Name: oy Butter Chicken Linguine in 30 Minutes Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 12 ounces linguine pasta; 3 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1/2 cup chicken broth or reserved pasta water; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (divided)

Jump to Recipe

Oh, you are in for a real treat with this oy Butter Chicken Linguine in 30 Minutes! This dish is a delightful fusion of creamy, buttery sauce and perfectly cooked chicken, all tossed with tender linguine that soaks up that rich flavor beautifully. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this recipe balances simplicity and indulgence in such a heartwarming way that you’ll keep coming back for more.

oy Butter Chicken Linguine in 30 Minutes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting straight to the point, the magic behind this oy Butter Chicken Linguine in 30 Minutes lies in a handful of simple yet incredibly flavorful ingredients. Each element brings its own personality — from the tang of fresh lemon to the creamy warmth of butter and cheese — making the final dish both comforting and vibrant.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein base that cooks quickly and stays tender.
Linguine pasta: Perfectly thin noodles that cling to the luscious sauce for every bite.
Olive oil: Used to sear the chicken, adding a subtle fruity depth.
Butter: The star of the “cowboy butter” sauce for rich creaminess.
Garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with a fragrant punch of flavor.
Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy complexity to balance the richness.
Paprika: Brings a mild smoky warmth that’s utterly inviting.
Red pepper flakes (optional): Just a hint of heat to wake up the palate.
Lemon juice and zest: Brightens the sauce with fresh citrus notes.
Fresh parsley, chopped: For a burst of color and fresh herbal fragrance.
Chicken broth or reserved pasta water: Builds the sauce’s silky consistency.
Heavy cream: Makes the sauce decadently smooth and luxurious.
Grated parmesan cheese: Adds nuttiness and a savory finish.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance every flavor layer.

How to Make oy Butter Chicken Linguine in 30 Minutes

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly

Start by boiling the linguine in plenty of salted water according to the package instructions. The key here is to cook it just shy of al dente since it’ll finish cooking later in the sauce. Don’t forget to reserve half a cup of pasta water before draining because that starchy liquid is golden for adjusting the sauce consistency later.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Juicy Perfection

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper, then cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes per side until they develop a beautiful golden crust and are cooked through. Afterward, set them aside to rest while you create the sauce — this keeps the chicken juicy and tender.

Step 3: Whip Up the Cowboy Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt a good amount of butter to soak up all those leftover chicken flavors. Add minced garlic, paprika, and red pepper flakes, sautéing for just about a minute until fragrant but careful not to burn the garlic. This forms the flavor backbone that will take your oy Butter Chicken Linguine in 30 Minutes to the next level.

Step 4: Layer in Zesty and Tangy Goodness

Stir in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and lemon zest, followed by chicken broth or that reserved pasta water. Use a spatula to scrape up any bits stuck to the pan — those golden bits are pure flavor bombs! Let the sauce gently simmer as these ingredients meld together into a vibrant mix.

Step 5: Enrich with Cream and Fresh Herbs

Now, pour in the heavy cream and half of your chopped parsley. Stir gently to combine and let it cook just a couple more minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. This creates that beautifully creamy texture that clings lovingly to both chicken and pasta.

Step 6: Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Parmesan

Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss it back into the skillet with your linguine and parmesan cheese. Use some of the reserved pasta water to help loosen the sauce if needed and ensure every strand of linguine is generously coated. This step brings everything together in perfect harmony, creating the essence of the oy Butter Chicken Linguine in 30 Minutes.

Step 7: Final Seasoning and Serving

Taste your masterpiece and adjust salt and pepper to your preference. Finish by garnishing with the remaining fresh parsley and a bit more parmesan cheese for added flavor and pretty presentation. Serve immediately while warm and watch how this dish wins everyone over with its irresistible flavor combination.

How to Serve oy Butter Chicken Linguine in 30 Minutes

Garnishes

Fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a vivid pop of green that livens up the plate visually and imparts a fresh, herbaceous contrast to the warm buttery sauce. A final dusting of parmesan cheese also enhances flavor and adds a lovely texture bit.

Side Dishes

This linguine pairs wonderfully with light, crisp salads like arugula with lemon vinaigrette or a simple cucumber salad to balance the richness of the sauce. Roasted vegetables such as asparagus or green beans also work brilliantly as a colorful, healthy sidekick.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the oy Butter Chicken Linguine in 30 Minutes directly in shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce pooling around the pasta. Consider adding a lemon wedge on the side for an extra zesty burst at the table. For a cozy dinner party, plate with freshly baked garlic bread to mop up every last bit of that luscious sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover oy Butter Chicken Linguine in 30 Minutes should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an excellent next-day lunch or dinner option that tastes almost as good as freshly made.

Freezing

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh due to the creamy sauce, you can freeze leftovers by placing them in a freezer-safe container. For best quality, consume within 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve textures and flavors.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce’s silky texture. Avoid using high heat or microwave as it can cause the cream sauce to separate. Stir frequently until heated through and enjoy just like new.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of linguine?

Absolutely! Fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne will work wonderfully as they all hold creamy sauces well. Just keep cooking times in mind as they vary by pasta type.

Is this dish spicy?

It’s mildly spicy due to the optional red pepper flakes, but you can easily adjust by omitting or increasing the amount based on your preference.

Can I substitute heavy cream with something lighter?

You can use half-and-half for a lighter option, but keep in mind the sauce will be less rich and slightly thinner. Coconut cream is a dairy-free alternative but will change the flavor profile.

How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?

Don’t overcook the chicken; cook just until no longer pink in the center. Let it rest a few minutes after cooking before slicing to keep all the juices locked in.

What can I do if the sauce is too thick?

Add a little reserved pasta water or chicken broth a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. The starchy pasta water is perfect to loosen the sauce without diluting the flavors.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this oy Butter Chicken Linguine in 30 Minutes quickly became one of my absolute favorite go-to recipes when I want something that feels cozy, special, and utterly delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s approachable, packed with vibrant flavors, and ready faster than you’d expect. I hope you love making it as much as I do — it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and comfort to any table.

oy Butter Chicken Linguine in 30 Minutes Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 14 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

This Irresistibly Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a rich, creamy butter sauce infused with garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon, and a hint of paprika and red pepper flakes. Ready in just 30 minutes, this comforting pasta dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.

Instructions

Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set pasta aside.
Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Prepare Cowboy Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
Add Flavor Components: Stir in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth or reserved pasta water. Scrape the bottom of the pan to lift browned bits and simmer gently to develop flavor.
Creamy Sauce Formation: Pour in heavy cream and half of the chopped parsley. Stir gently and cook for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine All: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the linguine and grated parmesan cheese. Toss everything together to evenly coat. Add reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired sauce consistency.
Final Touches: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with remaining parsley and extra parmesan cheese before serving immediately.

Notes

Reserve pasta water before draining to adjust sauce consistency easily.
Use chicken broth if you prefer a richer sauce, or substitute with reserved pasta water for a lighter taste.
Red pepper flakes are optional; adjust according to your preferred spice level.
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the sauce will be less creamy.
Fresh parsley adds a fresh finish, but you can substitute with cilantro or basil for variation.
Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or pasta water if the sauce thickens too much.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Sautéing, Boiling
Cuisine: American