Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
02 - 8 oz linguine pasta
03 - ½ cup unsalted butter
04 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
06 - 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
07 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
08 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
09 - ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
10 - Salt and pepper, to taste
11 - 1 cup chicken broth
12 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice
13 - Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

# Instructions:

01 - Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
02 - Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Remove and set aside.
03 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
04 - In the same skillet, melt remaining 6 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic, parsley, and thyme, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
05 - Add chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Simmer 2-3 minutes. Season to taste.
06 - Slice chicken into strips. Add pasta to sauce, tossing and adding reserved pasta water as needed. Fold in chicken. Serve topped with Parmesan cheese and extra herbs.

# Notes:

01 - Can adjust spice level by modifying red pepper flakes
02 - Save pasta water to adjust sauce consistency
03 - Use freshly grated Parmesan for best results