Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta (Print-Friendly Version)
Seared chicken strips and pasta in a creamy, buttery sauce infused with garlic, herbs and a touch of heat for maximum flavor.
# What You'll Need:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
02 -
2 large chicken breasts, sliced into strips
03 -
2 tablespoons olive oil
04 -
1 tablespoon butter
05 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
06 -
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
07 -
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
08 -
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
09 -
1/2 teaspoon salt
10 -
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
11 -
1/2 cup chicken broth
12 -
1/2 cup heavy cream
13 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
14 -
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
15 -
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
# How to Make It:
01 -
Boil pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente according to package instructions. Drain, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
02 -
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken strips with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Sear chicken for 6-7 minutes until fully cooked and golden brown on the edges. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.
03 -
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Add chicken broth and simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
04 -
Stir in heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and thickened. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed. Optionally, add lemon juice for brightness.
05 -
Add cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet. Toss to fully coat with the sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
# Additional Tips:
01 -
Short pasta holds sauce well, but long pasta types like spaghetti also work.
02 -
Adjust spice level by altering chili flakes or adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
03 -
For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
04 -
Leftovers reheat well and make excellent meal-prep lunches.