Zesty Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine: A Bold Twist on Comfort Food

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 2 tablespoons of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Season and Cook the Chicken:

In a bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mix over the chicken slices.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Cowboy Butter Sauce:

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Stir in the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, honey, parsley, and thyme. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2–3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine:

Add the cooked linguine and reserved pasta water to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the buttery sauce. Slice the chicken and place it over the pasta. Toss lightly to combine or serve the chicken atop the linguine.
Garnish and Serve:

Sprinkle fresh parsley and grated Parmesan over the top. Serve immediately and enjoy the zesty flavors!
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving: Pair this dish with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
Variants
Spicier Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a veggie-packed alternative.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap the linguine for gluten-free pasta without compromising on flavor.
FAQ
Q: Can I use another type of pasta?
A: Yes, spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne work well with this sauce and chicken combination.

Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative, such as vegan butter or olive oil, and skip the Parmesan garnish.

Q: How can I make the sauce creamier?
A: Add ¼ cup of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream to the sauce for a richer texture.