Creating Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a breeze with these straightforward steps:

1. Cook Pasta: Begin by boiling salted water in a large pot. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Season Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper for a kick.

3. Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, melt ½ cup of butter over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

4. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and onion powder to the leftover butter. Sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

5. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, allowing the flavors to meld together for another 2 minutes.

6. Mix with Pasta: Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss everything together gently, ensuring the pasta is coated in the buttery sauce.

7. Final Touches: Stir in chopped parsley and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, mixing everything well.

8. Serve: Remove from heat and serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

This recipe’s steps are designed for ease and success, ensuring even novice cooks can create a mouth-watering dish.