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One-Pan Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta: The Ultimate Comfort Food

This cowboy butter chicken pasta combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, spicy butter sauce all cooked together in one pan for maximum flavor with minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy families, it brings together bold garlic butter flavors with comforting pasta in a restaurant-quality meal ready in about 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 480
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle work well)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and half of the smoked paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and let it melt. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add pasta to the skillet along with chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
  4. Return chicken to the skillet. Stir in heavy cream, remaining smoked paprika, and oregano. Cook for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens slightly. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
  5. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Notes

Choose sturdy pasta shapes like penne or fusilli that hold sauce well. Adjust red pepper flakes to control spice level. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting texture. Don't overcook garlic to avoid bitterness.