Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is an irresistible dish that brings a burst of flavor and comfort to your dinner table. Imagine tender chicken simmered in a rich buttery sauce, complemented by creamy Parmesan and bright parsley, all served atop a bed of perfectly cooked pasta. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of taste, making it perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or simply a cozy night in.

As you dive into this delightful recipe, you’ll enjoy the comforting aroma of garlic and spices that fill your kitchen. The combination of savory chicken and a luscious sauce creates a sensory experience that’s hard to resist. In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of creating this delectable dish, while exploring ways to serve and store it. Let’s get started on making Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta your new favorite recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh Ingredients: Enjoy tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
Ease of Preparation: Quick steps make it simple enough for beginners but impressive enough for guests.
Nutrition: Packed with protein and wholesome ingredients, it’s a satisfying meal.
Versatility: Easily switch out proteins or pasta types to suit your tastes.
Presentation: Stunning colors and textures make it a showstopper on any table.

You will find countless reasons to make this dish again and again!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total time: 30 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes

Note that times may vary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

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

How To Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet.
Stir in the heavy cream and let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to combine with the sauce. Add lemon juice and chopped parsley, stirring well.
Cook the pasta according to package instructions in a separate pot. Drain and add to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta with the sauce and chicken.
Cook for another 2-3 minutes to ensure everything is heated through. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.

How to Serve

Presentation: Plate the pasta in shallow bowls for an elegant display.
Accompaniments: Serve with garlic bread or a crisp salad on the side.
Portions: This recipe serves about 4 people, making it great for sharing.
Beverage Pairing: A chilled glass of white wine complements the flavors beautifully.

Enjoy this delicious meal in great company!

Additional Tips

Flavor Enhancement: Add a touch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Customization: Substitute chicken with shrimp or vegetables for a different twist.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with a fresh lemon wedge to brighten the flavors.

Recipe Variations

Creamy Cajun Version: Add Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a veggie delight.
One-Pan Meal: Toss in some cherry tomatoes and asparagus during cooking for added veggies.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: In the refrigerator, store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For best results, freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Special Equipment

Large skillet
Pot for boiling pasta
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board
Wooden spoon or spatula

FAQ’s

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even cooking.
Is this dish gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for gluten-free diets.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook everything and store it. Reheat before serving.
How can I customize the flavors?
Feel free to adjust spices or add your favorite vegetables to the sauce.
Are there alternative cooking methods?
You can make this dish in an Instant Pot for a quicker preparation.

Conclusion

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines comforting flavors with easy preparation. Its health aspect is balanced by creamy goodness, making it a great choice for any occasion—from casual weeknight meals to impressive dinner parties. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and savor the deliciousness! You’ll be thrilled with the result!

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