Introduction

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a rich, creamy dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a flavorful buttery sauce and Parmesan cheese. This hearty pasta meal is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or when you want to impress without complicated steps.

The dish is served in a white bowl filled with wide, flat pasta noodles as the base layer, showing a light yellow color with a soft texture. On top of the pasta, there is a thick, creamy orange sauce that covers the noodles almost fully. Mixed into the sauce are many pieces of cooked chicken cubes, which are slightly browned and tender looking. The entire dish is sprinkled with finely grated white cheese and small green herb leaves scattered evenly, giving a fresh touch. The background is a white marbled surface, adding a clean and bright feel to the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

500 g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
340 g (12 oz) fettuccine or pasta of choice
Juice of half a lemon

Instructions

Step 1: Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Reduce the skillet heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
Step 5: Stir in the heavy cream and let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
Step 7: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to combine with the sauce. Add lemon juice and chopped parsley, stirring to mix.
Step 8: In a separate pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and add to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce and chicken.
Step 9: Cook for another 2-3 minutes to ensure the pasta is well combined and heated through.
Step 10: Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley.

Tips & Variations

Use smoked paprika for a subtle smoky depth or substitute with regular paprika if preferred.
For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra veggies and flavor.
Adjust cayenne pepper to control the spice level based on your preference.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and enhances the sauce’s creaminess.

Storage

Store leftover Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with wide egg noodles forming the base layer, their yellow color visible around the edges, topped with chunks of cooked chicken that look tender and are covered in a thick, creamy orange sauce. The sauce has a smooth texture with visible specks of seasoning, covering both the chicken and noodles. The dish is finished with a sprinkle of grated white cheese and small pieces of green parsley scattered on top, adding a fresh touch. The bowl rests on a white marbled textured surface. 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 pasta?

Yes, any pasta you prefer works well in this recipe. Fettuccine, penne, or even rotini are great alternatives that hold the sauce nicely.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and refrigerate separately from the pasta. Reheat gently and combine just before serving to maintain texture and flavor.