Are you ready to dive into a bowl of pure comfort? Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a tasty dish that mixes juicy chicken with a rich, buttery sauce. In this post, I’ll share the full recipe and show you the easy steps to make it. Whether you want dinner for your family or a special treat for friends, this dish is sure to impress. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Complete List of Ingredients
– 12 oz linguine
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter (divided)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 3 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Key Ingredients Explained
– Linguine: This pasta type has a flat shape. It holds sauce well and works great with creamy dishes.
– Chicken Thighs: I prefer thighs for their juicy texture. They stay tender and flavorful when cooked.
– Unsalted Butter: This butter adds richness. Using unsalted helps control the dish’s saltiness.
– Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a strong flavor. It adds depth to the sauce and pairs well with butter.
– Smoked Paprika: This spice brings a warm, smoky taste. It adds a nice color and a hint of heat.
– Cayenne Pepper: A small amount boosts the heat. Adjust it based on your spice preference.
– Chicken Broth: This liquid adds flavor and moisture. It keeps the dish savory and rich.
– Heavy Cream: This cream thickens the sauce. It creates a smooth and luscious texture.
Suggested Brands or Specific Items
– Pasta: I recommend Barilla or De Cecco for quality linguine.
– Chicken: Look for organic or free-range chicken for better flavor.
– Butter: Kerrygold or Plugra are great options for rich, creamy butter.
– Spices: McCormick offers good-quality smoked paprika and cayenne pepper.
– Broth: Swanson or Pacific Foods have excellent chicken broth options.
For a full recipe, check out [Full Recipe].
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Linguine
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Make it salty, like the sea. Add 12 oz of linguine. Cook according to the package until it’s al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta. Remember to save 1/2 cup of that starchy water. It helps later!
Preparing the Chicken
In a big skillet, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium-high heat. When it foams, add 1 lb of chopped chicken thighs. Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes. Ensure the chicken is golden and reaches 165°F. Set the chicken aside on a plate.
Making the Cowboy Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the other 1/4 cup of butter until it melts. Toss in 4 cloves of minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until it smells good. Now, pour in 1/2 cup of chicken broth. Let it simmer, scraping any bits off the pan.
Combining Ingredients
Gradually mix in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir until the sauce thickens, around 3-4 minutes. If it’s too thick, add a bit of the saved pasta water. Now, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cooked chicken back. Stir gently until warmed through. Finally, fold in the cooked linguine. Toss everything until the pasta gets coated in that rich sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Spoon the linguine onto plates or into a serving dish. Top with sliced green onions and chopped parsley for color. Serve it with crusty bread and a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor. Enjoy your Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine! For detailed steps, check the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
How to Perfect the Sauce Consistency
To get the sauce just right, watch the heat. After you add the cream, lower the heat. Stir often. This helps the sauce thicken. If it gets too thick, use that reserved pasta water. Add a splash at a time until it’s smooth.
Cooking Chicken: Avoiding Common Mistakes
Cook the chicken in a hot skillet. This helps it brown nicely. Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you add too much chicken, it will steam instead of sear. Always check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should reach 165°F for safe eating.
Presentation Ideas for Serving
To make your dish look great, use a big bowl or plate. Add the linguine first, then top with chicken and sauce. Use cherry tomatoes for color. Finish with green onions and parsley. A sprinkle of extra herbs makes it pop. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
For the full recipe, check out the Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine guide.