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Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta


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

Description

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


Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

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