Ready to bring this mouthwatering dish to life? Follow these steps and enjoy the process, just as much as the result.

1. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
2. Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
3. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Whisk in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for about 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Add the cooked linguine, tossing gently to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
6. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

As I toss the pasta in the sauce, I often think of how cooking this meal feels like weaving a tapestry of flavors, much like how life weaves our daily experiences into a beautiful story.