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cowboy-butter-chicken-pasta-recipe--easy--creamy-and-flavorful---k-popkitchen_feature

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta: Easy Creamy Western Dinner Recipe

Saddle up for a flavor adventure with this irresistible cowboy butter chicken pasta that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, creamy butter sauce infused with bold Western spices. This easy one-pan dinner is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine work well)
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. While pasta cooks, season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and half of the smoked paprika. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in remaining smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, and onion powder.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Return cooked chicken to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency.
  6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Use high-quality butter for best flavor. Don't skip reserving pasta water - it helps create a silky sauce. Can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt for lighter version.