Save A bold, creamy pasta dish featuring tender chicken, zesty spices, and a buttery garlic-Parmesan sauce with a hint of cayenne. Perfect for a comforting dinner with a kick.
I first served this Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta to my family on a chilly evening, and the rich flavors quickly made it a favorite comfort dish in our home.
Ingredients
- Chicken & Seasoning: 450 g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference), Salt and pepper, to taste, 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Sauce: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, 4 cloves garlic, minced, 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth, 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, 1 cup (60 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, Juice of half a lemon, 1/3 cup finely chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
- Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) fettuccine or pasta of choice
Instructions
- Season Chicken:
- Season the chicken pieces with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Cook Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6 8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic:
- Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add Broth:
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a simmer.
- Add Cream:
- Stir in heavy cream and simmer 2 3 minutes.
- Melt Cheese:
- Gradually add Parmesan, stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce:
- Return chicken to skillet. Add lemon juice and chopped parsley stir to combine.
- Cook Pasta:
- Meanwhile, cook pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and add to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly.
- Simmer Together:
- Cook for 2 3 minutes more to let flavors meld.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.
Save This dish brings my family together every time, sparking conversations and warm smiles around the dinner table.
Notes
Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Any pasta shape works; try penne or rigatoni. Adjust cayenne to taste for spice level.
Tools Required
Large skillet, Large pot for boiling pasta, Chefs knife, Cutting board, Measuring cups and spoons, Wooden spoon or spatula, Colander
Allergen Information
Contains: Dairy (butter, cream, Parmesan), Wheat (pasta). May contain: Gluten (pasta) check pasta packaging for gluten-free options if needed. Always verify ingredient labels if you have food allergies.
Save This Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is perfect for any night you want something both satisfying and simple to prepare.
Recipe Guide
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Fettuccine pairs wonderfully, but any pasta shape like penne or rigatoni can hold the creamy sauce well.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Modify the amount of cayenne pepper to your preference for a milder or bolder heat in the sauce.
- → Can I substitute half-and-half for heavy cream?
Yes, half-and-half can lighten the sauce while maintaining a creamy texture, though the sauce will be less rich.
- → What is the best way to ensure chicken is cooked properly?
Cook chicken pieces until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe and tender results.
- → Are there vegetarian alternatives for this dish?
You can substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or firm tofu to keep a rich, savory flavor profile.
- → Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
The sauce is best fresh, but you can prepare it in advance and gently reheat before mixing with pasta and chicken.