Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 12 oz linguine
02 - 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, sliced
03 - 2 tbsp olive oil
04 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
05 - Salt to taste
06 - Black pepper to taste
07 - 6 tbsp unsalted butter
08 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
09 - 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
10 - 1 tbsp lemon juice
11 - 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
12 - 2 tbsp chopped parsley
13 - 1 tbsp chopped chives

# Instructions:

01 - Cook linguine in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
02 - Season chicken with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
03 - In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until golden and cooked through, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
04 - In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
05 - Stir in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Add 1/4 cup reserved pasta water and whisk to combine.
06 - Return chicken to skillet, add linguine, and toss to coat. Add more pasta water as needed to thin the sauce.
07 - Stir in chopped parsley and chives. Serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - Add sautéed spinach or cherry tomatoes for a veggie-packed version.
02 - Reduce or omit red pepper flakes for a milder flavor.
03 - Great with gluten-free pasta or shrimp as a variation.