Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a creamy, savory pasta dish packed with bold, zesty flavors. It features tender bites of seasoned chicken and al dente linguine tossed in a velvety cowboy butter sauce—a compound butter spiced with herbs, garlic, red pepper, and lemon for a warm, indulgent finish. I love how quickly it comes together and how every forkful delivers creaminess, spice, and satisfying comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this dish because it brings serious flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen. The cowboy butter sauce adds richness and complexity with just a few ingredients, while the cream smooths it out for a silky texture. It’s comforting, impressive enough for guests, and endlessly customizable. Whether I want a quick dinner or something crowd-pleasing for the weekend, this pasta always delivers.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the pasta

• linguine

For the chicken

• boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch bites
• extra virgin olive oil
• paprika
• garlic salt
• kosher salt
• black pepper

For the sauce

• cowboy butter (divided)
• heavy cream
• garlic salt
• crushed red pepper flakes
• lemon juice

For garnish

• lemon slices
• chopped parsley

Directions

1. I bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, cook the linguine until al dente, then drain and set it aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, I heat olive oil and add the chicken in a single layer. I season it with paprika, garlic salt, kosher salt, and pepper.
3. I cook the chicken for 3–4 minutes until golden, then add 2 tablespoons of cowboy butter. I flip the chicken and cook another 3–4 minutes until fully cooked.
4. I remove the chicken and cover it to keep warm.
5. I reduce the skillet heat to low and add the remaining cowboy butter, cream, garlic salt, and crushed red pepper flakes. I stir, scraping up the brown bits for extra flavor.
6. I return the cooked linguine and chicken to the skillet, toss everything to coat, and stir in the lemon juice.
7. I serve it warm, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• I add sautéed spinach or cherry tomatoes to brighten the dish and boost nutrition.
• I swap the chicken for shrimp or mushrooms for a different take.
• I adjust the heat level by adding more or less red pepper flakes or cayenne.
• I use fettuccine or penne in place of linguine when I want a heartier texture.
• I make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
Reheating: I reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing due to the cream, which can separate upon thawing.

FAQs

What is cowboy butter?

Cowboy butter is a seasoned compound butter made with garlic, herbs, lemon, and spices like paprika and cayenne. It’s usually used as a dip or spread but makes an amazing pasta sauce when melted with cream.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

I prefer to make it fresh, but I can prep the components in advance—cook the chicken and cowboy butter, then store everything separately and assemble when ready to eat.

Is it too spicy for kids?

Not necessarily. I reduce or omit the red pepper flakes for a milder version, and it still tastes rich and flavorful.

What vegetables go well in this dish?

I like to toss in bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, spinach, or even zucchini for more color and freshness.

Can I use store-bought cowboy butter?

Yes. If I don’t want to make it from scratch, I look for pre-made versions or mix softened butter with garlic, lemon juice, parsley, paprika, cayenne, and salt.

Conclusion

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is one of those dishes that hits every note: rich, creamy, zesty, and filling. It’s packed with flavor from the cowboy butter and balanced beautifully by the cream, herbs, and lemon. Whether I’m cooking for my family or making something quick and special for myself, this pasta never disappoints. It’s hearty, bold, and a guaranteed favorite in my dinner rotation.

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