Name: Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 ounces pasta of your choice (penne or fettuccine); 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a lighter option); 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that has quickly become a favorite in my house. With its rich, creamy sauce and flavorful, perfectly cooked chicken, it’s a meal that hits all the right notes. This recipe is great for busy weeknights when you want comfort food but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, and trust me, it will leave a lasting impression with its bold flavors.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

This Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta stands out for its simplicity and the all-in-one flavor punch it delivers. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for a satisfying dinner. Pair it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread, and you have a meal that feels just a bit indulgent without the hassle. The creamy sauce combines the richness of butter and heavy cream with a kick from red pepper flakes, making this dish a sure-win for both kids and adults alike.

“My family couldn’t stop raving about this dish! It was creamy, flavorful, and so easy to make. The kids loved it too!” – A Happy Cook

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Making Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a breeze. This recipe involves simple steps that help you create a delicious dish with minimal effort. First, you’ll cook your pasta, and while that’s boiling, you’ll sauté the chicken. Then, it’s all about making that creamy sauce that is heavenly. In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a complete meal ready to serve!

What You’ll Need

To whip up this scrumptious Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta, gather the following ingredients:

Pasta of your choice (penne or fettuccine) – 12 ounces
Chicken breast – 1 pound, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
Butter – 4 tablespoons (unsalted for better flavor control)
Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
Onion – 1 medium, diced
Heavy cream – 1 cup (or substitute with coconut milk for a lighter option)
Chicken broth – 1 cup (low-sodium preferred)
Parmesan cheese – 1 cup, grated
Italian seasoning – 1 tablespoon
Red pepper flakes – 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper – to taste
Fresh parsley – for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Directions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Season the diced chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter, and sauté the minced garlic and diced onion until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
Add Cream and Broth: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Add the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, letting the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. If too thick, use reserved pasta water to adjust.
Combine Pasta and Chicken: Return the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss together until well coated, cooking for an additional 2 minutes to meld flavors.
Serve: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and let it melt into the dish. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving to add a pop of color. Enjoy your Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta warm!

Best Way to Serve

For the ultimate presentation of your Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta, serve it alongside a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette. Garlic bread or breadsticks are perfect to soak up the creamy sauce. You can even top each serving with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that restaurant-quality touch!

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Storage Tips

To keep your leftover Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and microwave gently, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce thickens too much.

Pro Chef Tips

Salt your pasta water well; this ensures your pasta is flavored from the start.
For a healthier twist, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or half-and-half.
Don’t rush the browning of the chicken; it adds a great depth of flavor to the dish.

Creative Twists

Feel free to get creative with this Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta! You can add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor. For a different twist, consider using flavored pasta or experimenting with different protein options, like shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta?
This dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, though I recommend something that holds sauce well.

How do I store leftovers safely?
Make sure to let it cool before transferring to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
Yes! You can use coconut milk for a lighter version or even a dairy-free option.

What can I serve with Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta?
A simple green salad or garlic bread makes great side dishes to complement this creamy pasta!

Enjoy bringing this delightful Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta into your home kitchen. It’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your cookbook!