Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta Flavorful Weeknight Meal

by
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces - 8 oz fettuccine or your choice of pasta - 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick) - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced The chicken is the star of this dish. It gives a rich, savory flavor. I like to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a tender bite. The pasta, ideally fettuccine, holds the sauce well. Butter adds creaminess and depth. Garlic brings an amazing aroma and taste. - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (increase or decrease to taste) Smoked paprika gives a nice depth to the dish. It adds a hint of smokiness that feels rustic. Dried oregano adds an earthy note that pairs perfectly. For heat, cayenne pepper is key. Adjust to your spice level for a custom kick. - Zest and juice of 1 lemon - 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1/2 cup heavy cream - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Lemon brightens up the dish with its fresh zest and juice. Chicken broth adds more flavor and body to the sauce. Cherry tomatoes offer sweetness and a pop of color. Heavy cream brings richness, making it all creamy and smooth. Lastly, fresh parsley adds a lovely touch to your plate. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, grab a large pot. Fill it with salted water and bring it to a boil. The water should be bubbling. Add 8 ounces of fettuccine. Cook it according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente, which means it's firm but not hard. This should take about 8-10 minutes. When it's done, drain the pasta in a colander. Save a bit of that pasta water; we might need it later. Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1/4 cup of unsalted butter. Wait until the butter melts and bubbles. This step gives the chicken a nice flavor. Now, add the diced chicken pieces. Sprinkle some salt, pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika on top. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes. It should turn golden brown and be fully cooked. Once done, take the chicken out and place it on a clean plate. In the same skillet, add the other 1/4 cup of butter. Let it melt over medium heat. Then, stir in 4 minced garlic cloves. Follow with the rest of the smoked paprika, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper. Squeeze the juice of 1 lemon and add its zest too. Cook this mix for 1-2 minutes. The garlic will smell great and turn slightly golden. Now, pour in 1/2 cup of low-sodium chicken broth. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes. Slightly raise the heat and let it simmer for about 3 minutes. This softens the tomatoes and blends the flavors. Lower the heat again and add 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Stir well. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Let everything simmer for another 2-3 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken a bit. Time to combine! Gently fold the cooked pasta into the sauce. Make sure the creamy sauce hugs every piece of pasta. If you find the sauce too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. This will help reach your desired thickness. Before serving, taste the pasta. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. This adds a bright look and fresh taste. Enjoy your Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta! - Ensuring chicken remains tender: Cut the chicken into small, even pieces. This helps it cook faster and stay juicy. Sauté the chicken over medium heat. If you cook it too fast, it may dry out. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C). - Tips for cooking pasta perfectly: Start with a large pot of salted water. The water should taste like the sea! Add your pasta and stir. Cook until al dente, which means firm to the bite. Drain it well, but save a bit of pasta water. This water can help thicken your sauce later. - Adjusting spice levels: If you like heat, add more cayenne pepper. Start with a small amount, and taste as you go. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out once it’s in. Balance the heat with cream; it cools the spice while keeping the flavor rich. - Choosing the right pasta type: Fettuccine works well, but you can use any pasta you love. Try penne or rigatoni for a fun twist. Just ensure the pasta shape can hold the sauce well. This way, every bite is packed with flavor. - Pairing with sides: A simple side salad goes great with this dish. Try a mix of greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. Garlic bread is another favorite. It soaks up the sauce and adds a crunchy texture. - Wine pairings: A chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, matches nicely with the creamy sauce. If you prefer red, a light Pinot Noir works too. The key is to choose a wine that complements the flavors without overpowering them. Pro Tips Cook Pasta Al Dente: To achieve the best texture, ensure you cook the pasta until it's al dente. This means it should have a slight bite to it, which will hold up better when mixed with the sauce. Season the Chicken: Make sure to season the chicken pieces well with salt and pepper before cooking. This enhances the flavor of the chicken and adds depth to the overall dish. Adjust Spice Levels: The cayenne pepper adds heat, but you can adjust the amount to suit your taste. Start with less if you prefer a milder dish, and add more if you're looking for a spicy kick. Reserve Pasta Water: Always reserve a bit of the pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water can be used to adjust the sauce's consistency without diluting the flavor. {{image_4}} Alternative proteins If you want to change the protein, try shrimp or tofu. Shrimp cooks fast and adds a nice taste. Tofu is a great choice for vegetarian meals. Just make sure to press it well to remove extra water. Gluten-free pasta options For gluten-free needs, use brown rice pasta or zucchini noodles. Brown rice pasta has a nice texture. Zucchini noodles are light and fresh. Both options work well with the sauce. Dairy-free adaptations To make this dish dairy-free, swap heavy cream for coconut cream. This gives the sauce a rich taste. Use dairy-free butter for the cowboy butter effect. Low-carb options If you're cutting carbs, try using spaghetti squash instead of pasta. It’s low in carbs and has a fun texture. You can also use shirataki noodles for a lighter meal. Adding vegetables You can add spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for more nutrients. These veggies cook quickly and add color. Just toss them in when sautéing the chicken. Additional herbs and spices For more flavor, consider adding fresh basil or thyme. A pinch of crushed red pepper can add heat too. Don't be afraid to mix up the spices to suit your taste. To keep your Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta fresh, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. For reheating, the best method is on the stove. Use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. Stir gently until it is heated through. This method helps keep the pasta creamy and tasty. If you choose to freeze, do so in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. Reheat on the stove as mentioned above. Avoid freezing with fresh parsley, as it may lose flavor. Cowboy Butter is a rich and flavorful sauce. It blends garlic, butter, and spices. The smoky taste comes from smoked paprika. The lemon adds a bright note. Together, these flavors create a zesty and creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta and chicken. Yes, you can prep this dish ahead of time. Cook the chicken and make the sauce. Store them in the fridge. When ready to eat, just heat them up. Cook the pasta fresh for the best taste and texture. Fettuccine is the best choice for this dish. Its flat shape holds the sauce well. You can also use penne or rotini. Both choices work great too. Just ensure you cook the pasta until al dente for the best bite. The spice level can be adjusted easily. The recipe calls for cayenne pepper. Start with one teaspoon for a mild heat. If you like more heat, add more cayenne. Taste as you go to find your perfect spice level. Now you know how to make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta. We covered key ingredients like chicken, pasta, garlic, and spices. You learned step-by-step instructions on how to cook everything perfectly. I also shared tips for enhancing flavor and variations for special diets. Plus, you got storage info to keep leftovers fresh. Cooking this dish is fun and simple. Be creative with flavors and enjoy every bite! Stick to these steps, and you will impress your family and friends with a delicious meal.

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Are you ready to spice up your weeknight dinners? Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta combines juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and flavorful spices for a meal your family will love. In this article, I’ll show you how to make this tasty dish, step by step. Get ready to impress your taste buds and simplify dinner time with this easy recipe that brings comfort food right to your table!

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Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
  2. Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, smoked paprika, and lemon creates a rich and zesty sauce that elevates the dish.
  3. Versatile: Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or vegetables, or use any pasta shape you love!
  4. Family-Friendly: This pasta dish is sure to please everyone at the table, with its creamy texture and vibrant flavors.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

– 8 oz fettuccine or your choice of pasta

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)

– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced

The chicken is the star of this dish. It gives a rich, savory flavor. I like to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a tender bite. The pasta, ideally fettuccine, holds the sauce well. Butter adds creaminess and depth. Garlic brings an amazing aroma and taste.

Spices and Herbs

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (increase or decrease to taste)

Smoked paprika gives a nice depth to the dish. It adds a hint of smokiness that feels rustic. Dried oregano adds an earthy note that pairs perfectly. For heat, cayenne pepper is key. Adjust to your spice level for a custom kick.

Other Ingredients

– Zest and juice of 1 lemon

– 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

– 1/2 cup heavy cream

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Lemon brightens up the dish with its fresh zest and juice. Chicken broth adds more flavor and body to the sauce. Cherry tomatoes offer sweetness and a pop of color. Heavy cream brings richness, making it all creamy and smooth. Lastly, fresh parsley adds a lovely touch to your plate.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

First, grab a large pot. Fill it with salted water and bring it to a boil. The water should be bubbling. Add 8 ounces of fettuccine. Cook it according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente, which means it’s firm but not hard. This should take about 8-10 minutes. When it’s done, drain the pasta in a colander. Save a bit of that pasta water; we might need it later.

Sautéing the Chicken

Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1/4 cup of unsalted butter. Wait until the butter melts and bubbles. This step gives the chicken a nice flavor. Now, add the diced chicken pieces. Sprinkle some salt, pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika on top. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes. It should turn golden brown and be fully cooked. Once done, take the chicken out and place it on a clean plate.

Preparing the Cowboy Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, add the other 1/4 cup of butter. Let it melt over medium heat. Then, stir in 4 minced garlic cloves. Follow with the rest of the smoked paprika, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper. Squeeze the juice of 1 lemon and add its zest too. Cook this mix for 1-2 minutes. The garlic will smell great and turn slightly golden.

Combining Chicken and Cream

Now, pour in 1/2 cup of low-sodium chicken broth. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes. Slightly raise the heat and let it simmer for about 3 minutes. This softens the tomatoes and blends the flavors. Lower the heat again and add 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Stir well. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Let everything simmer for another 2-3 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken a bit.

Tossing with Pasta

Time to combine! Gently fold the cooked pasta into the sauce. Make sure the creamy sauce hugs every piece of pasta. If you find the sauce too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. This will help reach your desired thickness.

Serving and Garnishing

Before serving, taste the pasta. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. This adds a bright look and fresh taste. Enjoy your Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

– Ensuring chicken remains tender: Cut the chicken into small, even pieces. This helps it cook faster and stay juicy. Sauté the chicken over medium heat. If you cook it too fast, it may dry out. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C).

– Tips for cooking pasta perfectly: Start with a large pot of salted water. The water should taste like the sea! Add your pasta and stir. Cook until al dente, which means firm to the bite. Drain it well, but save a bit of pasta water. This water can help thicken your sauce later.

Flavor Enhancement

– Adjusting spice levels: If you like heat, add more cayenne pepper. Start with a small amount, and taste as you go. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out once it’s in. Balance the heat with cream; it cools the spice while keeping the flavor rich.

– Choosing the right pasta type: Fettuccine works well, but you can use any pasta you love. Try penne or rigatoni for a fun twist. Just ensure the pasta shape can hold the sauce well. This way, every bite is packed with flavor.

Serving Suggestions

– Pairing with sides: A simple side salad goes great with this dish. Try a mix of greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. Garlic bread is another favorite. It soaks up the sauce and adds a crunchy texture.

– Wine pairings: A chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, matches nicely with the creamy sauce. If you prefer red, a light Pinot Noir works too. The key is to choose a wine that complements the flavors without overpowering them.

Pro Tips

  1. Cook Pasta Al Dente: To achieve the best texture, ensure you cook the pasta until it’s al dente. This means it should have a slight bite to it, which will hold up better when mixed with the sauce.
  2. Season the Chicken: Make sure to season the chicken pieces well with salt and pepper before cooking. This enhances the flavor of the chicken and adds depth to the overall dish.
  3. Adjust Spice Levels: The cayenne pepper adds heat, but you can adjust the amount to suit your taste. Start with less if you prefer a milder dish, and add more if you’re looking for a spicy kick.
  4. Reserve Pasta Water: Always reserve a bit of the pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water can be used to adjust the sauce’s consistency without diluting the flavor.

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

Alternative proteins

If you want to change the protein, try shrimp or tofu. Shrimp cooks fast and adds a nice taste. Tofu is a great choice for vegetarian meals. Just make sure to press it well to remove extra water.

Gluten-free pasta options

For gluten-free needs, use brown rice pasta or zucchini noodles. Brown rice pasta has a nice texture. Zucchini noodles are light and fresh. Both options work well with the sauce.

Dietary Adjustments

Dairy-free adaptations

To make this dish dairy-free, swap heavy cream for coconut cream. This gives the sauce a rich taste. Use dairy-free butter for the cowboy butter effect.

Low-carb options

If you’re cutting carbs, try using spaghetti squash instead of pasta. It’s low in carbs and has a fun texture. You can also use shirataki noodles for a lighter meal.

Flavor Additions

Adding vegetables

You can add spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for more nutrients. These veggies cook quickly and add color. Just toss them in when sautéing the chicken.

Additional herbs and spices

For more flavor, consider adding fresh basil or thyme. A pinch of crushed red pepper can add heat too. Don’t be afraid to mix up the spices to suit your taste.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta fresh, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.

Reheating Instructions

For reheating, the best method is on the stove. Use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. Stir gently until it is heated through. This method helps keep the pasta creamy and tasty.

Freezing Advice

If you choose to freeze, do so in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. Reheat on the stove as mentioned above. Avoid freezing with fresh parsley, as it may lose flavor.

FAQs

What is Cowboy Butter?

Cowboy Butter is a rich and flavorful sauce. It blends garlic, butter, and spices. The smoky taste comes from smoked paprika. The lemon adds a bright note. Together, these flavors create a zesty and creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta and chicken.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep this dish ahead of time. Cook the chicken and make the sauce. Store them in the fridge. When ready to eat, just heat them up. Cook the pasta fresh for the best taste and texture.

What type of pasta works best?

Fettuccine is the best choice for this dish. Its flat shape holds the sauce well. You can also use penne or rotini. Both choices work great too. Just ensure you cook the pasta until al dente for the best bite.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level can be adjusted easily. The recipe calls for cayenne pepper. Start with one teaspoon for a mild heat. If you like more heat, add more cayenne. Taste as you go to find your perfect spice level.

Now you know how to make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta. We covered key ingredients like chicken, pasta, garlic, and spices. You learned step-by-step instructions on how to cook everything perfectly. I also shared tips for enhancing flavor and variations for special diets. Plus, you got storage info to keep leftovers fresh. Cooking this dish is fun and simple. Be creative with flavors and enjoy every bite! Stick to these steps, and you will impress your family and friends with a delicious mea

- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces - 8 oz fettuccine or your choice of pasta - 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick) - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced The chicken is the star of this dish. It gives a rich, savory flavor. I like to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a tender bite. The pasta, ideally fettuccine, holds the sauce well. Butter adds creaminess and depth. Garlic brings an amazing aroma and taste. - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (increase or decrease to taste) Smoked paprika gives a nice depth to the dish. It adds a hint of smokiness that feels rustic. Dried oregano adds an earthy note that pairs perfectly. For heat, cayenne pepper is key. Adjust to your spice level for a custom kick. - Zest and juice of 1 lemon - 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1/2 cup heavy cream - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Lemon brightens up the dish with its fresh zest and juice. Chicken broth adds more flavor and body to the sauce. Cherry tomatoes offer sweetness and a pop of color. Heavy cream brings richness, making it all creamy and smooth. Lastly, fresh parsley adds a lovely touch to your plate. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, grab a large pot. Fill it with salted water and bring it to a boil. The water should be bubbling. Add 8 ounces of fettuccine. Cook it according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente, which means it's firm but not hard. This should take about 8-10 minutes. When it's done, drain the pasta in a colander. Save a bit of that pasta water; we might need it later. Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1/4 cup of unsalted butter. Wait until the butter melts and bubbles. This step gives the chicken a nice flavor. Now, add the diced chicken pieces. Sprinkle some salt, pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika on top. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes. It should turn golden brown and be fully cooked. Once done, take the chicken out and place it on a clean plate. In the same skillet, add the other 1/4 cup of butter. Let it melt over medium heat. Then, stir in 4 minced garlic cloves. Follow with the rest of the smoked paprika, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper. Squeeze the juice of 1 lemon and add its zest too. Cook this mix for 1-2 minutes. The garlic will smell great and turn slightly golden. Now, pour in 1/2 cup of low-sodium chicken broth. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes. Slightly raise the heat and let it simmer for about 3 minutes. This softens the tomatoes and blends the flavors. Lower the heat again and add 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Stir well. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Let everything simmer for another 2-3 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken a bit. Time to combine! Gently fold the cooked pasta into the sauce. Make sure the creamy sauce hugs every piece of pasta. If you find the sauce too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. This will help reach your desired thickness. Before serving, taste the pasta. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. This adds a bright look and fresh taste. Enjoy your Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta! - Ensuring chicken remains tender: Cut the chicken into small, even pieces. This helps it cook faster and stay juicy. Sauté the chicken over medium heat. If you cook it too fast, it may dry out. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C). - Tips for cooking pasta perfectly: Start with a large pot of salted water. The water should taste like the sea! Add your pasta and stir. Cook until al dente, which means firm to the bite. Drain it well, but save a bit of pasta water. This water can help thicken your sauce later. - Adjusting spice levels: If you like heat, add more cayenne pepper. Start with a small amount, and taste as you go. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out once it’s in. Balance the heat with cream; it cools the spice while keeping the flavor rich. - Choosing the right pasta type: Fettuccine works well, but you can use any pasta you love. Try penne or rigatoni for a fun twist. Just ensure the pasta shape can hold the sauce well. This way, every bite is packed with flavor. - Pairing with sides: A simple side salad goes great with this dish. Try a mix of greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. Garlic bread is another favorite. It soaks up the sauce and adds a crunchy texture. - Wine pairings: A chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, matches nicely with the creamy sauce. If you prefer red, a light Pinot Noir works too. The key is to choose a wine that complements the flavors without overpowering them. Pro Tips Cook Pasta Al Dente: To achieve the best texture, ensure you cook the pasta until it's al dente. This means it should have a slight bite to it, which will hold up better when mixed with the sauce. Season the Chicken: Make sure to season the chicken pieces well with salt and pepper before cooking. This enhances the flavor of the chicken and adds depth to the overall dish. Adjust Spice Levels: The cayenne pepper adds heat, but you can adjust the amount to suit your taste. Start with less if you prefer a milder dish, and add more if you're looking for a spicy kick. Reserve Pasta Water: Always reserve a bit of the pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water can be used to adjust the sauce's consistency without diluting the flavor. {{image_4}} Alternative proteins If you want to change the protein, try shrimp or tofu. Shrimp cooks fast and adds a nice taste. Tofu is a great choice for vegetarian meals. Just make sure to press it well to remove extra water. Gluten-free pasta options For gluten-free needs, use brown rice pasta or zucchini noodles. Brown rice pasta has a nice texture. Zucchini noodles are light and fresh. Both options work well with the sauce. Dairy-free adaptations To make this dish dairy-free, swap heavy cream for coconut cream. This gives the sauce a rich taste. Use dairy-free butter for the cowboy butter effect. Low-carb options If you're cutting carbs, try using spaghetti squash instead of pasta. It’s low in carbs and has a fun texture. You can also use shirataki noodles for a lighter meal. Adding vegetables You can add spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for more nutrients. These veggies cook quickly and add color. Just toss them in when sautéing the chicken. Additional herbs and spices For more flavor, consider adding fresh basil or thyme. A pinch of crushed red pepper can add heat too. Don't be afraid to mix up the spices to suit your taste. To keep your Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta fresh, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. For reheating, the best method is on the stove. Use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. Stir gently until it is heated through. This method helps keep the pasta creamy and tasty. If you choose to freeze, do so in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. Reheat on the stove as mentioned above. Avoid freezing with fresh parsley, as it may lose flavor. Cowboy Butter is a rich and flavorful sauce. It blends garlic, butter, and spices. The smoky taste comes from smoked paprika. The lemon adds a bright note. Together, these flavors create a zesty and creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta and chicken. Yes, you can prep this dish ahead of time. Cook the chicken and make the sauce. Store them in the fridge. When ready to eat, just heat them up. Cook the pasta fresh for the best taste and texture. Fettuccine is the best choice for this dish. Its flat shape holds the sauce well. You can also use penne or rotini. Both choices work great too. Just ensure you cook the pasta until al dente for the best bite. The spice level can be adjusted easily. The recipe calls for cayenne pepper. Start with one teaspoon for a mild heat. If you like more heat, add more cayenne. Taste as you go to find your perfect spice level. Now you know how to make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta. We covered key ingredients like chicken, pasta, garlic, and spices. You learned step-by-step instructions on how to cook everything perfectly. I also shared tips for enhancing flavor and variations for special diets. Plus, you got storage info to keep leftovers fresh. Cooking this dish is fun and simple. Be creative with flavors and enjoy every bite! Stick to these steps, and you will impress your family and friends with a delicious meal.

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

A creamy and flavorful pasta dish featuring sautéed chicken, garlic, and a rich butter sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 8 oz fettuccine or your choice of pasta
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 piece lemon, zest and juice
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • to taste fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving a little pasta water if desired.
  • Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet set over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup of the unsalted butter. Once the butter is bubbly, add the diced chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of the smoked paprika. Sauté the chicken for 6-8 minutes, or until it is golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a clean plate.
  • Prepare the Cowboy Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. As it melts, stir in the minced garlic, followed by the remaining smoked paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, and zest. Sauté the mixture for 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden.
  • Incorporate the Broth and Tomatoes: Add the low-sodium chicken broth to the skillet along with the halved cherry tomatoes. Raise the heat slightly and allow the mixture to simmer for approximately 3 minutes, giving the tomatoes time to soften and infuse their flavor into the broth.
  • Combine Chicken and Cream: Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream, stirring well to incorporate. Then return the cooked chicken to the skillet, allowing everything to simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens just a bit.
  • Toss with Pasta: Gently fold the cooked pasta into the skillet, ensuring that the creamy sauce clings to every strand. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
  • Serve and Garnish: Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for an added burst of color and flavor.

Notes

Adjust the cayenne pepper to taste for desired spice level.
Keyword butter sauce, chicken, creamy, pasta

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