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The Ultimate Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings together the richness of butter, the heartiness of chicken, and the comfort of pasta. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that combines the bold tastes of cowboy cuisine with Italian tradition, creating a comforting yet exciting dining option for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or impressing guests at a dinner party, this creamy linguine recipe is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.

Ultimate Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Discover the Ultimate Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, a delicious fusion of cowboy comfort and Italian tradition. This creamy linguine features tender chicken thighs enveloped in a rich, buttery sauce flavored with spices like smoked paprika and cumin. It's perfect for family gatherings or dinner parties, guaranteed to impress with its bold flavors and satisfying textures. Follow our step-by-step guide to create this unforgettable dish and elevate your culinary skills!

Ingredients
  

12 oz linguine pasta

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 jalapeño, minced (optional, for heat)

1 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp chili powder

1/2 tsp cumin

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/4 tsp salt (or to taste)

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

Juice of 1 lime

Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Cook the Linguine: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

    Prepare the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt 1/4 cup of the butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

      Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1/4 cup of butter. Once melted, add the chopped onion, diced red bell pepper, and minced jalapeño (if using). Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until the onions are translucent.

        Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cumin. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

          Create the Sauce: Lower the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and allow it to thicken slightly, about 3-4 minutes.

            Combine and Toss: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, along with the linguine. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the mixture seems too thick. Stir in the fresh parsley and lime juice, adjusting seasoning to taste.

              Serve: Divide the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine among plates. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with extra parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4