Description
This Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta combines juicy chicken with a rich, creamy sauce made with smoked paprika, garlic, and butter, creating the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and onion powder. In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the chicken broth, fresh thyme, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and lemon juice. Stir to combine.
- Combine: Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips. Add the cooked linguine and chicken slices to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the buttery sauce.
- Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute the chicken with shrimp for a seafood version of this dish.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes depending on how spicy you like your food.
- For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of cream to the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American