Introduction

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a rich and creamy dish that brings bold, comforting flavors to your dinner table. With tender chicken, a buttery garlic sauce, and Parmesan cheese, this recipe is perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.

A close-up of a bowl filled with creamy pasta and grilled chicken pieces, showing wide, flat pasta noodles coated in a rich, light yellow sauce with a smooth texture, layered at the bottom. On top, there are several pieces of browned, slightly charred grilled chicken with a crispy surface, sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs and white grated cheese. A wedge of lime sits at the corner of the bowl. The bowl is white and placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 ounces pasta of your choice (e.g., penne or fettuccine)
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, 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)
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Sauté the minced garlic and diced onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes, to infuse the butter with flavor.
Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then stir in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Add reserved pasta water as needed to adjust the sauce consistency.
Step 5: Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat everything evenly with the sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and let it melt. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk, which gives a subtle sweetness and creamy texture.
Use gluten-free pasta if you need to avoid gluten without sacrificing flavor.
Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra vegetables and texture.
If you like more heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
Freshly grated Parmesan yields the best melting and flavor compared to pre-grated varieties.

Storage

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid using a microwave to prevent the sauce from separating.

How to Serve

A close-up view of creamy pasta in a white bowl on a white marbled surface. The dish has wide, flat pasta noodles coated in a rich, orange-colored creamy sauce with some browned spots from cooking. Small bits of green herbs are sprinkled evenly on top, adding contrast to the warm colors of the sauce and pasta. In the background, a slice of lime is partially visible, adding a fresh touch. The textures of the noodles look soft and smooth, while the sauce appears thick and luscious. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of protein instead of chicken?

Yes, this recipe works well with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the protein is fully cooked.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and substitute butter with a dairy-free margarine or olive oil. Also, omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.