Are you looking for a delicious, easy-to-cook recipe that adds a southwestern flair to your pasta night? Look no further! In this blog post, we’ll dive into the mouthwatering world of Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, a dish that combines tender chicken, creamy butter sauce, and al dente linguine into an unforgettable meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or dinner parties, this recipe checks all the boxes for flavor, simplicity, and satisfaction.
Let’s explore how you can whip up this delightful dish that will impress your family and friends. Get ready for a tasty adventure that encourages you to roll up your sleeves and enjoy some cooking, let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Imagine a creamy, buttery sauce infused with the flavors of the Southwest, what’s not to love? Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is comfort food at its finest, and here are a few reasons why you’ll want to add it to your recipe collection:
- Easy and Quick: This dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or when unexpected guests arrive.
- Affordable Ingredients: Made with simple, budget-friendly ingredients, you won’t have to break the bank to whip this up.
- Beginner-Friendly: Even if you’re just starting in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and guides you through each step.
So, if you’re looking for a straightforward yet utterly delicious meal, keep reading!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine:
- 8 oz linguine: The perfect pasta for creamy sauces.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and flavor to the dish.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Tender and flavorful, chicken thighs stay juicy when cooked.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Packs a flavor punch.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the creamy base for the sauce.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds depth and moisture.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Brings a savory umami flavor to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds color and a hint of smokiness.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
These simple components bring together an incredible dish that’s easy to make and hard to resist.
Equipment
Before you begin cooking, it’s helpful to have the right tools on hand. Here are the essentials you’ll need for this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine:
- Large pot: For boiling the pasta.
- Skillet: To prepare the chicken and sauce.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring.
- Meat thermometer (optional): To ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly.
While you may not need any fancy gadgets, having these basics will streamline your cooking process.
Step-by-Step Process
1. Cook the Linguine
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken
In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
3. Add Garlic
Once the chicken is nearly done, add minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
4. Create the Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well. Add Worcestershire sauce and mix to combine. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.
5. Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing until the noodles are fully coated in the creamy sauce.
6. Serve Hot
Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs or grated parmesan if desired.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
- Tip for Tender Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure that chicken is cooked perfectly without drying out.
- Common Mistake: Avoid overcooking the linguine; it should be firm to the bite (al dente) when drained.
- Make it Spicy: If you enjoy a little heat, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes while cooking the garlic.
With these pro tips, you’ll nail this dish every time!
Serving Suggestions
Looking for the best ways to enjoy your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine? Here are a few ideas:
- Side Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad drizzled with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic Bread: Pair with warm garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce.
- Zero-Waste Leftovers: Use any remaining chicken and sauce in a wrap or as a flavorful topping for baked potatoes.
These variations allow you to explore different culinary ideas while making the most of this recipe.
Storage
To keep your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine fresh, store leftovers properly. Here are some tips:
- Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out.
By following these storage tips, you can enjoy this dish multiple times!
Nutrition
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is not just delicious; it also offers some great nutritional benefits, including:
- Protein-Packed: With chicken as the star ingredient, this dish is rich in protein, supporting muscle repair and growth.
- Good Fats: The heavy cream provides a source of essential fatty acids.
- Versatile: You can easily modify the recipe to include veggies for added fiber and vitamins.
Enjoy the rich flavors while maintaining a balanced diet!
FAQs
Can I use shrimp instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Shrimp can be a great alternative that cooks quickly but be sure to adjust your cooking time accordingly.u003cbru003e
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute linguine with a gluten-free pasta.u003cbru003e
Can I freeze the leftovers?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, leftover Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine can be frozen. Just be mindful that the texture of the sauce may change upon reheating.
How spicy is this dish?
The recipe is fairly mild but you can easily add more paprika or red pepper flakes for additional heat.u003cbru003e
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking to lighten it up, consider using half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative, although the sauce’s consistency may vary.
Conclusion
In summary, Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is more than just a meal, it’s an experience you can create in under 30 minutes! Its rich flavors, easy preparation, and versatility make it a must-try recipe for any home cook. So why not gather your ingredients and give it a go? We guarantee your family will rave about it, and you might find yourself coming back for seconds.
Don’t miss out on this culinary adventure, click over to try the recipe or browse for more delicious dinner ideas today!

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
- Once the chicken is nearly done, add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well. Add Worcestershire sauce and mix to combine. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing until the noodles are fully coated in the creamy sauce.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs or grated parmesan if desired.
