Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta (Print)

Tender chicken and rich garlic-Parmesan sauce coat perfectly cooked pasta for a bold, creamy dish.

# What you'll need:

→ Chicken & Seasoning

01 - 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
02 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
03 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
05 - 1/2 to 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, adjusted to taste
06 - Salt, to taste
07 - Black pepper, to taste
08 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ Sauce

09 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
10 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
11 - 1 cup chicken broth
12 - 1 cup heavy cream
13 - 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
14 - Juice of half a lemon
15 - 1/3 cup finely chopped fresh parsley, plus additional for garnish

→ Pasta

16 - 12 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice

# Directions:

01 - Combine chicken pieces with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 6 to 8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
03 - Reduce heat to medium and melt butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
04 - Pour in chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release browned bits, then bring to a simmer.
05 - Stir in heavy cream and allow to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to thicken slightly.
06 - Gradually add Parmesan cheese while stirring until fully melted and smooth.
07 - Return cooked chicken to the skillet, add lemon juice and chopped parsley, stirring to combine evenly.
08 - In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
09 - Add drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat thoroughly with the sauce.
10 - Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to allow flavors to blend. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Bold creamy flavors
  • Comforting dinner with a kick
02 -
  • Substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce if desired.
  • Add sautéed spinach or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
  • Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  • Any pasta shape works try penne or rigatoni.
  • Adjust cayenne to taste for spice level.
03 -
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor.
  • Don't overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
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