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Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Hearty Dinner - Featured Image

Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Hearty Dinner

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

  • 12 ounces penne pasta (or any pasta shape you love)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds that classic cowboy smoky flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth if you prefer)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (for a lighter version, substitute half with milk)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for a pop of color and freshness)

Substitution tip: If you’re short on time or want to keep it even simpler, rotisserie chicken works beautifully here, and you can swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder melt.

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the chicken pieces.
  3. Sprinkle the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper over the chicken. Stir well to coat.
  4. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s cooked through and starting to brown on the edges. From experience, not rushing this step gives you those delicious caramelized bits that really bring the flavor home.
  5. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it—garlic can go from perfect to bitter in seconds!
  6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it reduce slightly for about 3-4 minutes. This step helps concentrate the flavors and keeps the sauce from being watery.
  7. Lower the heat to medium-low, then stir in the heavy cream. Let it warm through, about 2 minutes, without boiling.
  8. Mix in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. This is where your sauce really comes together—rich, buttery, and cheesy.
  9. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the noodles are well coated with the sauce.
  10. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Sometimes I like to add a pinch more smoked paprika or a little more cheese, depending on how the day’s been going.
  11. Remove from heat and sprinkle with sliced green onions and freshly chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
  12. Serve immediately—because pasta this good waits for no one.

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

Keywords: Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta, recipe, cooking, food