Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine combines juicy chicken, buttery garlic sauce, and tender pasta into one irresistible meal. Quick and full of bold flavor, it’s perfect for beginners wanting a creamy, comforting dinner.
Ingredients
- 8 oz linguine
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small shallot, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes adjust to taste
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- Optional: grated Parmesan for garnish
Instructions
- Cook linguine in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook with olive oil for 5–6 minutes per side. Set aside and slice.
- In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and shallot, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in lemon juice, zest, red pepper flakes, parsley, and thyme. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Add cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss until well coated.
- Add sliced chicken back into the skillet and combine everything evenly.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot with fresh parsley or Parmesan.
Notes
Use freshly squeezed lemon juice to brighten the cowboy butter sauce. For a twist, swap chicken for shrimp or add a splash of cream for extra richness.