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Why Make This Recipe

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a delicious meal that combines savory chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta in one dish. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. Plus, it’s easy to make and packed with flavor, making it a go-to recipe for anyone looking for a hearty meal.

How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Ingredients:

Pasta of your choice (e.g., penne or fettuccine) – 12 ounces
Chicken breast – 1 pound, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
Butter – 4 tablespoons (unsalted is recommended 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)

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 (typically 8-10 minutes). Once cooked, reserve 1 cup of pasta water, drain it, and set it aside.
Sauté Chicken
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, stirring occasionally. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set 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). This step infuses the butter with flavor, making your sauce deliciously aromatic.
Add Cream and Broth
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Add the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. If it becomes too thick, use your reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
Combine Pasta and Chicken
Return the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Toss everything together to ensure the chicken and pasta are coated in the creamy sauce and let it cook for another 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
Serve
Finally, 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!

How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta warm on a big bowl or plate. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for added flavor and presentation. Pair it with garlic bread or a salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Let any leftovers cool completely before storing. Place the pasta in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet or microwave. You might need to add a splash of broth or cream to maintain its creamy texture.

Tips to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Make sure not to overcook the pasta—aim for al dente for the best texture.
Feel free to adjust the spiciness by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially the garlic and parsley.
You can substitute the chicken with shrimp or a plant-based option for a different twist.

Variation

For a veggie option, add your favorite vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli to the skillet when cooking the garlic and onion. This will enhance the meal’s nutritional value and add color.

FAQs

Can I make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for later use. Reheat before serving.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use coconut milk for a lighter option or even broth for a less creamy dish.

How can I make it extra cheesy?
Add more Parmesan cheese to the sauce or sprinkle more on top right before serving for extra flavor.