Imagine a dish that combines the bold, rich flavors of cowboy butter with tender chicken and pasta! This Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a delightful meal that stands out on any table, blending creamy textures with a burst of spices, creating an unforgettable dining experience. It’s the perfect choice when you crave something heartwarming and deliciously indulgent.
Ingredients
- 3 chicken breasts, diced
- 250g pasta of choice
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipments
- Saucepan
- Large pot
- Frying pan
- Colander
- Cooking spatula
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta using a colander and set it aside. This step ensures that your pasta retains a firm texture, perfect for absorbing the flavorful cowboy butter sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a frying pan over medium heat, melt a small portion of the butter and add the diced chicken breasts. Season with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken thoroughly, ensuring each piece is golden brown on the outside and completely cooked through. This will take approximately 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce
In a saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about a minute. Stir in paprika and cayenne pepper, continuing to cook for another minute. Add lemon juice and chopped parsley, mixing well to combine all the ingredients into a cohesive, aromatic sauce.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Return the cooked pasta to the large pot. Pour over the cowboy butter sauce, followed by the cooked chicken. Stir everything together until the pasta and chicken are thoroughly coated with the sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley if desired.
How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta
This dish shines as a standalone meal but can be excellently paired with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner. A spritz of lemon before serving enhances its fresh flavors and makes it truly restaurant-worthy.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
Ensure that you do not overcook the pasta; it should be suspended in a perfect state between firm and tender. Utilize fresh garlic and lemons for the sauce, as these ingredients provide a robust and refreshing aroma that pre-packaged alternatives lack. Adding a little pasta water into the sauce can help bind everything together for an ultra-creamy finish.
Higher Protein Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta
For those seeking a protein boost, consider adding sliced turkey sausage or chickpea pasta. Both options seamlessly integrate into the dish, complementing the existing flavors while elevating the protein quotient. This modification will appeal to fitness enthusiasts and anyone keeping an eye on their dietary protein intake.
Low Carb Cowboy Butter Chicken Delight
If watching carbs, swap the regular pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. These low-carb alternatives soak up the cowboy butter just as effectively as traditional pasta, while providing a fulfilling, guilt-free dish. This adjustment ensures you enjoy all the taste without straying from your dietary goals.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For extended storage, freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Always reheat thoroughly before consuming, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain the sauce’s creaminess.
FAQs
- Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and ensure the chicken seasoning contains no dairy. - What type of pasta works best?
Fettuccine or penne are excellent choices as they hold the sauce well. - Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely. Broccoli, bell peppers, and spinach are great additions. - Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild kick, but you can adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.
Concluding on the Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta Experience
Indulge your senses with this Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta, a dish that redefines comfort and flavor. Try it out, enjoy the delectable outcome, and don’t forget to leave a comment below or share your experience with friends. Happy cooking!
Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- chicken breasts
- pasta
- butter
- garlic
- paprika
- cayenne pepper
- lemon juice
- parsley
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Boil a large pot of salted water, cook pasta to al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Cook diced chicken in butter until browned and cooked through, season with salt and pepper.
- Create cowboy butter sauce by melting butter, sautéing garlic, and adding spices and lemon juice.
- Combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce in the pot, mix well, and garnish with parsley.