Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine for Busy Evenings

Name: Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine for Busy Evenings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz linguine; Salt, to taste; 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a delightful mix of tender chicken, buttery sauce, and linguine pasta, perfect for busy weeknights.

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2025-12-11T12:07:47.244Z

Gather your family around the table with this easy and delicious Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. It's a comforting dish that combines the flavors of cowboy butter with juicy chicken and perfectly cooked pasta.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy evenings
Rich and buttery flavor that satisfies your cravings
Great for the whole family, including picky eaters

      

A Quick Dinner Solution

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal can be challenging. This Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is designed specifically for those busy evenings when you crave something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal preparation and cooking time, this recipe allows you to whip up a satisfying dinner in just 30 minutes.

The combination of tender chicken, a rich buttery sauce, and perfectly cooked linguine makes this dish not only a time-saver but also a comforting classic that the whole family will enjoy. Whether you're coming home from work or juggling family activities, this meal can easily fit into your schedule.

Family-Friendly Flavors

One of the standout features of this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is its ability to please even the pickiest of eaters. The buttery sauce envelops the linguine and chicken, creating a rich, savory flavor that appeals to both children and adults alike. It's a fantastic way to introduce your family to new flavors while keeping the experience familiar and comforting.

By using simple ingredients that are often staples in many households, this recipe ensures that dinner is not only quick to prepare but also budget-friendly. Plus, you can easily modify the ingredients to suit your family's preferences or dietary needs, making it a versatile option for any dinner table.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you're looking to streamline your weekly meal planning, this Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is an excellent choice for meal prep. You can cook a larger batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. This allows you to enjoy a delicious homemade meal even on the busiest days without the need for takeout.

Simply reheat the pasta in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. This recipe also freezes well, making it a fantastic option for those who like to prepare meals ahead of time. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Ingredients

For the Linguine

8 oz linguine
Salt, to taste

For the Chicken

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
1/2 cup unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

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. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Season and Cook Chicken

Add the diced chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle with paprika, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.

Combine with Linguine

Add the cooked linguine to the skillet with the chicken. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the buttery sauce. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine!

Tips for Success

To ensure your linguine is cooked to perfection, always check the package instructions for cooking times. Cooking pasta al dente means it will have a slight bite to it, which helps it hold up better when tossed with the buttery sauce. Remember to save a little pasta water before draining; it can be a lifesaver for adjusting the sauce consistency if needed.

When seasoning the chicken, don’t hesitate to taste as you go. This helps you achieve the perfect balance of flavors. If you're a fan of spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mix for an extra kick!

Serving Suggestions

This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. You might also consider serving it with garlic bread to soak up the delicious buttery sauce, turning your dinner into a comforting feast.

For those who enjoy a bit of tang, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the finished dish can elevate the flavors even further. Garnishing with freshly chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of freshness that balances the richness of the butter.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute linguine with any pasta of your choice, such as spaghetti or fettuccine.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

You can use whole wheat pasta and reduce the amount of butter or use a healthier fat alternative.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve.

→ Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The flavors are mild and appealing to children, making it a great family meal.