Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a rich, comforting pasta dish that brings together tender chicken, silky linguine, and a bold, buttery sauce packed with flavor. This recipe takes the popular cowboy butter concept and turns it into a cozy, family-friendly pasta dinner that feels special but is still easy enough for a busy weeknight.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
This Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine checks all the right boxes for a go-to dinner recipe. It is quick, satisfying, and full of bold flavors without being overwhelming. The creamy sauce coats every strand of pasta, while the seasoned chicken adds protein and heartiness.
You will also love how flexible this recipe is. You can adjust the spice level, swap in different pasta shapes, or add vegetables to make it your own. Best of all, it comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for nights when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients for Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
For the Pasta and Chicken
- 8 ounces linguine
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Creamy Cowboy Butter Sauce
- ½ cup cowboy butter, divided
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, or to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can replace half of the heavy cream with whole milk. The sauce will still be creamy but slightly less rich. For extra vegetables, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli florets.
If you need a dairy-free option, use a plant-based butter and full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream. The flavor will be different but still delicious and creamy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Linguine
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with paprika, garlic salt, kosher salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden on the outside and cooked through.
Step 3: Add the Cowboy Butter
Reduce the heat to medium. Add half of the cowboy butter to the skillet with the chicken. Stir until the butter melts and coats the chicken evenly. Let it cook for about 1 minute so the flavors blend.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet. Add the remaining cowboy butter and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir gently and let the sauce simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
If the sauce feels too thick, add a small splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked linguine directly to the skillet. Toss gently until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy cowboy butter sauce and the chicken is evenly distributed.
Step 6: Finish and Garnish
Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Pro Tips for Success
- Cut the chicken into even pieces so it cooks evenly and stays juicy.
- Do not overcook the pasta. Al dente pasta holds up better in creamy sauces.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt or spice as needed.
- Add pasta water a little at a time to control the sauce consistency.
- Let the dish rest for a minute before serving so the sauce thickens slightly.
Flavor Variations
- Garlic Lover’s Version: Add 2 minced garlic cloves to the skillet before pouring in the cream.
- Extra Spicy: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne.
- Veggie Boost: Stir in sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
- Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
- Herb Twist: Add fresh thyme or basil for a different herbal note.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine with a simple green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls make a great side to soak up the extra sauce. For a lighter pairing, roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans work beautifully.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
Freezing is not recommended, as creamy sauces can separate when thawed. If you do freeze it, reheat slowly while stirring to help restore the texture.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 620 |
| Protein | 38 g |
| Carbohydrates | 42 g |
| Fat | 34 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 720 mg |
FAQ About Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
What is cowboy butter?
Cowboy butter is a flavored butter made with herbs, spices, garlic, and citrus. It is known for its bold, savory taste and is often used as a sauce or finishing butter.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne all work well in this recipe. Choose a pasta that can hold onto the creamy sauce.
How do I keep the sauce from breaking?
Keep the heat at medium or lower when adding the cream. High heat can cause the sauce to separate.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the chicken and cook the pasta ahead of time. Store them separately and combine with the sauce just before serving.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, simply reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes to keep the flavors mild and family-friendly.
Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Equipment
- large pot
- large skillet
- colander
- wooden spoon or tongs
Ingredients
- 8 oz linguine
- 1 1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup cowboy butter, divided
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Toss the chicken with paprika, garlic salt, kosher salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Reduce heat to medium and add half of the cowboy butter to the skillet. Stir until melted and coating the chicken evenly.
- Add the heavy cream, remaining cowboy butter, and crushed red pepper flakes. Simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly thickened. Add pasta water if needed.
- Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss until fully coated in sauce and evenly mixed with the chicken.
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition
Final Thoughts
Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is the kind of recipe that feels comforting, indulgent, and reliable all at once. With its bold buttery flavor and creamy texture, it is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Whether you are cooking for family or guests, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
