Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta
Ever had a pasta dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly night?
If you haven’t tried Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta, then you’re in for a treat! With its creamy sauce mingling perfectly with tender chicken and pasta, this dish has taken the internet by storm. Not only is it quick and easy to whip up, but it’s also a one-pan wonder that makes cleanup a breeze. Trust me, your taste buds will be sending thank-you notes!
Why Make This Recipe
Here’s why you’ll want to add this dish to your weekly roster:
- Easy Cleanup: With everything cooked in one pan, you can say goodbye to the dreaded dish pile-up.
- Family-Friendly: Who can resist creamy, cheesy pasta? It’s a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Quick and Affordable: You can make this showstopper in under 30 minutes without breaking the bank. Talk about a win-win!
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 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 chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
Here’s how to create this creamy deliciousness:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.
- Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 6-8 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Create the Sauce: Using the same skillet, add the remaining butter and sauté the minced garlic and diced onion until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add Cream and Broth: Stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Toss in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken: Return the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and toss everything to coat in the sauce. Let it cook for an extra 2 minutes.
- Serve: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and garnish with fresh parsley.
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta (Overview)
Making Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is like riding a gentle wave of comfort food bliss. Start by cooking your favorite pasta—trust me, al dente is not just a fancy term; it really does elevate the dish!
While that bubbles away, cook up your chicken to golden perfection. Then, in the same skillet, sauté garlic and onion. After that, add that rich heavy cream and broth. It thickens into deliciousness before you know it! Lastly, combine everything, and let the magic happen for just a couple more minutes. Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic — it makes all the difference! 🍝
How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta
Serve up your Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for that pop of color. Pair it with a side of garlicky bread for that crunch that complements the creamy pasta beautifully. The aroma will fill your kitchen, and your guests will be begging for seconds before you even take your first bite!
How to Store Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, you can freeze it for about 3 months. Just remember to reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to revive that creamy goodness!
Tips to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta
- Timing is key: Make sure your water is boiling before adding the pasta. Nobody likes overcooked noodles!
- Ingredient swaps: Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp or veggies for a fun twist.
- Texture tips: If you like a little crunch, toss in some toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs before serving.
Variation
Want to jazz it up a bit? Try adding spinach or mushrooms. If you’re looking for a vegan option, you can swap the chicken for chickpeas and use cashew cream instead of heavy cream. Endless possibilities! 🌱
FAQs
1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Absolutely! Whole grain pasta works great and is a healthier alternative.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Just prepare everything up to the combining phase and store it. When ready to eat, simply combine and heat it up.
3. What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
Nutritional yeast makes a fantastic cheesy substitute for a dairy-free option.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 6-8 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Using the same skillet, add the remaining butter and sauté the minced garlic and diced onion until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Toss in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Return the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and toss everything to coat in the sauce. Let it cook for an extra 2 minutes.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and garnish with fresh parsley.
