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Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta in Just 35 Minutes

This Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish ready in just 35 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Pasta Choose fettuccine, penne, or any type you love.
For the Chicken
  • 1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Try substituting with turkey or tofu.
For the Sauce
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Olive oil is a lighter option.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced; garlic powder can be used (1/2 tsp).
  • 1 tsp Paprika Smoked paprika adds depth.
  • 1 tsp Italian Seasoning Dried oregano and basil work well as substitutes.
  • 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Optional; adjust to taste.
  • Salt Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
  • Pepper Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half can be a lighter option.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Pecorino Romano can be used as an alternative.
For Garnish
  • Fresh Parsley Chopped; basil can be a replacement.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in 12 ounces of your favorite pasta, cooking according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Cook 1 pound of seasoned chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet.
  3. In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1/4 cup of butter. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and optional 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors.
  5. Pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream, stirring well. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Return the cooked chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces, back to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss to coat everything in the sauce.
  7. Sprinkle in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  8. Plate your Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta, garnishing with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm, alongside garlic bread or a fresh salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This dish can be made ahead and reheated. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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