Chicken Linguine with Cowboy Butter is the dish that makes your taste buds do a happy dance. Picture this: perfectly cooked linguine, tender chicken, and a buttery sauce that’s packed with flavor, just waiting to be devoured. savory butter chicken dish The aroma wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in a warm hug, making it hard to resist sneaking a bite before dinner even starts. chicken sausage and orzo.
I remember the first time I made Chicken Linguine with Cowboy Butter; it was a chaotic weeknight, and my family’s grumbling stomachs led me to whip up something quick yet delightful. As I stirred the rich sauce, laughter filled the kitchen as my kids fought over who would get the biggest portion. chicken in cream sauce This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at your next gathering—prepare for an unforgettable flavor experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chicken linguine with cowboy butter offers an easy preparation process that’s perfect for busy weeknights
- The rich flavors and creamy texture create an irresistible dish
- Visually appealing with its vibrant colors, it’s sure to impress
- Versatile enough for any occasion, it can easily become your go-to meal
I can still hear my friend exclaiming how my Chicken Linguine with Cowboy Butter was “life-changing” during our last dinner party.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts depending on how many you’re feeding; they cook evenly and soak up all the flavor.
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Linguine Pasta: Opt for fresh linguine if possible; it cooks quickly and adds a delightful texture. For more inspiration, check out this creamy pasta dishes recipe.
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Butter: Choose unsalted butter for better control over the seasoning; it’s the star of the show.
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Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings an aromatic punch; avoid pre-minced varieties for maximum flavor. perfect side of garlic bread.
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Fresh Parsley: Use chopped parsley as a garnish; it adds color and freshness to the dish.
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Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the flavors beautifully; skip bottled juice for best results.
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Parmesan Cheese: Grate your own cheese for a richer taste; sprinkle generously over each serving.
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Cayenne Pepper: Just a pinch adds warmth without overwhelming the dish; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
Prepare the Chicken: While pasta cooks, season boneless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper for additional flavor. Sear them in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and cooked through—about 6-7 minutes per side. For more inspiration, check out this chicken and pasta recipes recipe.
Sauté Garlic in Butter: In another pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic once melted and sauté until fragrant—about 1 minute—being careful not to let it burn.
Add Flavorful Elements: Stir in lemon juice and chopped parsley into the garlic butter mixture. This will give your sauce a fresh kick that complements every bite.
Toss Everything Together: Combine cooked linguine with the sautéed chicken in the skillet with garlic butter sauce. Toss well until everything is coated evenly and heated through—this should take about 2-3 minutes.
Serve and Enjoy!: Plate your Chicken Linguine with Cowboy Butter generously topped with grated Parmesan cheese and extra parsley for garnish. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy every forkful!
You Must Know
- This Chicken Linguine with Cowboy Butter transforms dinner into a flavor-packed adventure
- The buttery sauce brings richness, while the linguine serves as the perfect canvas for deliciousness
- Share it with friends, and watch them swoon over this delightful dish
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken to lock in juices, then cook linguine while preparing the cowboy butter sauce. This sequence ensures a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or add veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition. Customize it to fit your taste preferences.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Searing chicken on high heat creates a delicious crust that locks in moisture
- Always taste your sauce before serving to adjust seasoning as needed
- Fresh herbs can elevate the dish’s flavor profile significantly
Sharing this recipe at a family gathering turned into my personal cooking triumph, as everyone asked for seconds, proving that cowboy butter is indeed magic in a pan.

FAQ
What is cowboy butter?
Cowboy butter is a rich, flavorful sauce made with butter, garlic, and spices that enhances any dish.
Can I use whole wheat linguine?
Yes, whole wheat linguine offers a healthier option without sacrificing flavor in this recipe.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Cook chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure safety and tenderness.
Chicken Linguine with Cowboy Butter
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken Linguine with Cowboy Butter is a delightful dish that elevates your weeknight dinners into a flavor-packed experience. This recipe combines perfectly cooked linguine, tender chicken, and a rich buttery sauce infused with garlic and lemon, making every bite a celebration of taste. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
- 8 oz fresh linguine pasta
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves minced garlic
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot and cook linguine until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- 2. Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and cayenne. Sear in a skillet over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- 3. Sauté Garlic in Butter: In another pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- 4. Add Flavorful Elements: Stir in lemon juice and chopped parsley into the garlic butter mixture.
- 5. Toss Everything Together: Combine cooked linguine with the sautéed chicken and garlic butter sauce in the skillet. Toss until evenly coated (2-3 minutes).
- 6. Serve: Plate the dish topped with grated Parmesan cheese and extra parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 130mg





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