Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe: Easy, Creamy and Flavorful

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a delightful combination of creamy, buttery goodness mixed with tender chicken and pasta. It’s the perfect comfort food that’s easy to whip up on a busy weeknight. The rich sauce, infused with garlic and onions, packs a flavorful punch, while the extra kick from red pepper flakes makes it exciting to eat. Plus, it’s all made in one skillet, which means less cleanup for you!

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:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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!

What Type Of Ingredients Should I Use

For this recipe, fresh ingredients are always best! Choose high-quality chicken breasts that are firm and smell fresh. For pasta, opt for dried versions that have a good texture, like penne or fettuccine. If you decide to use frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to achieve that golden brown color. Fresh garlic and onions can add a big flavor boost, while heavy cream gives the sauce its creamy texture. Avoid using expired or low-quality canned broth as it may lead to an unbalanced taste.

How To Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

This dish works wonderfully as a main course and can be served with a light side salad or garlic bread. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top just before serving adds a touch of elegance. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers with friends.

How To Store Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

If you have leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and it can be kept in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to keep it creamy.

Helpful Tip to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

To ensure the pasta doesn’t stick together, make sure to stir it occasionally while cooking. Also, remember to reserve some pasta water before draining; it’s the secret ingredient for adjusting the sauce’s consistency and flavor!

Variations

You can easily switch up the recipe with different proteins like shrimp or sausage. For a vegetarian version, consider using mushrooms or hearty vegetables like zucchini. Each variation can bring a new twist to this classic dish!

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta works just as well, though it may alter the texture slightly. Just be careful not to overcook it.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Simply cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve, and then combine the two.

Is there a dairy-free option?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and omit the Parmesan cheese, or use a dairy-free cheese alternative for a dairy-free version.

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