Creamy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe

Are you ready to elevate your pasta game with a dish that’s sure to impress? Look no further than this delectable recipe for Tasty Butter Chicken Linguine. Combining golden-brown chicken, perfectly cooked linguine, and a buttery sauce with a kick, this dish strikes the perfect balance between comforting and sophisticated.

The secret ingredient that takes this dish to the next level is cowboy butter – a flavorful blend that transforms ordinary chicken and pasta into something extraordinary. As the chicken drippings mingle with the cowboy butter and cream, they create a luscious sauce that’s rich yet light, creamy yet refreshing.

Whether you’re looking to dazzle your dinner guests or simply treat yourself to a restaurant-worthy meal at home, this Tasty Butter Chicken Linguine is sure to hit the spot. With a few simple ingredients and some clever tips for prep and cooking, you’ll have a memorable dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. So, get ready to savor every bite of this mouthwatering creation that’s bound to become a family favorite in no time.

Quick Benefits

• Elevates basic kitchen staples into a fancy, sophisticated dinner
• Rich, creamy sauce with a kick from cowboy butter and cream
• Versatile recipe that can be customized with seasonal add-ins
• Easy to prep ahead for quick dinner assembly

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe Recipe

• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of golden-brown chicken, buttery sauce, and perfectly cooked linguine creates a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated.
• Impressive Yet Easy: Guests will be impressed by the fancy appearance and delicious taste of this dish, yet it comes together with simple ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques.
• Versatile and Adaptable: This recipe can be easily customized with seasonal ingredients or adjusted to suit different tastes and spice levels, making it perfect for accommodating various preferences.
• Make-ahead Friendly: With the option to prep components in advance, such as freezing cowboy butter or marinating chicken ahead of time, dinner assembly becomes quick and convenient, ideal for busy days or unexpected guests.
• Restaurant-quality Dining at Home: By serving this dish alongside a simple salad and crusty bread, you can create a dining experience that feels like eating out at a restaurant without the stress or last-minute rush.
• Enhanced by Fresh Ingredients: The recipe allows for creative variations throughout the year by incorporating seasonal produce like cherry tomatoes, basil, mushrooms, sage, butternut squash, asparagus, or peas, keeping the meal fresh and exciting.
• Family-friendly and Crowd-pleasing: Easily adaptable for different preferences, such as omitting red pepper flakes for kids or setting aside plain portions for picky eaters, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this delicious meal together.

Ingredients for Creamy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces linguine

For the Chicken

• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, chopped into 1-inch chunks
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• ½ teaspoon garlic salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

For the Sauce

• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• ½ teaspoon lemon juice
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup (4 tablespoons) cowboy butter, split in half
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt

Garnish

• Lemon slices
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Pro Tips for Creamy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe

Pro Tip 1: To achieve golden-brown chicken pieces, make sure not to overcrowd the pan when cooking. If needed, cook the chicken in batches to allow each piece to develop a perfect crust.

Pro Tip 2: For quick dinner assembly, prepare components ahead of time. Freeze cowboy butter in individual tablespoon portions for easy use. Marinate chicken in olive oil and spices in advance for enhanced flavor. By having these elements ready, you can whip up this fancy meal in just 15 minutes of actual cooking time.

Pro Tip 3: Customize this recipe with seasonal ingredients for a fresh twist. Add halved cherry tomatoes and basil in summer, sautéed mushrooms and sage in fall, roasted butternut squash in winter, and tender asparagus tips and fresh peas in spring. The basic recipe pairs well with these seasonal variations, adding a touch of freshness and creativity to your dish.

How to Make Creamy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, boil water with salt. Cook linguine until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken pieces in the skillet, season with paprika, garlic salt, kosher salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer chicken to a plate, cover with foil.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Reduce skillet heat to low. Add remaining cowboy butter, heavy cream, garlic salt, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir to melt butter and create a smooth mixture, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Return cooked linguine and chicken to skillet. Toss to coat with sauce. Add lemon juice. Serve hot topped with lemon slices and parsley.

Storage Tips

To store the finished Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, ensure it has cooled to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Place the container in the refrigerator and consume the leftovers within 3-4 days for the best quality and taste. When reheating the dish, you may need to add a splash of cream or a drizzle of olive oil to refresh the sauce and prevent the dish from drying out.

If you have made a larger batch of the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine and want to freeze some for later enjoyment, you can do so by placing the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Properly sealed, the frozen dish should maintain its quality for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then gently warm it in a pan on the stovetop, adding a little cream or butter as needed to restore the creamy texture. By storing and reheating the dish correctly, you can continue to enjoy the flavors of this delicious meal even on busy days.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need to make ingredient substitutions for this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine recipe, there are a few options you can consider. For a lighter version, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Chicken thighs tend to be more flavorful and juicy, adding a different dimension to the dish. Additionally, if you prefer a different type of pasta or have a gluten intolerance, you can swap the linguine for a gluten-free pasta or even try it with spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash for a low-carb alternative.

If you don’t have cowboy butter on hand or prefer a different flavor profile, you can substitute it with compound butter of your choice. Make your own by combining softened butter with herbs, spices, and garlic. This allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. You can also use a combination of regular unsalted butter and additional spices like smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and dried herbs to add depth and flavor to the dish. These substitutions can help tailor the recipe to your preferences or dietary needs while still maintaining the essence of the flavorful dish.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation of this Tasty Butter Chicken Linguine, consider serving it in individual mini cast-iron skillets. Not only does this add a charming rustic touch to the dish, but it also keeps the linguine warm throughout the meal. Top each skillet with a slice of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

For a family-style serving option, transfer the Tasty Butter Chicken Linguine to a large serving platter and garnish with additional cowboy butter slices. Place lemon slices and fresh parsley around the edges of the platter for a vibrant and inviting presentation. This shared dish encourages guests to dig in and enjoy the flavors together, creating a cozy and communal dining experience.

FAQs for Creamy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can absolutely use a different type of pasta if you prefer. Linguine works well with this dish, but you can try it with spaghetti, fettuccine, or any other pasta shape you like.

What can I substitute for cowboy butter if I can’t find it?

If you can’t find cowboy butter, you can make a similar version by mixing softened butter with garlic powder, dried parsley, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt. This homemade version will still add that flavorful kick to the dish.

How can I adjust the spice level of this dish?

If you prefer a milder dish, you can skip the crushed red pepper flakes or reduce the amount added. You can also taste the sauce as you cook and adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences.

Can I make this dish ahead of time and reheat it later?

This dish is best served fresh to maintain the ideal texture of the pasta and chicken. However, you can prepare the components ahead of time and quickly assemble and cook the dish when ready to eat. Avoid overcooking the pasta when reheating to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Conclusion

As you wrap up your culinary journey with the delectable Tasty Butter Chicken Linguine, remember that the magic in cooking often lies in those unexpected moments of improvisation and creativity. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, this dish has the power to elevate any occasion with its rich flavors and comforting allure.

So, gather your ingredients, fire up your stovetop, and dive into the world of Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. Let the aroma of sizzling chicken and buttery goodness fill your kitchen, creating an atmosphere of warmth and anticipation. And remember, each time you recreate this recipe, you have the opportunity to add your unique touch and make it truly your own. Here’s to many more delicious adventures in the kitchen with the ever-delightful Tasty Butter Chicken Linguine!