Savory Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta Easy Weeknight Meal

Looking for a quick and tasty dinner? You’re in the right place! Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta combines savory chicken, rich cream, and delicious spices for a meal that’s sure to please. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and packs a flavor punch. In just a few steps, you can whip up a dish that delights the whole family. Let's dive into the ingredients and get cooking!

Ingredients

List of Main Ingredients

- 2 chicken breasts, diced

- 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne or rigatoni work well)

- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

- 1 teaspoon onion powder

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust for spice level)

- Salt and pepper to taste

In this recipe, chicken breasts serve as the main protein. They add great flavor and texture. I recommend using penne or rigatoni pasta. Both types capture the sauce well and make each bite delicious. You will also need butter, which gives the dish its rich, cowboy-style taste.

Additional Ingredients

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

- 1 cup heavy cream

- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Don't forget the garlic! It adds a sweet and savory flavor. Cherry tomatoes give a pop of freshness and color. Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and creamy, while Parmesan adds a cheesy kick. Finally, fresh parsley brightens the dish. It’s a simple touch that makes it look pretty too.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

To start, you need to cook the pasta. Fill a large pot with water and add a good amount of salt. Bring this to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add 8 oz of penne or rigatoni. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes.

When the pasta is done, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water. This helps to adjust the sauce later. Then, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.

Sautéing the Chicken

Next, let's sauté the chicken. Take 2 chicken breasts and dice them into small pieces. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter melts, add the chicken. Season it with smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want it to be golden brown and fully cooked. Stir it often to avoid burning.

Creating the Sauce

Now it's time to make the sauce. With the chicken cooked, add 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Sauté these for about 2 to 3 minutes. Watch for the tomatoes to soften.

Next, lower the heat and stir in 2 more tablespoons of butter and 1 cup of heavy cream. Mix it well and let the sauce come to a gentle simmer. It will become rich and creamy.

Final Assembly

Mix the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Toss the pasta gently so it gets coated evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water. This will help you reach your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

To serve, spoon the Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta into bowls. Top each serving with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley. For a nice touch, add an extra sprinkle of cheese on top. Enjoy the pasta with rustic bread on the side for a complete meal.

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

To cook pasta al dente, start with a large pot. Use salted water to enhance the flavor. Bring the water to a boil before adding the pasta. Follow the package instructions for cooking time, usually around 8 to 10 minutes. Test the pasta a minute before the time is up. It should be firm yet tender.

For ideal chicken texture, cut the chicken breasts into small, even pieces. This helps them cook faster and evenly. Sauté them in a hot pan with butter. Cook until they turn golden brown, around 5-7 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 165°F.

Flavor Enhancements

To boost flavor, add spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning. A dash of lemon juice can brighten the dish too. If you want a smoky taste, try adding a bit more smoked paprika. You can also mix in some fresh herbs, like basil or thyme.

Adjusting spice levels is easy. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the chili flakes. For more heat, add extra chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce. You can also serve the dish with crushed red pepper on the side for those who like it spicy.

Kitchen Tools

For best results, use a large skillet. This allows the chicken and sauce to mix well. A pot for boiling pasta is also essential. A wooden spoon works great for stirring.

For serving, a large pasta bowl is ideal. It makes the dish look fancy. Use a ladle to serve the pasta. Don’t forget to keep a spoon handy for the sauce!

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can change the protein in this dish. Shrimp works well and cooks quickly. For a vegetarian option, use firm tofu or chickpeas. Both add a nice texture. You can also add veggies for more color and health. Try spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers. They cook fast and taste great in the sauce.

Sauce Variations

If you want a lighter sauce, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or milk. This keeps the dish creamy but less rich. You can also add low-fat cream cheese for a tangy twist. For cheese options, try feta or goat cheese. These can give a new flavor to the dish. A sprinkle of lemon zest can brighten the sauce, adding freshness.

Storage Info

Refrigeration

To store leftover Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta, let it cool completely. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps the pasta fresh and prevents it from drying out. You can use glass or plastic containers that seal well. These containers help lock in moisture and flavors.

Reheating Instructions

For reheating, I recommend using the stovetop. This method warms the pasta gently and keeps it creamy. Start by adding the pasta to a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water or a little cream. Stir often to prevent sticking. If you use the microwave, cover the dish loosely to trap steam. This keeps the pasta moist but may not maintain the same creamy texture.

FAQs

Common Questions About Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep this dish early. Cook the pasta and chicken, then store them separately. Keep the sauce in the fridge too. When you are ready to eat, just combine and heat everything on the stove.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version. Coconut cream is a good dairy-free option. You can also blend silken tofu with a little water for a healthier choice.

Cooking & Ingredient Questions

What pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne or rigatoni works well for this dish. They hold the sauce nicely. You can also use spaghetti if you prefer long noodles.

How can I make this dish spicier or milder?

To spice it up, add more chili flakes or hot sauce. If you want it milder, reduce the chili flakes. You can also skip them entirely.

General Cooking Inquiries

Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta. Store it in an airtight container. It will last up to three months. Just reheat it in a pan with a splash of water.

Can I use store-bought sauce instead of making my own?

Definitely! If you are short on time, a store-bought alfredo or creamy pasta sauce works great. Just heat it up with the chicken and pasta.

This blog post shared how to make a tasty Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta dish. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step cooking methods, and useful tips to enhance flavor.

Remember, you can swap proteins, adjust spice levels, and customize your sauce. This dish is easy to store and reheat too. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful meal at your table. Happy cookin