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Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

A creamy pasta dish coated in a buttery, garlic-infused sauce with tender chicken and a hint of heat, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces Pasta of your choice (e.g., penne or fettuccine)
  • 1 pound Chicken breast, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 4 tablespoons Butter (unsalted recommended)
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 medium Onion, diced
  • 1 cup Heavy cream (or coconut milk for a lighter option)
  • 1 cup Chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Don’t forget to reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining!
  2. Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once hot, add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Sauté until cooked through and golden brown, around 7-8 minutes.
  3. Add the Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and diced onion. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Build the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Scrape any bits stuck to the pan for extra flavor! Stir in the heavy cream and the Italian seasoning.
  5. Incorporate Cheese: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and combines into the sauce for a creamy texture.
  6. Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet, mixing thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated in that luscious sauce. If it feels too thick, add a bit more pasta water until it’s just right!
  7. Finish with Flavor: Sprinkle the red pepper flakes, then taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Notes

Serve with crusty bread and a green salad for a complete meal. Consider adding seasonal veggies for a wholesome twist.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta, chicken, creamy, buttery, comfort food