Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta: Easy One-Pan Weeknight Dinner
Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta: Easy One-Pan Weeknight Dinner
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this incredible Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta! This one-pan wonder combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and an irresistible garlic butter sauce that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want maximum flavor with minimal cleanup.
What makes cowboy butter sauce so special? It’s a perfect blend of butter, garlic, herbs, and a hint of spice that coats every ingredient beautifully. This recipe brings together convenience and comfort food in one skillet.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli work great)
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season cubed chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta Base
In the same skillet, add pasta and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
Step 3: Create the Cowboy Butter Sauce
Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together until well coated. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.
Expert Tips
- Pasta Choice: Short pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni work best as they hold the sauce beautifully
- Don’t Overcook: Cook pasta just until al dente since it will continue cooking in the sauce
- Spice Level: Adjust red pepper flakes to your preference – use less for mild, more for extra heat
- Make Ahead: You can prep the chicken and sauce ingredients ahead for even quicker assembly
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Yes! Chicken thighs work wonderfully and add extra flavor. Adjust cooking time as needed.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free.
What sides go well with this dish?
This pasta pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta: Easy One-Pan Weeknight Dinner
Ingredients
Method
- Season cubed chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add pasta and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
- Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together until well coated. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.
