silky linguine. It hits every flavor note—garlicky, buttery, herby, with a whisper of heat—perfect for weeknight comfort or a special weekend treat.

This recipe brings together the satisfying depth of grilled chicken with the luxurious embrace of a rich, butter-forward sauce. Infused with garlic, lemon, Dijon, and a punch of smoked paprika, each bite delivers a creamy tang balanced with just enough spice. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to whip up.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Chicken tenderloins or boneless skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. They cook quickly and remain juicy when seared. If you prefer dark meat, boneless chicken thighs also work beautifully, offering extra richness that pairs well with the cowboy butter.

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Ingredients for the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Chicken Tenderloins – The star of the show. They cook evenly, stay tender, and soak up the cowboy butter sauce beautifully.

Linguine Pasta – Its smooth texture and flat surface allow it to hold onto the creamy butter sauce perfectly.

Unsalted Butter – Forms the base of the cowboy butter, giving the sauce its silky richness.

Garlic – Freshly minced garlic adds depth and an aromatic backbone to the sauce.

Dijon Mustard – Provides a zippy sharpness that cuts through the butter for balance.

Smoked Paprika – Adds warmth and a slight smoky undertone that enhances the dish.

Red Pepper Flakes – For just a touch of heat, making each bite exciting without overwhelming the palate.

Fresh Parsley – Brightens the dish and adds a fresh, herbaceous finish.

Lemon Juice – Helps balance the richness of the butter with its tangy brightness.

Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the sauce.

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How To Make the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken tenderloins with salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika. Heat a bit of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown and fully cooked, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cowboy Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add unsalted butter and let it melt gently. Stir in minced garlic, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the garlic is fragrant, about 1–2 minutes. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and stir until the sauce emulsifies and becomes slightly creamy.

Step 3: Cook the Linguine

While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine according to package directions. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the cowboy butter sauce over it. Add in the cooked linguine and toss gently to coat. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finish with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot, with extra lemon wedges or a dash of grated Parmesan if desired.

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Serving and Storing Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

This dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh from the skillet. Serve it with a side salad or a slice of garlic bread to round out the meal. If you’re planning a dinner party or want to prep ahead, you can make the cowboy butter sauce in advance and store it separately.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to bring back the saucy texture. Avoid microwaving the chicken too long to keep it from drying out.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this dish?

The heat is very mild, just enough to bring warmth. You can add more red pepper flakes if you like it spicier or omit them for a gentler flavor.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne can work just fine. The key is using a pasta that holds sauce well.

What is cowboy butter?

Cowboy butter is a zesty, herby compound butter often used as a dipping sauce or to top grilled meats. This version turns it into a luscious pasta sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the sauce and even cook the chicken ahead of time. Just store them separately and combine when reheating.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes! It has enough richness to appeal to all ages. Just reduce or skip the pepper flakes if you’re cooking for little ones.

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely. Try tossing in some sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli to make it even heartier.

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Want More Dinner Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, you’ll probably enjoy these other flavorful favorites:

• Garlic Parmesan Beef Spaghetti Pasta with a cheesy garlic kick.
• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine for a citrusy twist.
• One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese for a comforting, cheesy mash-up.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini packed with rich, saucy goodness.
• One Skillet Sweet & Spicy Sticky Chicken Pasta for those who love a bold flavor punch.

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