Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

why make this recipe

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that blends the richness of butter, creamy flavors, and tender chicken, creating a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. It brings together simple ingredients to create an unforgettable taste experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a one-skillet meal, making clean-up a breeze!

how to make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Ingredients:

  • 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

Directions:

  1. Season the 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 the seasoned chicken pieces and cook until they are browned and cooked through, approximately 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
  5. Stir in the heavy cream and let the mixture simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
  6. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until it has melted and the sauce is smooth.
  7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to combine with the sauce. Add the lemon juice and chopped parsley, stirring to mix.
  8. In a separate pot, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and add it to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce and chicken.
  9. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to ensure the pasta is well combined and heated through.
  10. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

how to serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

To serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta, place portions in bowls and sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese and finely chopped parsley for a fresh touch. This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a simple green salad.

how to store Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore its creamy texture.

tips to make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

  • For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate in the seasonings for 30 minutes before cooking.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best creamy consistency.
  • Experiment with different types of pasta if fettuccine isn’t available; penne or rigatoni work well too.
  • If you like it spicier, add more cayenne pepper or serve with red pepper flakes on the side.

variation

You can add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrition. For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative.

FAQs

Q: Can I use another type of meat?
A: Yes, you can substitute chicken with shrimp or turkey for a different flavor.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: While it’s best fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and cook the pasta right before serving.

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Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta


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  • Total Time: 45
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: None

Description

A delightful one-skillet meal featuring tender chicken in a rich, creamy sauce with fettuccine, perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

  • 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 the 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 the seasoned chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, approximately 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up browned bits from the skillet.
  5. Stir in heavy cream and let simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
  6. Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
  7. Return the chicken to the skillet, add lemon juice and parsley, stirring to combine.
  8. Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain, and add to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly.
  9. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is heated through.
  10. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.

Notes

For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate in the seasonings for 30 minutes before cooking. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best creamy consistency.

  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 30
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Skillet Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

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