Introduction

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s both comforting and easy to prepare. With tender chicken, a rich butter sauce, and just the right amount of spice, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

A close-up view of a creamy pasta dish served on a white plate with a white marbled texture background. The bottom layer consists of wide, flat noodles coated in a rich, light orange creamy sauce, with a smooth and slightly glossy texture. On top are golden-brown grilled chicken pieces, seasoned and slightly charred, scattered evenly across the noodles. Finely chopped green herbs are sprinkled over everything, adding bursts of color. A light dusting of grated cheese is also visible on the chicken and pasta. A lime wedge is partially visible in the top right corner, adding a fresh green touch. 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 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 the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set 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. 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, stirring to combine. Add Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. If too thick, stir in reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
Step 5: Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Toss to coat everything evenly and cook for another 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 6: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and allow it to melt into the sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta!

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a little garlic and Italian seasoning before cooking.
Swap heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it will be less rich.
Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for more texture and color.
Adjust red pepper flakes to control the heat level according to your preference.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with creamy pasta coated in a rich, light orange sauce, with spiral-shaped noodles forming the base layer. On top are several pieces of grilled chicken, browned and slightly charred, scattered evenly across the pasta. Bright green chopped herbs are sprinkled over the dish, adding a fresh contrast to the warm colors. Black pepper is also visible on the chicken and pasta, giving texture to the smooth sauce. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, this recipe works well with penne, fettuccine, or any pasta shape you prefer. Choose options that hold sauce well for the best result.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely. Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy.