Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta A Flavor-Packed Twist on Comfort Food - Featured Image

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta A Flavor-Packed Twist on Comfort Food

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Learn how to make delicious Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients that bring out the best in every bite. I’m a firm believer in using fresh garlic and herbs because they add vibrance you just can’t get from dried versions. When I shop for chicken, I always opt for skinless, boneless breasts or thighs—whichever feels juicier that day. And remember, quality butter and good Parmesan cheese make a huge difference here, bringing that silky texture and depth of flavor. If you don’t have fresh parsley or chives on hand, you can always substitute with dried herbs, but fresh is my preference for that bright finish.

  • 2 large skinless, boneless chicken breasts (or thighs for more richness)
  • 12 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni work beautifully)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped (for garnish)
  • Olive oil for cooking

Instructions

  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and a pinch of chili flakes if using.
  3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and let rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and oregano. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits—this is where a lot of the flavor lives! Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
  6. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce thickens and becomes silky, about 3-4 minutes. If the sauce feels too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
  7. Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken back into the skillet, tossing everything together to coat in the sauce. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
  8. Finish with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and freshness before serving.

  • Author: Jenny
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: International

Find it online: https://artofeasycooking.com/cowboy-butter-chicken-pasta/