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Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta: One Pan Garlic Butter Dinner

This irresistible one-pan cowboy butter chicken pasta combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a creamy garlic butter sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a comforting meal on the table fast with minimal cleanup.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 485
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or your favorite shape)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add smoked paprika, cayenne, oregano, and onion powder. Stir constantly for 30 seconds to toast the spices.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer.
  5. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens slightly. Add the cooked chicken and pasta back to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the delicious cowboy butter sauce.
  6. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Choose short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli that hold sauce well. Don't overcook the garlic - about 30 seconds is perfect. Customize spice level by adjusting cayenne pepper. Make creamier by adding extra heavy cream or cream cheese.