Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is not just a dish; it’s an experience that combines creamy, buttery goodness with the robust flavors of seasoned chicken and pasta. I first stumbled upon this gem during a busy weeknight, searching for something both comforting and quick to throw together. The warmth and richness of the dish envelops you like a cozy blanket, making it perfect for any day when you crave a little indulgence without too much fuss.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This recipe is a celebration of flavor and simplicity. One of the top reasons to try Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is how quickly it comes together. In about 30 minutes, you can have a satisfying meal that warms the soul. It’s an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or even for impressing guests during a casual gathering. The combination of the buttery sauce, seasoned chicken, and pasta creates a dish that’s not just tasty but also feels luxurious.

"I made this for my family on a busy Tuesday, and they loved it! The flavors are incredible, and it was so easy to prepare!" – Happy Home Cook

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Preparing Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is straightforward and nearly foolproof, making it a fantastic option for cooks of all levels. Here’s what to expect when making this dish:

1. Start by seasoning your chicken with a blend of spices that forms the base of the dish’s flavor.
2. Sauté the chicken until it’s golden brown and fully cooked.
3. Create a creamy butter and garlic sauce that elevates the chicken to new heights.
4. Combine everything with pasta for a deliciously cohesive meal.

With this outline, you can easily follow along with the detailed instructions below.

What You’ll Need

Here’s a handy ingredient checklist to have on hand as you prepare:

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• 500 g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
• 340 g (12 oz) fettuccine or pasta of choice
• Juice of half a lemon

(Fee free to use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a slightly richer flavor; they’ll work equally well!)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, melt the butter, and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping any browned bits from the skillet.
5. Stir in heavy cream and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
6. Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce. Add lemon juice and chopped parsley.
8. Cook pasta according to package instructions, then drain and add to the skillet, tossing to coat.
9. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to ensure everything is heated through and well combined.

Best Way to Serve

When it comes to serving Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta, a little creativity can make the meal shine even brighter. Here are some tips for a beautiful presentation:

• Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley.
• Serve alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• A crusty piece of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Storage Tips

To keep Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta fresh, follow these storage guidelines:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well, so you can portion it out and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm up on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore creaminess.

Expert Advice

For the best results when making Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta, consider these pro tips:

• Don’t skip the step of sautéing the chicken until it’s golden brown; it adds depth and flavor.
• Use high-quality, freshly grated Parmesan for the best creamy texture in your sauce.
• If you’re feeling adventurous, add a splash of white wine to the garlic butter sauce for a nuanced flavor.

Creative Twists

There are plenty of ways to give this dish your personal touch! Here are a few variations to try:

• Herb-Infused: Add fresh basil or thyme for herbal notes.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added nutrition and color.
• Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or adjusting the cayenne pepper.

Common Questions

What is the cooking time for this recipe?

It typically takes about 30 minutes from start to finish.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap the fettuccine for any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rigatoni.

How can I store leftovers safely?

Make sure to allow the pasta to cool down before placing it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days for the best taste.

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is truly a winning recipe — rich, creamy, and irresistibly delicious. Give it a try, and it just might become a staple in your kitchen!

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

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• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A creamy and buttery pasta dish with seasoned chicken, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 500 g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
• 340 g (12 oz) fettuccine or pasta of choice
• Juice of half a lemon

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Instructions

1. Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, melt the butter, and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping any browned bits from the skillet.
5. Stir in heavy cream and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
6. Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce. Add lemon juice and chopped parsley.
8. Cook pasta according to package instructions, then drain and add to the skillet, tossing to coat.
9. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to ensure everything is heated through and well combined.

Notes

For a richer flavor, consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts. Pair with a fresh salad or garlic bread.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: chicken pasta, creamy pasta, weeknight dinner, easy pasta recipes, comfort food