Cowboy Butter Chicken (Creamy, Garlicky & Ready in 30 Mins!)

You know those nights when you’re just done? Like, really done. But you still want something that feels a little special? This cowboy butter chicken is it. Creamy, garlicky, a touch lemony, and the kind of comforting that makes your whole kitchen smell like a hug. And the best part? It’s all ready in about 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Butter Chicken

It’s buttery and full of garlicky goodness, with a creamy sauce that clings to every bite of tender chicken. The lemon brightens it up while red pepper flakes bring just a whisper of heat. You can make it with pantry staples, swap out ingredients based on what’s in your fridge, and have the whole thing on the table faster than you’d think. It’s kid-friendly, adult-craveable, and weeknight magic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the chicken
Boneless skinless chicken breasts
Salt and black pepper
Olive oil

For the cowboy butter sauce
Butter
Fresh garlic, minced
Dijon mustard
Paprika
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Lemon juice and zest
Chicken broth or reserved pasta water
Heavy cream
Fresh parsley
Grated parmesan cheese

Optional add-ins
Spinach
Mushrooms
Chili flakes for extra heat

How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your linguine according to the package instructions. Scoop out about half a cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.

Season your chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden and fully cooked through. Transfer to a plate.

In the same skillet, melt butter. Stir in the garlic, paprika, and red pepper flakes if using. Let it sizzle until fragrant, just about a minute.

Add Dijon mustard, lemon juice, zest, and your broth or pasta water. Scrape up any browned bits from the pan. Let it simmer gently to build flavor.

Pour in the cream and half the parsley. Stir everything together and cook until it starts to thicken slightly.

Add the cooked chicken and linguine back into the skillet. Toss with parmesan cheese and a splash more pasta water if the sauce needs loosening.

Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, topped with fresh parsley and extra parmesan.

Variations and Swaps

Switch the chicken for shrimp, turkey, or chickpeas if you’re going meatless. Any long pasta works here try spaghetti or even zoodles. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter, coconut cream, and your favorite dairy-free cheese. You can also toss in sautéed spinach or mushrooms to sneak in some veggies.

What to Serve with It

You can’t go wrong with warm garlic bread for soaking up all that buttery sauce. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness. Roasted broccoli or asparagus make great veggie sides. For drinks, a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling lemonade pairs beautifully.

Recommended anchor text: Serve it with this creamy chicken lasagna soup for a cozy dinner combo.

Recommended anchor text: Or lighten things up with our lemon garlic salmon it pairs perfectly with cowboy butter chicken.
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Recommended anchor text: Need a side? This roasted parmesan broccoli is crunchy, cheesy, and made for pasta nights.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Pop leftovers in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or pasta water to revive the sauce. If you’re freezing, store the pasta and sauce separately for the best texture. You can also prep the sauce a day ahead and cook the chicken fresh for speedier dinners.

Helpful Tips for Best Results

Always reserve a bit of pasta water it’s liquid gold for sauces. Don’t overcook the garlic or it’ll turn bitter. Start mild with the red pepper and adjust to your heat preference. Fresh lemon juice adds brightness you don’t want to skip. And finally, taste as you go. This sauce is all about balance.

FAQ

Try this cozy skillet dinner and let me know how your family liked it. Snap a pic, share it, or just save the leftovers for a midnight forkful you deserve it.

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