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

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta - Easy Creamy Western Style Recipe

This cowboy butter chicken pasta combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce with just the right amount of kick. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want 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: 650
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite shape)
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and half of the smoked paprika. Heat olive oil in 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 garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the remaining smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, and thyme.
  4. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency.
  6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. For extra flavor, top with additional Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Always salt your pasta water generously - it should taste like the sea! Don't boil the cream sauce vigorously - a gentle simmer is all you need to prevent curdling. Start with 1/4 tsp cayenne if sensitive to heat.