Description
This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a rich and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender, buttery chicken breasts cooked to golden perfection and tossed in a creamy garlic and herb sauce with linguine. The addition of Italian herbs and a hint of red pepper flakes creates a deliciously balanced meal ready in just 40 minutes, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Butter
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pasta
- 8 oz linguine pasta
Sauce and Seasonings
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tsp Italian herb blend (oregano and basil)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust for spice level)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the linguine: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving some pasta water for later use.
- Sauté the chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken until golden brown, about 6-7 minutes per side, ensuring it is fully cooked through.
- Add garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Create the sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, then add the Italian herb blend and red pepper flakes. Stir thoroughly to combine and let the sauce simmer gently to meld the flavors.
- Combine: Add the drained linguine to the skillet and toss gently to coat the pasta with the sauce evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until the desired consistency is achieved.
- Finish: Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce. Serve the pasta immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on top, if desired.
Notes
- Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting quality.
- Reserve pasta water while draining linguine as it helps to loosen the sauce without diluting flavor.
- Ensure chicken breasts are cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) before serving.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
