Description
There’s nothing more comforting than a creamy pasta dish that’s full of bold flavors yet easy enough for a weeknight meal. This cowboy-inspired linguine combines tender chicken, smoky paprika, rich garlic-parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta for a dish that feels both rustic and indulgent. It’s hearty, satisfying, and guaranteed to become a favorite at your dinner table.
Ingredients
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12 oz linguine
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1½ lbs boneless chicken breast, sliced into strips or bite-sized pieces
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1 tsp salt (plus more for pasta water)
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1½ tsp smoked paprika
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2 tbsp olive oil
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3 tbsp butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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¾ cup heavy cream
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½ cup milk
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¾ cup grated parmesan cheese
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Optional: chopped parsley, red pepper flakes, squeeze of lemon
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine until al dente, then drain and set aside. Reserve ½ cup pasta water.
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Season chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
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In the same skillet, lower heat to medium. Melt butter, add garlic, and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Pour in heavy cream and milk. Simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Whisk in parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
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Return linguine and chicken to skillet. Toss well to coat, adding reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
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Garnish with parsley, red pepper flakes, or lemon juice. Serve immediately with bread or salad.
Notes
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For extra smoky flavor, increase the smoked paprika or add a pinch of chipotle powder.
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Use freshly grated parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
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Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers for variety.
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Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated gently with a splash of milk or cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes