Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta – One Pan Garlic Butter Chicken Dinner
Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta – One Pan Garlic Butter Chicken Dinner
This cowboy butter chicken pasta is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich garlic butter sauce all cooked in one pan. Ready in just 30 minutes, this family-friendly recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal cleanup. The creamy butter sauce infused with garlic and herbs makes every bite irresistible.
If you love easy skillet dinners, you’ll also enjoy our Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Potatoes for another simple one-pan meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite shape)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Step 2: In the same skillet, add remaining butter and minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Step 3: Add pasta to the skillet, making sure it’s submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
Step 4: Return chicken to the skillet. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
Step 5: Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while hot.
Expert Tips
For the best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-shredded for a smoother sauce. Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken – work in batches if needed. The pasta will continue to absorb sauce as it sits, so serve immediately for the creamiest texture.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and pairs well with our Healthy Broccoli Salad for a complete meal.
FAQ
Can I use different pasta shapes?
Yes! Penne, fettuccine, rigatoni, or bow ties all work well. Adjust cooking time according to package directions.
How do I make it spicier?
Increase the red pepper flakes to 1 teaspoon or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add more flavor and remain juicy. Cook time may need slight adjustment.
For more creamy pasta inspiration, try our Cajun Chicken Spaghetti or Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta for variety.
Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta – One Pan Garlic Butter Chicken Dinner
Ingredients
Method
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add remaining butter and minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add pasta to the skillet, making sure it’s submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
- Return chicken to the skillet. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while hot.
