Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta
A quick and easy pasta dish wrapped in creamy goodness, featuring tender chicken and flavorful seasonings.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts Make sure they are evenly sized for even cooking.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For cooking the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon paprika For seasoning the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt Adjust according to taste.
- 0.5 teaspoon pepper Adjust according to taste.
For the Sauce
- 6 tablespoons butter Melted in the skillet.
- 6 cloves garlic, minced For flavoring the sauce.
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice Adds tanginess.
- 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes For a bit of heat.
- 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped For garnishing.
- 1 tablespoon chives, chopped For garnishing.
- 1 cup heavy cream For a creamy sauce.
- 0.75 cup Parmesan cheese, grated Adds richness.
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta Use your preferred shape.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Once cooked, reserve ½ cup of the pasta water and then drain the rest.
- Season the chicken breasts with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Cooking
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix well.
- Pour in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss in the cooked pasta, mixing well to ensure everything is coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Stir in the fresh parsley and chives.
Serving
- Plate the pasta and serve it with extra Parmesan cheese and cracked pepper if desired.
Notes
This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if necessary.