Indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of Quick and Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, where creamy butter meets tender chicken and vibrant spices. Picture this: a plate of luscious linguine, perfectly coated in a buttery sauce that dances on your taste buds while the aroma fills your kitchen, making everyone wonder what culinary magic is happening.

This dish is perfect for those hectic weeknights when you want to impress without breaking a sweat. It’s a flavorful escape that’s just as delightful served at a family dinner as it is during a casual night in with friends. Trust me, once you dig into this dish, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Quick and Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine makes meal prep an absolute breeze, ready in under 30 minutes
- The rich, buttery flavor matches well with the tender chicken and pasta
- Its vibrant colors will make your dinner table pop with visual appeal
- Versatile enough to be customized with whatever vegetables you have on hand
I still remember the first time I made this dish my friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was Their delighted expressions turned me into the culinary hero of the night.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts based on how many people you’re feeding they cook quickly and evenly.
- Linguine Pasta: A classic choice that holds onto the buttery sauce beautifully feel free to swap for gluten-free pasta if needed.
- Unsalted Butter: The star of our show, use high-quality butter for the best flavor profile.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic elevates the dish chop them finely to maximize their aromatic impact.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness don’t skip this vital garnish
- Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a little kick adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze of lemon brightens up flavors and balances out richness beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors use to taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Linguine: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add a generous pinch of salt before tossing in the linguine. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt half of your butter until bubbly. Add diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
Add Garlic: Toss in minced garlic during the last minute of cooking chicken. Stir continuously until fragrant, about 30 seconds your kitchen will smell divine
Make the Sauce: Reduce heat to low and add remaining butter alongside red pepper flakes and lemon juice. Stir until melted and combined with any leftover juices from cooking chicken.
Toss Everything Together: Drain linguine once cooked, reserving some pasta water. Add linguine directly into your skillet with sauce toss well to combine everything thoroughly. If too dry, add reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is achieved.
Add Fresh Parsley: Finally, sprinkle chopped parsley over your creamy linguine mixture for that fresh finish Serve immediately while hot for maximum enjoyment.
Now you’ve got yourself a plateful of Quick and Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine that’s sure to win hearts and stomachs alike Enjoy every bite you’ve earned it
You Must Know
- This Quick and Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine combines savory flavors with a creamy texture, making it a delightful meal
- Prepare for a culinary adventure that’s simple yet impressive, perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken in butter until golden brown, then cook pasta while the sauce simmers. This maximizes flavor and efficiency.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers. Customize based on your pantry
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to maintain creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For this scrumptious dish, always use fresh herbs for maximum flavor impact
- Avoid overcooking the pasta al dente is key
- Don’t forget to taste as you go seasoning is everything
The first time I made this dish, my friends couldn’t believe it was homemade they thought I had hired a chef
FAQ
What is Cowboy Butter?
Cowboy Butter is a flavorful compound butter made with garlic, herbs, and spices.
Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Absolutely Whole wheat pasta adds additional fiber and a nutty flavor to the dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra kick of heat in your linguine.

Quick and Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
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- Author: Ann Foster
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the rich, buttery goodness of Quick and Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. This delightful dish features tender chicken, perfectly cooked linguine, and a creamy garlic sauce that elevates any weeknight meal into a gourmet experience. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a visual feast that combines vibrant colors and mouthwatering flavors, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the linguine: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add linguine and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Sauté the chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, melt half the butter. Add seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic during the last minute of cooking until fragrant.
- Make the sauce: Reduce heat to low, add remaining butter, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice. Stir until melted.
- Combine: Drain linguine (reserve some pasta water), add to skillet, and toss everything together. If too dry, add reserved pasta water as needed.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 370g)
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 145mg