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Ultimate Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe - One Pan Creamy Comfort Food

This cowboy butter chicken pasta is a one-pan wonder that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich creamy butter sauce with garlic, herbs, and spices. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in just 30 minutes with minimal cleanup and creates a comforting dish that feels both indulgent and approachable.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 580
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or your favorite shape)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and half of the smoked paprika. Cook until golden brown on all sides, 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 until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  3. Add chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer, then add the pasta. Cook according to package directions, stirring occasionally.
  4. Once pasta is al dente, reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, remaining smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, and parsley. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
  5. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and everything is well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Use good quality Parmesan cheese that you grate yourself for better melting. Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor. Pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or crusty bread. Reheats well for meal prep - store in airtight containers and reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream.