Ultimate Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Comfort food has a unique way of wrapping us in a warm embrace, evoking feelings of nostalgia and satisfaction with every bite. It's the kind of food that not only fills our stomachs but also nourishes the soul. One dish that perfectly encapsulates this feeling is the Ultimate Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. This dish is not just a meal; it's a culinary adventure that brings together a fusion of flavors that will transport you to the heart of the American West while tantalizing your taste buds with a hint of Italian flair.

Indulge in the Ultimate Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, a comforting fusion dish that combines the savory richness of chicken thighs in a creamy, buttery sauce with perfectly cooked linguine. This recipe blends spices like smoked paprika, cumin, and a hint of chili powder, creating a vibrant flavor experience. Fresh herbs and lemon zest add brightness, making it not just satisfying but also refreshing. Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Discover how to create this delightful meal and bring warmth to your table!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

12 oz linguine pasta

2 tbsp unsalted butter

1 tbsp olive oil

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, diced

1 small onion, finely chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp chili powder

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup chicken broth

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup chopped fresh spinach

1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 1/2 lemon

Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions

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

Prepare the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of the butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced chicken thighs and season with smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Sauté until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.

Combine Everything: Add the sautéed chicken back into the skillet along with the cooked linguine. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. If needed, stir in reserved pasta water to reach your desired sauce consistency.

Add Greens and Finishing Touches: Stir in the chopped spinach, lemon zest, and juice. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach has wilted. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.

Serve: Plate the Ultimate Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, garnishing with freshly chopped chives, parsley, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 30 mins | Serves 4