For the Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp unsalted butter

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

½ tsp smoked paprika

¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

8 oz linguine

Salted water, for boiling

¼ cup reserved pasta water

For the Cowboy Butter Sauce:

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

2 garlic cloves, minced

¼ cup chicken broth

¼ cup heavy cream

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tbsp Dijon mustard

1 tbsp lemon juice

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)