Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe – Creamy One Pan Family Dinner
Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe – Creamy One Pan Family Dinner
Get ready for the most flavorful cowboy butter chicken pasta that will become your new favorite weeknight dinner! This creamy, spicy pasta dish combines tender chicken, bold seasonings, and a rich butter sauce that comes together in just one pan. It’s the perfect comfort food that’s easy enough for busy weekdays but impressive enough for company.
This cowboy butter chicken pasta recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. The combination of garlic butter, savory chicken, and a touch of spice creates an unforgettable meal that satisfies everyone around the table. Plus, it all cooks in one skillet for easy cleanup!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cubed
- 8 oz pasta of choice (penne or bowtie work great)
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by cooking your pasta according to package directions until al dente. While the pasta cooks, season the chicken cubes with salt, pepper, and half of the smoked paprika.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the remaining smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and oregano.
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together until well coated in the creamy cowboy butter sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes to heat through.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or crusty bread.
Expert Tips
For the best cowboy butter chicken pasta, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-shredded for smoother melting. Don’t overcook the chicken – it should be tender and juicy. If you prefer less spice, reduce the cayenne pepper to 1/4 teaspoon.
This recipe is incredibly versatile – try adding sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking. For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of lemon juice at the end.
If you love this cowboy butter chicken pasta, you might also enjoy our Creamy Tuscan Salmon or our popular Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta.
FAQ
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely! This cowboy butter sauce works wonderfully with shrimp or beef instead of chicken.
How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to refresh the sauce.
Can I make this dish vegetarian? Yes! Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
For more easy pasta dinners, check out our Monterey Chicken Spaghetti and Bruschetta Pasta recipes.
Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe – Creamy One Pan Family Dinner
Ingredients
Method
- Start by cooking your pasta according to package directions until al dente. While the pasta cooks, season the chicken cubes with salt, pepper, and half of the smoked paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the remaining smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and oregano.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together until well coated in the creamy cowboy butter sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
