Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days. The pasta may absorb some of the sauce so I like to add a spoonful of water or broth before reheating on the stove or in the microwave. For longer keeping freeze in a tightly wrapped container up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and stir well before serving again.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try swapping chicken for shrimp or cubed tofu both work beautifully with this sauce. Use any long pasta shape if linguine is not on hand. For dairy free use a rich plant cream and vegan butter. If you want to add more veggies toss in a few handfuls of baby spinach or halved cherry tomatoes in the last five minutes.
Serving Suggestions
This is a complete meal on its own but I love to serve it with a crisp green salad and crusty bread for scooping up extra sauce. For extra color try topping with roasted cherry tomatoes. A glass of chilled white wine next to your bowl brings out all the lemony buttery notes.
A plate of food with chicken and noodles.
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A plate of food with chicken and noodles. | lilicooks.com
Cultural and Historical Context
Cowboy butter is a playful take on the compound butters of French cuisine made popular in American steakhouses. Bringing those bold flavors to a pasta dish means you get a rustic but celebratory meal. The smoky paprika and melted butter remind me of open fire meals and cookouts on summer nights. It combines European technique and American spirit all in one plate.
Pro Tips
Always brown the chicken well for best flavor and color
Taste and adjust the sauce with lemon juice salt or more cheese to match your palate
Never skip the reserved pasta water it transforms the sauce from thick to silky
Recipe FAQs
→ What makes cowboy butter sauce unique?
The sauce combines butter, garlic, mustard, lemon juice, and spices for a rich, zesty flavor that complements both chicken and pasta.
→ Can I use another protein instead of chicken?
Yes, shrimp or tofu are excellent alternatives, offering different textures while still soaking up the bold sauce.
→ Is it possible to make the dish less spicy?
Cayenne and red pepper flakes can be reduced or omitted to suit your preferred spice level, making it mild and kid-friendly.
→ What type of pasta works best?
Linguine is ideal for holding the creamy sauce, though fettuccine or spaghetti also work well if you prefer another shape.
→ Are there recommended vegetables to add?
Feel free to toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or other quick-cooking vegetables to add color and nutrition to the dish.
→ How can I adjust sauce consistency?
Use some reserved pasta water to thin the sauce or simmer longer for a thicker texture until your satisfaction.
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Chicken and linguine tossed in rich cowboy butter sauce with garlic, lemon, and Parmesan. Dinner in 30 minutes.
Preparation Time
10 min
Cooking Time
20 min
Overall Time
30 min
Created By: Lili Clark
Category: Dinner
Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly
Cuisine Type: American
Output: 4 Serves
Dietary Options: ~
Ingredients
→ Main Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
8 oz linguine pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
→ Seasonings
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
→ Sauce Ingredients
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp lemon juice
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup chicken broth
¼ cup heavy cream
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
Steps
Boil linguine in salted water until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain.
Season chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Cook in olive oil until golden and fully cooked. Set aside.
Melt butter in the same skillet, add garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes. Let it simmer and thicken.
Add chicken and pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. Stir in Parmesan, parsley, and lemon juice. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
Garnish with additional parsley and Parmesan. Serve warm.
Tips
Can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu.
Add veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition.
Omit cayenne and red pepper flakes for less heat.
Required Tools
Large pot for pasta
Skillet or frying pan
Colander
Cutting board and knife
Allergy Information
Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
