The idea for this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine came to me after a backyard cookout when I had some leftover grilled chicken and a craving for something creamy and comforting so I tossed it with linguine and whipped up a quick cowboy butter sauce that’s rich with garlic lemon and a hint of spice. It only took one bite to know I had found something worth repeating because the buttery sauce clung to every strand of pasta while the chicken soaked up all that bold flavor.

Now I make this dish whenever I want a dinner that feels indulgent but still easy to pull together because it’s got just the right balance of smoky garlicky and creamy all in one bowl. Whether you use grilled or pan-seared chicken the results are always satisfying and it’s one of those meals that tastes like a Southern-style hug on a plate.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
Linguine – A long pasta that holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully
Chicken breasts – Pan-seared or grilled for juicy protein and savory depth
Garlic – Adds boldness and signature cowboy butter flavor
Butter – The base of the sauce that makes everything rich and silky
Lemon juice – Brightens the sauce and balances the butter
Dijon mustard – Adds tang and a subtle sharpness
Red pepper flakes – Brings a gentle kick and warmth
Parsley – Fresh and herbal it balances the richness
Paprika – Adds smokiness and color
Salt – Enhances the flavor throughout the sauce
Black pepper – For seasoning and depth in every bite
Parmesan cheese – Optional but adds even more creamy umami

Tools You’ll Need

Large skillet – For cooking the chicken and preparing the sauce
Pot – To boil the linguine until perfectly al dente
Tongs – Useful for tossing the pasta evenly with the sauce
Knife and cutting board – To slice the chicken and prep the garlic
Citrus juicer or reamer – To squeeze fresh lemon juice
Grater – For optional Parmesan topping

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by cooking the linguine in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente then I drain it and reserve about half a cup of the pasta water for later.

Step 2:

While the pasta cooks I season the chicken breasts with salt pepper and paprika then I sear them in a hot skillet with a little oil until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked through.

Step 3:

Once the chicken is done I remove it from the skillet and slice it into thick strips then I add butter to the same pan along with minced garlic and let it melt and become fragrant.

Step 4:

I stir in lemon juice Dijon mustard red pepper flakes and a bit of the reserved pasta water to help the sauce come together then I toss in the linguine and coat it evenly.

Step 5:

I add the chicken back into the pan nestling it into the creamy cowboy butter-coated pasta then I sprinkle chopped parsley over the top and give it one last toss before serving.

Step 6:

If I’m feeling indulgent I finish the dish with a sprinkle of Parmesan and an extra crack of black pepper right before serving it warm.

Tips

If you want more heat you can double the red pepper flakes or stir in a little cayenne. For extra richness try adding a splash of heavy cream to the sauce at the end. I also love using leftover grilled chicken or even steak slices when I want to change things up and cowboy butter works great with both!

Ways to Serve

This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is fantastic on its own but I like to serve it with a fresh arugula salad or roasted green beans on the side. A warm piece of garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce and a cold glass of sweet tea or white wine makes it feel like a full Southern-style meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine ahead of time?

Yes just store the pasta and sauce separately and reheat gently with a splash of pasta water or cream to loosen it up.

What type of pasta works best in Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?

Linguine is my favorite but fettuccine spaghetti or tagliatelle also work beautifully because they hold the sauce well.

Can I use rotisserie chicken in Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?

Absolutely and it’s a great time-saver—just slice it and toss it in with the pasta during the final step.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine a try because it’s one of those recipes that brings big bold flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re making it for yourself or for a group it’s the kind of dish that always disappears fast so don’t forget to snap a photo and let me know how it turns out!

Happy Cooking!