Juicy chicken and linguine tossed in a rich garlic-herb butter sauce make Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta a delightful meal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or preparing a quick weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress. Its creamy texture and bold flavors bring comfort to your table while being ready in just 30 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish takes only 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- Delicious Flavor: The garlic-herb butter sauce elevates the taste of both chicken and pasta, creating a comforting meal.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can adapt the recipe by adding seasonal veggies or using different types of pasta to suit your preferences.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this pasta dish satisfies even the pickiest eaters.
- Easy Cleanup: With minimal pots and pans used, you’ll spend more time enjoying your meal and less time cleaning up.
Tools and Preparation
To achieve the best results with your Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference. Here are some essential items that will assist you in the kitchen.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: A must-have for cooking chicken evenly and creating the rich butter sauce.
- Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures proper cooking of linguine while allowing you to reserve pasta water for making a creamy sauce.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing chicken and prepping ingredients efficiently.
Ingredients
Juicy chicken and linguine tossed in a rich garlic-herb butter sauce – a quick and cozy dinner that’s ready in 30 minutes!
For the Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
For the Pasta
- 8 oz linguine pasta
For the Sauce
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For Garnish
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
How to Make Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts:
1. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown.
2. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
3. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Boil the Linguine
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil:
1. Add linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain but reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet used for chicken, melt remaining 6 tablespoons butter over medium heat:
1. Add minced garlic, parsley, and thyme; sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice; stir to combine.
3. Simmer for 2-3 minutes; season to taste.
Step 5: Combine Pasta & Chicken
Slice cooked chicken into strips:
1. Add drained linguine to sauce; toss gently.
2. Add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired creaminess.
3. Fold in sliced chicken safely into the mixture.
Step 6: Serve
Serve hot topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and extra herbs if desired. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta!
How to Serve Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta
Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
With Fresh Herbs
- Chopped parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor.
- Thyme leaves: Add a few extra thyme leaves for an aromatic touch.
With Garlic Bread
- Crunchy garlic bread: Serve slices of warm garlic bread on the side for a perfect pairing with the creamy sauce.
- Cheesy garlic bread: Top with mozzarella for an extra cheesy delight.
With a Salad
- Caesar salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the richness of the pasta beautifully.
- Mixed greens salad: Lighten up the meal with a refreshing mixed greens salad topped with your favorite vinaigrette.
With Lemon Wedges
- Fresh lemon wedges: Offer wedges on the side to squeeze over the pasta for added brightness and zing.
As Leftovers
- Reheat gently: Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat on low to enjoy this dish again the next day!
How to Perfect Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta
To ensure your Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality chicken make a significant difference in flavor.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F; overcooked chicken can become dry.
- Reserve pasta water: This starchy water helps adjust the sauce consistency and adds creaminess.
- Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning throughout cooking to find the perfect balance of flavors.
- Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes helps meld all the flavors together before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: Roasted until crispy, this side adds a healthy crunch and flavor contrast.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing addition.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds elegance and pairs well with the creamy pasta.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until golden, these sprouts add texture and earthiness.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can balance out the rich flavors of the pasta while adding crunch.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms offer a tasty bite-sized treat that complements your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta even more delightful. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavor. Always season both sides with salt, pepper, and spices.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long makes it mushy. Follow package instructions for al dente texture.
- Neglecting to reserve pasta water: This water adds starchiness to the sauce, helping it cling to the pasta. Always save some before draining.
- Not slicing chicken properly: Cutting chicken into strips allows it to mix better with the pasta and sauce. Let it rest briefly before slicing.
- Using low-quality butter: The richness of this dish comes from good quality butter. Use unsalted butter for the best flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- item: Store in an airtight container.
- item: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta
- item: Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
- item: Consume within 2-3 months for best taste.
Reheating Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth in a skillet over medium heat, stirring until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta that may help you in your cooking journey.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! While linguine works great, feel free to substitute with fettuccine or penne for variety.
How can I make this dish healthier?
You can use whole wheat pasta and add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
What can I serve with Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas, and keep everything else the same.
Final Thoughts
The Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a perfect comfort food. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste!
Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a comforting dish that brings together juicy chicken and linguine in a luscious garlic-herb butter sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners, this recipe shines with its rich flavors and creamy texture, all ready in just 30 minutes. With the option to customize it with seasonal veggies or your favorite pasta type, it’s a versatile meal that caters to everyone’s taste buds. Serve it topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of indulgence.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and onion powder.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and cook chicken until golden brown (6-7 mins per side) and internal temp reaches 165°F. Remove from skillet.
- Boil linguine in salted water until al dente; reserve one cup of pasta water and drain.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic, parsley, and thyme in remaining butter for 1-2 mins. Add chicken broth and lemon juice; simmer for 2-3 mins.
- Toss cooked linguine into the sauce along with sliced chicken and reserved pasta water; mix until creamy.
- Serve hot with freshly grated Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 21g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
