Description
This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a quick and flavorful pasta dish that combines tender strips of chicken with a rich, buttery garlic sauce infused with spicy paprika, thyme, and a touch of cayenne. Finished with fresh lemon juice and parsley, this hearty meal is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 1/4 cup butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta
- 8 oz linguine pasta
Finishing Touches
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Cook the chicken base: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned, releasing its aromatic flavor into the butter.
- Season and cook the chicken: Add the sliced chicken strips to the skillet. Sprinkle paprika, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 7-8 minutes until the chicken is browned on the outside and cooked through on the inside.
- Combine with pasta: Stir in the lemon juice to the skillet with the chicken, then add the drained linguine. Toss everything together thoroughly to coat the pasta with the flavorful buttery sauce and evenly distribute the chicken and spices.
- Garnish and serve: Transfer the pasta to serving plates and garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot to enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and fresh flavors.
Notes
- Ensure not to overcook the linguine to maintain a nice al dente texture.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts for a juicier texture.
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity to suit your desired spice level.
- For a richer sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or chicken broth when combining pasta.
- Fresh parsley adds a vibrant color and fresh taste but can be omitted if unavailable.
