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cowboy-butter-chicken-pasta-recipe--easy--creamy-and-flavorful---k-popkitchen_feature

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta: Easy Creamy Weeknight Dinner Recipe

This cowboy butter chicken pasta brings big flavor to your weeknight dinner routine with a creamy, garlicky, and slightly spicy sauce. It's a one-pan wonder combining tender chicken and pasta that's ready in under 30 minutes for a comforting family meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 8 oz pasta of choice (penne, fettuccine, or rotini work well)
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Cook pasta according to package directions
  2. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in large skillet over medium-high heat
  3. Add chicken pieces seasoned with salt and pepper, cook 5-7 minutes until golden brown
  4. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside
  5. Reduce heat to medium, add remaining 2 tablespoons butter
  6. Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant
  7. Stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes
  8. Pour in chicken broth and scrape up browned bits from pan
  9. Add heavy cream and bring to gentle simmer
  10. Return cooked chicken and drained pasta to skillet
  11. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce thickens
  12. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately

Notes

Pat chicken dry before cooking for better browning. Adjust Cajun seasoning for preferred spice level. Add more cream for creamier sauce. Pairs well with green salad or steamed vegetables.