Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the sizzle of butter echoing through the air, I knew I was about to create something special: Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta. In just 30 minutes, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a creamy comfort food that warms the soul. With its tender chicken nestled among perfectly cooked pasta and enveloped in a rich, buttery garlic sauce, it’s a delightful dinner solution that even the busiest weeknights can’t resist. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its quick prep but also in its versatility; you can easily adapt it to suit vegan and gluten-free diets without sacrificing flavor. What’s your go-to for a comforting meal after a long day? Why is Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta irresistible? Quick and Easy: Whip up this delectable dish in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings. Creamy Goodness: Heavy cream envelops every bite, creating a luscious sauce that’s truly satisfying. Versatile Options: Whether you’re vegan or gluten-free, substitutions easily accommodate your dietary needs without missing out on flavor. Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe is designed to impress, ensuring that everyone at the table leaves happy and full. Ultimate Comfort Food: It combines flavors and textures that evoke nostalgia, reminiscent of cozy family gatherings. Enjoy with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta Ingredients Unlock the secrets to this creamy delight with the perfect ingredients! For the Pasta Pasta – A hearty base; swap with gluten-free pasta for your dietary needs. For the Chicken Chicken Breast – A lean protein that brings heartiness; frozen chicken can save time. For the Sauce Butter – Richness and flavor are essential here; replace with olive oil for a healthy twist. Garlic – Fresh garlic is key for an aromatic kick; don’t skip this! Onion – Sweetness and depth come from yellow or white onions. Heavy Cream – This creates the creamy sauce; coconut milk works great for a vegan alternative. Chicken Broth – Adds moisture; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Parmesan Cheese – Nutty and creamy flavors elevate this dish; nutritional yeast is a wonderful vegan substitute. For the Seasoning Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs that enhances flavors; substitute with oregano, basil, and thyme if needed. Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a delightful heat; feel free to omit for a milder dish. Salt and Pepper – Essential to taste; adjust for perfect seasoning. For Garnish Fresh Parsley – Brightens both visually and flavor-wise; basil makes a great substitute too. Whip up this Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta tonight and savor each creamy bite! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta Step 1: Cook the Pasta Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add your choice of pasta and cook until al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes, checking occasionally. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside, ensuring it’s ready for the creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta that awaits. Step 2: Sauté the Chicken In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until bubbly. Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet, cooking for about 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest while preparing the sauce. Step 3: Make the Sauce In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until they’re translucent and fragrant. This forms the flavor base for your Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta, providing that delicious aroma that fills your kitchen. Step 4: Add the Liquids Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine the ingredients in the skillet. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much, gradually incorporate some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired creaminess. Step 5: Combine the Ingredients Once the sauce is rich and creamy, return the diced chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are well coated in the sauce. Heat through for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring all components of the Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta are equally warm and infused with flavor. Step 6: Serve and Garnish To finish your Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta, serve it warm on plates or in bowls. Top each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a vibrant touch. This display not only enhances the dish’s flavor but also makes it visually enticing for everyone at the table. Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta Variations Feel free to make this dish your own; it’s all about personal flavor preferences and dietary needs! Vegan Delight: Substitute chicken and cream with sautéed mushrooms and coconut cream for a rich, plant-based twist. You’ll enjoy the earthiness of mushrooms blending beautifully with the sauce. Gluten-Free Goodness: Use gluten-free pasta instead; it’ll cook just as perfectly with your rich sauce. This option ensures everyone at the table can partake in the deliciousness. Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or more red pepper flakes for an extra punch of heat. A little spice can turn up the flavor and make your taste buds dance! Creamy Medley: Incorporate half-and-half in place of heavy cream for a slightly lighter yet creamy option. It still delivers on smoothness without compromising the richness. Vegetable Boost: Toss in fresh spinach, bell peppers, or peas to add vibrant colors and nutrients. They’ll not only enhance the dish visually but also improve the nutritional profile, making it feel wholesome. Herbed Twist: Try adding fresh herbs like thyme or basil during cooking. These fragrant herbs will elevate the dish and bring a unique flavor dimension that everyone will love. Cheesy Dream: Replace Parmesan with a sprinkle of feta for a tangy flavor that complements the creaminess beautifully. It’s a flavorful surprise that can redefine your comfort food classic. Seafood Swap: For a coastal twist, swap chicken for shrimp and adjust cooking time. The sweet, succulent shrimp bring a completely different vibe to the dish, making it feel like a special occasion. No matter how you decide to tweak this dish, it promises to be a beloved meal at your table! If you’re interested in adding more greens, consider serving it with a fresh side salad or some garlic bread to round out your dinner. What to Serve with Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta Transform your meal into a feast by pairing it with delightful sides and drinks that complement every creamy bite! Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery crunch of garlic bread adds a perfect companion, perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce. Fresh Side Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette brings freshness and balances the dish’s richness. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies introduce earthy flavors and a delightful contrast to the textures of the pasta. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli not only adds a pop of color but also provides a nutritious element alongside the pasta. Caesar Salad: A classic with crisp romaine and tangy dressing, adding a punch of flavor that pairs beautifully with the creaminess. Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing drinks like lemonade or iced tea cleanse the palate and enhance your dining experience. Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with rich chocolate mousse, a luxurious dessert that will delight your guests. Helpful Tricks for Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta Ingredient Substitutions: Opt for plant-based ingredients like olive oil and coconut milk to transform the Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta into a vegan delight without sacrificing flavor. Perfect Pasta: Always reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy water can help adjust the sauce’s thickness and creaminess, ensuring every bite is delightful. Cook Chicken Safely: Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Undercooked chicken can spoil the dish and your dinner plans! Richness Control: If you want a lighter option, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream while still achieving that velvety texture. Add Vegetables: For a nutritional boost, toss in fresh spinach, peas, or roasted bell peppers to your Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta, bringing both color and health benefits. Storage Tips for Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to preserve freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce and restore creaminess. Room Temperature: Avoid leaving out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety. Make Ahead Options Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a fantastic dish for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the pasta and sauté the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Store the cooked pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and refrigerate the sautéed chicken separately to maintain its tenderness. You can also prepare the creamy sauce without the chicken, refrigerating it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce on low heat, add the chicken and pasta, and stir until warmed through. This ensures your meal is just as delicious with minimal effort on busy weeknights! Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe FAQs What type of pasta is best for Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta? Absolutely! You can use any pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti. For those following a gluten-free diet, simply swap in gluten-free pasta. Just ensure to follow the cooking instructions for your chosen pasta type for the best texture. How can I store leftover Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta? Very! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the pasta cools down completely before sealing the container to prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to help restore the creaminess of the sauce. Can I freeze Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta? Absolutely! You can freeze this dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Before freezing, make sure it is completely cooled. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the pasta in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of chicken broth to loosen the sauce, and heat until warmed through. What if the sauce is too thick while cooking? No worries! If your sauce becomes too thick while cooking, simply add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. This starchy water is perfect for adjusting the thickness of the sauce without altering the flavor. Are there any common allergies to consider with this recipe? It’s very important! The Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta contains common allergens like dairy (butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese) and gluten (pasta). For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the butter with olive oil and use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. How do I tell when the chicken is cooked properly? Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety. A meat thermometer is the best tool to ensure your chicken is fully cooked. If you don’t have one, look for the chicken to be golden brown on the outside and no longer pink on the inside. Remember, it can be a bummer if it’s undercooked! Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta in 30 Minutes or Less This Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a creamy comfort food that can be prepared in 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 600 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta8 ounces Pasta Can be substituted with gluten-free pasta.For the Chicken1 pound Chicken Breast Frozen chicken can save time.For the Sauce4 tablespoons Butter May be replaced with olive oil.4 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is essential.1 medium Onion Use yellow or white onions.1 cup Heavy Cream Coconut milk is a vegan alternative.1 cup Chicken Broth Vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast is a vegan substitute.For the Seasoning2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning Can substitute with oregano, basil, and thyme.1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional for added heat.to taste Saltto taste PepperFor Garnish1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Basil can be used as a substitute. Equipment large potLarge SkilletMeat thermometer Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, drain, and set aside.Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, add to skillet, and cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and let rest.In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter, then minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes, adding reserved pasta water as needed.Return chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss until well coated in sauce and heat through for 2 additional minutes.Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and parsley. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesFor a vegan version, use plant-based ingredients. Always reserve pasta water for adjusting sauce texture. Use a meat thermometer for chicken safety. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
