Description

Imagine a cozy weeknight dinner that feels special yet simple to prepare. Cowboy Butter Lemon Chicken Linguine combines tender, juicy chicken with a creamy, garlicky butter sauce brightened by fresh lemon juice and fragrant herbs. Inspired by classic southern “cowboy butter” sauces, this recipe transforms them into a vibrant pasta dish perfect for weeknights, family dinners, or a special occasion. Every bite delivers a balance of savory, zesty, and slightly smoky flavors, making it comforting and indulgent without being heavy.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt & black pepper, to taste
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Pasta:

12 oz linguine pasta

For the Cowboy Butter Sauce:

½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp Cajun seasoning
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

Cook the linguine in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
Season chicken with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in Dijon mustard, Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, and zest. Simmer 1–2 minutes.
Return cooked linguine and chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce. Add reserved pasta water if needed for creaminess. Stir in Parmesan cheese and parsley.
Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.

Notes

Use fresh garlic, lemon, and parsley for best flavor.
Adjust spice by modifying Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated with a splash of pasta water.
Serve with a light salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes