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If you're looking for a comforting and flavorful dish that can be prepared in a flash, look no further than Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. This delightful recipe brings together the best of both worlds: the hearty satisfaction of chicken and pasta, paired with a rich, buttery sauce that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this dish is designed to impress without demanding hours in the kitchen.

Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Discover the deliciousness of Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, a quick and flavorful dish that's perfect for any weeknight dinner! This recipe features tender chicken thighs sautéed in a rich, buttery garlic sauce, tossed with al dente linguine and fresh parsley. With hints of smoked paprika and zest from lemon, it's sure to impress! Ready in just 30 minutes, serve it up with cherry tomatoes and Parmesan for extra flair! Perfect for the whole family!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz linguine pasta

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

1/2 cup salted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

1/2 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp dried thyme

1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Salt and pepper, to taste

Juice of 1 lemon

1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)

Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

    Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, and thyme.

      Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup of the butter. Once melted, add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

        Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1/4 cup of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

          Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet along with the cooked linguine. Toss everything together, adding lemon juice, chopped parsley, and halved cherry tomatoes if using. Gradually pour in some of the reserved pasta water to help combine the sauce and create a smooth consistency.

            Serve: Remove from heat, taste, and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with more parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4