Introduction

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is an easy and creamy dish packed with rich flavors and a hint of spice. Combining tender chicken, a buttery garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe makes a comforting meal for any night of the week.

This dish shows wide, flat pasta noodles covered in a thick, creamy, light orange sauce with specks of black pepper and herbs. On top, there are many pieces of golden brown grilled chicken with char marks, adding texture and a rich appearance. Bright green chopped herbs are sprinkled all over the chicken and pasta, giving a fresh contrast. A slice of lime with a bright yellow-green color is placed near the edge of the dish. Everything is shown on a white plate, set against a white marbled texture background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 ounces pasta of your choice (e.g., penne or fettuccine)
1 pound chicken breast, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, diced
1 cup heavy cream (or substitute with coconut milk for a lighter option)
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining and set it aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, stirring occasionally. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Sauté the minced garlic and diced onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes, to infuse the butter with flavor.
Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if it gets too thick.
Step 5: Return the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Toss everything together so the chicken and pasta are coated with the creamy sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
Step 6: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and allow it to melt. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta warm!

Tips & Variations

For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or half-and-half.
Adjust red pepper flakes to control the spice level, or omit for a milder dish.
Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences without compromising flavor.
Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables and nutrients.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and enhances the sauce compared to pre-grated varieties.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. Avoid microwaving at high power as it may cause the sauce to separate.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with creamy pasta coated in thick, shiny orange sauce, with grilled chicken pieces scattered evenly on top. The chicken is golden brown with slight charring and visible grill marks. The pasta is curly and densely layered beneath and around the chicken, covered fully by the sauce that has a smooth, rich texture. Small chopped green herbs are sprinkled over the dish, adding a fresh contrast to the warm colors, with specks of black pepper visible. The photo is taken against a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of chicken?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and add extra tenderness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese are good alternatives. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor.