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Ultimate Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta: One Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Dinner

This Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and an irresistible creamy garlic butter sauce—all made in one pan. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this family-friendly recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season cubed chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, oregano, and thyme, cooking for another 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
  3. Add chicken broth and heavy cream to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer, then add the uncooked pasta. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and sauce has thickened.
  4. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with grated parmesan cheese. Stir until cheese is melted and everything is well combined. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

For extra flavor, use chicken thighs instead of breasts—they stay juicier during cooking. If you prefer more vegetables, add sliced bell peppers or mushrooms when cooking the garlic. Make it spicy by increasing red pepper flakes to 1 teaspoon. Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option—it pairs perfectly with the rich butter sauce.