For the Cowboy Butter

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 tsp smoked paprika Salt & pepper to taste

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced thin or cubed)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt & black pepper
• Optional: 1/2 tsp smoked paprika or cayenne

For the Pasta

• 12 oz linguine (or pasta of choice)
• Salted water for boiling
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water

Optional Garnishes

• Grated Parmesan
• Extra parsley
• Lemon wedges
• Crushed red pepper