Name: Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 breasts chicken (sliced into thin strips); 1 tbsp olive oil; 0.5 tsp paprika; 0.5 tsp garlic powder; 0.5 tsp salt; 0.25 tsp black pepper; 6 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 0.5 tsp smoked paprika; 0.5 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste); 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 lemon (juice and zest); 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped); 1 tbsp fresh chives (chopped); salt and pepper (to taste); 12 oz linguine; 0.5 cup reserved pasta water; Parmesan cheese (freshly grated, for topping)

When you crave something bold, flavorful, and soul-satisfying but don’t have hours to cook, this Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine comes to the rescue. This dish combines juicy chicken, perfectly cooked linguine, and a spicy cowboy butter sauce that packs a punch with garlic, lemon, paprika, chili flakes, and fresh herbs.

This recipe is a fusion of creamy pasta comfort and the zesty kick of cowboy butter — often used as a dipping sauce for steak or grilled meats. Here, it transforms into a luscious pasta sauce that coats every strand of linguine, making this the perfect weeknight dinner when you want something fast yet indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

Quick & Weeknight-Friendly: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
Big Flavor: Garlic, chili flakes, lemon, and paprika give the butter sauce a signature kick.
Versatile: Swap linguine for spaghetti, penne, or even zucchini noodles.
Protein Boost: Lean chicken makes it hearty and filling.
Restaurant Vibes at Home: Bold and indulgent without complicated steps.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

2 chicken breasts (sliced into thin strips)
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper

For the Cowboy Butter Sauce:

6 tbsp unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves (minced)
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp chili flakes (adjust to spice preference)
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
1 tbsp fresh chives (chopped)
Salt & pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

12 oz linguine
½ cup reserved pasta water
Freshly grated Parmesan (for topping)

Instructions

Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook linguine until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
Season & cook chicken: Toss chicken strips with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook in a skillet over medium heat until golden and fully cooked (6–8 minutes). Transfer to a plate.
Make cowboy butter sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic, paprika, and chili flakes, cooking until fragrant. Stir in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, zest, parsley, and chives. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine pasta & sauce: Add linguine and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss until coated.
Add chicken: Return chicken to the skillet, mixing until everything is evenly combined.
Finish & serve: Plate pasta, top with Parmesan and extra herbs, and serve hot.

Tips for Success

Spice Control: Reduce chili flakes if cooking for kids or spice-sensitive eaters.
Add Veggies: Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini pair beautifully here.
Creamier Option: Add a splash of heavy cream for a richer sauce.
Make it Steakhouse-Style: Swap chicken for steak strips for another twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with garlic bread or a simple green salad.
Pair with roasted vegetables for balance.
Chill leftovers and enjoy as a cold pasta salad the next day.