Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe

Growing up, Sunday dinners were a big deal in our house. My mom would whip up her signature pasta dishes, filling the kitchen with the most comforting aromas. One of my all-time favorites was her Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe. It's a dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy sauce, and that satisfying pasta goodness, making it the ultimate comfort food. I can still picture us gathered around the table, laughter and stories flowing as freely as the pasta did!

This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal. It's simple enough to make when life gets hectic, yet special enough to impress friends. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover chicken you might have. So grab your apron, and let's dive into this delicious Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta together!

Why You'll Love "Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe"

• Quick to prepare - ready in just 30 minutes!
• Uses minimal ingredients - most are pantry staples.
• Family-friendly - a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Versatile - swap out ingredients based on what you have.
• Freezer-friendly - perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Ingredients You'll Need

• 12 oz pasta (Any shape works beautifully, including gluten-free options.)
• 1 lb chicken breast (Opt for fresh or thawed frozen.)
• 2 tablespoon butter (Can substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (Fresh garlic provides the best taste.)
• 1 medium onion, diced (Shallots can be used for a milder flavor.)
• 1 cup heavy cream (Coconut milk or cashew cream are great dairy-free alternatives.)
• 1 cup chicken broth (Vegetable broth works for a vegetarian version.)
• 2 tablespoon Italian seasoning (Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor.)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (Adjust based on your heat preference.)
• 1 teaspoon salt (Feel free to adjust to taste.)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper (Use freshly ground for the best flavor.)
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (Nutritional yeast is a vegan alternative.)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes, but check the package for specifics!
3. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. Don't forget to save a little pasta water if you want to adjust the sauce later!

Prepare the Chicken

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Let it get nice and bubbly, but be careful not to let it brown too much.
2. Add the chicken breast to the skillet, seasoning it lightly with salt and pepper.
3. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until it's browned and cooked through. You'll want it to reach an internal temperature of 165°F, so don't hesitate to check!

Sauté Aromatics

1. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
2. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

Make the Sauce

1. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine all those delicious bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet.
2. Add the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for 5-7 minutes. This lets the flavors meld beautifully!

Combine and Serve

1. Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce, tossing to combine everything evenly. If the sauce seems a bit thick, you can add a splash of the saved pasta water to loosen it up.
2. Finally, mix in the sliced chicken and give it a good toss to coat everything in that creamy goodness.
3. Top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving, and watch everyone gather around the table!

Variations

• Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies and flavor.
• Use zoodles or whole wheat pasta for a lighter, healthier option.
• Spice it up by adding diced jalapeños or using a spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken.
• For a seasonal twist, incorporate roasted butternut squash or cherry tomatoes.
• Make it dairy-free by swapping heavy cream with coconut milk and leaving out the cheese.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Serve your Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of color. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread to soak up that creamy sauce. Don't forget a nice glass of white wine or sparkling water to complete the meal!

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove, adding a splash of broth or milk if it seems dry.

Helpful Notes

• For a lighter version, use olive oil instead of butter and whole wheat pasta.
• Feel free to add in some cooked broccoli or peas for extra nutrition.
• If you're dairy-free, use coconut cream and nutritional yeast in place of cheese.
• Leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken can be used for quicker prep!
• Adjust the heat by varying the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta?

Yes, you can freeze Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or milk to restore its creamy texture.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you need a substitute for heavy cream, you can use coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free option. You can also blend equal parts milk and butter to create a makeshift heavy cream, or use evaporated milk for a lighter version.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta gluten-free, simply swap out regular pasta for a gluten-free pasta variety. There are plenty of delicious options available, like brown rice, quinoa, or chickpea pasta that work beautifully in this recipe!

Final Thoughts

I hope you give this Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe a try, because it truly is a delightful dish that brings everyone together. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it's bound to become a favorite at your table too. Remember, cooking should be fun and filled with love, so don't stress about perfection - just enjoy the process! I can't wait to hear how yours turns out and see how you put your own spin on it. So grab that spatula, and let's make some tasty memories together!