Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta
Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a comforting dish packed with tender chicken pieces coated in a rich, buttery sauce that’s full of bold, smoky flavors. The pasta soaks up the…
Tip: save now, cook later.Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a comforting dish packed with tender chicken pieces coated in a rich, buttery sauce that’s full of bold, smoky flavors. The pasta soaks up the creamy sauce perfectly, making every bite a delicious mix of textures and tastes you’ll want to savor. This is the kind of meal that feels both hearty and satisfying, ideal for when you want something simple but special.
I love how easy it comes together but still feels like a treat. The butter sauce has a nice kick with just enough spices to keep things interesting without being overwhelming. Whenever I make this, I find myself adding a bit of fresh parsley on top for a little color and a fresh note that balances the richness.
This pasta dinner reminds me of cozy nights when comfort food is exactly what you need. It’s great for a quick weeknight meal or when you have friends over and want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. I usually serve it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up every last bit of that buttery sauce. Simple, delicious, and sure to make everyone at the table smile.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts cook quickly and stay tender. You can swap for thighs if you prefer juicier, more flavorful meat.
Butter & Olive Oil: Butter adds richness and smooth texture, while olive oil helps brown the chicken. Use all butter for extra creaminess or all oil if you want less saturated fat.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a subtle smoky taste, while chili powder and cumin add warmth. Adjust cayenne for heat or leave it out if you like mild flavors.
Heavy Cream & Parmesan: These create the sauce’s velvety texture and cheesy depth. For a lighter option, try half-and-half or coconut milk, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Egg Noodles: Their wavy shape holds sauce nicely. You can use fusilli, rotini, or any short pasta if egg noodles aren’t on hand.
How Can You Make the Creamy Sauce Smooth and Flavorful?
The sauce is the heart of this dish, so it’s important to get it just right:
- After cooking the onions and garlic, pour in the chicken broth and simmer to deglaze the pan. This picks up all the tasty bits stuck to the bottom.
- Add heavy cream and Parmesan, then let the sauce gently simmer (not boil) until thickened. Stir often to prevent burning.
- Season carefully and taste as you go to balance richness and spices.
- If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it.
- Once the chicken and pasta are added, toss everything gently so the sauce coats evenly without breaking apart the pasta.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking chicken and making the sauce all in one pan.
- Large pot – to boil your pasta until it’s just right.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring without scratching your pan.
- Colander – for draining the pasta easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your spices and liquids accurate for the best taste.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for diced smoked sausage for a smoky, hearty twist that pairs well with the buttery sauce.
- Add sautéed bell peppers and mushrooms to boost veggies and add texture.
- Stir in shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a cheesier, more melty pasta experience.
- Mix in a handful of fresh spinach or kale at the end for a fresh green boost that wilts nicely in the sauce.
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta:
- 12 oz egg noodles or pasta of choice
For The Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter (for cooking the chicken)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For The Sauce:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook. In roughly 30 minutes total, you’ll have a comforting and creamy chicken pasta ready to enjoy, perfect for a weekday dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the chicken and sauce.
2. Preparing the Chicken:
Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Heat olive oil or 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through—this usually takes 6 to 8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
3. Making the Sauce and Combining:
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and melt it. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, scraping up any bits stuck to the pan for extra flavor. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese and let the sauce gently simmer and thicken for 3 to 5 minutes. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir it into the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss it all together so the noodles are coated nicely with the sauce and heated through.
Serve your Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of black pepper if you like.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture for better browning.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! For a lighter option, use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich and creamy. Coconut milk works too for a dairy-free twist.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Yes! While egg noodles are great for holding the sauce, fusilli, rotini, or penne all work well and make tasty alternatives.