Why Make This Recipe

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, rich cream sauce, and flavorful pasta. It’s a one-pan meal that brings comfort food to the next level. Whether you are feeding your family or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Ingredients:

12 ounces pasta of your choice (e.g., penne or fettuccine)
1 pound boneless and 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)

Directions:

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, reserving 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain.
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown (about 6-8 minutes). Remove the chicken from the skillet.
In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and sauté garlic and onion until translucent.
Add heavy cream and chicken broth, stir to combine, then add Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet, adjust seasoning as needed, and toss to coat. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley.

How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is best served hot. You can dish it out onto individual plates and sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a lovely touch and color. Pair this dish with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

Tips to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for extra nutrition and color.
If you like it spicy, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta.

Variation

You can switch up the protein by using shrimp or a plant-based protein for a different twist. You can also replace the heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk or cashew cream for a lighter version.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.

2. Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables and follow the same cooking steps.

3. Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time, but it’s best to combine everything just before serving to keep the pasta from becoming soggy.