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easy cowboy butter chicken pasta weeknight win

Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta: A 30-Minute Flavor Explosion


  • Author: Ella Parker
  • Total Time: 30 mins
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Description

A quick and flavorful pasta dish with tender chicken and rich cowboy butter sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
  • 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Season chicken with salt and black pepper. Cook in a large skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Stir for 1 minute.
  4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Simmer for 2 minutes.
  5. Add cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly.
  6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and mix well. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Adjust cayenne pepper for desired spice level.
  • Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
  • Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for variation.
  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 20 mins
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: easy cowboy butter chicken pasta, weeknight dinner, quick pasta recipe