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Creamy butter chicken pasta served in a bowl with herbs and spices

Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

A cozy, indulgent pasta dish with a rich butter and cream sauce, tender chicken, and smoky paprika, perfect for any weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta ingredients
  • 8 oz pasta Use penne, fusilli, or bowtie pasta for best sauce clinging.
Main ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons butter For sautéing the chicken and flavoring the sauce.
  • 1 pound chicken breast, diced Boneless, skinless works best; thighs can add more moisture.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Adds flavor; keep it moving in the pan to avoid burning.
  • 1 cup heavy cream For a rich sauce.
  • 1 cup chicken broth Can substitute with white wine for deglazing.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Smoked for depth, sweet for milder flavor.
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • for garnish Fresh parsley, chopped Enhances presentation and flavor.

Method
 

Cooking Pasta
  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Tip: Salt the boiling water well for seasoning and undercook by a minute if finishing in the sauce.
Cooking Chicken
  1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
  2. Tip: Pat chicken dry for better searing and avoid overcrowding the pan.
Adding Garlic and Sauce Ingredients
  1. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
  2. Tip: Keep garlic moving to prevent burning.
  3. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then stir in paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Tip: Deglaze with broth or white wine for added flavor.
Simmering Sauce
  1. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
  2. Tip: Stir in pasta water if the sauce gets too thick.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
  1. Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until well coated.
  2. Tip: Use tongs for even coating and finish with extra butter or cream if desired.
  3. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

For variations, consider roasting the chicken instead of pan-searing, adding seasonal vegetables, or using dairy alternatives for lighter versions. Store leftovers for 3-4 days in the fridge and reheat gently.