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Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta


  • Author: easymeal
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: None

Description

A delightful upgrade to your regular pasta night featuring tender chicken, colorful peppers, and a spicy, garlicky cowboy butter sauce.


Ingredients

  • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes
  • Juice and zest of ½ lemon
  • 12 oz (340g) linguine
  • 2 teaspoons salt for the pasta water
  • 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into strips
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large shallot, finely diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup (150g) sliced bell peppers
  • 4 tablespoons cowboy butter
  • ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
  • 4 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Lemon wedges for serving


Instructions

  1. Make the cowboy butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with minced garlic, Dijon mustard, parsley, chives, thyme, paprika, salt, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice and zest. Mix thoroughly.
  2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add linguine and cook until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  3. Prepare and sear the chicken: Season chicken strips with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet, then sear the chicken for about 4 minutes.
  4. Cook the vegetables: Add shallots, sliced garlic, and bell peppers to the pan, cooking until softened.
  5. Create the sauce: Stir in the cowboy butter until melted, then add the drained linguine.
  6. Finish with cream and cheese: Pour in heavy cream, add Parmesan cheese and parsley, tossing everything together. Use reserved pasta water to achieve desired sauce consistency.
  7. Serve immediately: Transfer to serving bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh parsley, and lemon wedges.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently while adding a splash of liquid to restore creaminess.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Searing
  • Cuisine: American