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Creamy Cowboy Chicken Linguine

Creamy Cowboy Chicken Linguine

  • Author: Mary
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free pasta used)

Description

Creamy Cowboy Chicken Linguine is a comforting and flavorful dinner combining tender chicken breasts, smoky spices, and a rich creamy sauce tossed with perfectly cooked linguine. Ready in under 30 minutes, this family-friendly, one-pan dish bursts with bold smoky, savory, and creamy flavors. Ideal for weeknights or family meals, it offers versatility with easy customization options to suit any taste or dietary preference.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Pasta

  • 8 oz linguine pasta

Spices & Aromatics

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Vegetables

  • 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (any color)

Dairy

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Fats & Oils

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sauté chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed. Add diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell peppers. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Cook the Linguine: While cooking the aromatics, boil linguine in salted water until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
  4. Make the Creamy Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add reserved pasta water gradually to adjust sauce thickness as needed.
  5. Combine and Serve: Toss drained linguine directly into the skillet, coating the pasta thoroughly with the creamy chicken mixture. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra cheese if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use fresh garlic, herbs, and bell peppers for maximum flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the chicken; sear just until no longer pink to keep it tender and juicy.
  • Reserve pasta water to loosen the sauce without diluting the flavor.
  • Sharp cheddar cheese provides the best flavor, but mixing in mozzarella adds gooey stretchiness.
  • Simmer the sauce gently; avoid boiling to maintain a silky texture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 550 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

Keywords: creamy chicken pasta, cowboy chicken linguine, one-pot pasta, smoky chicken linguine, weeknight dinner, family meal, creamy pasta sauce

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Find it online: https://marysplate.com/creamy-cowboy-chicken-linguine/