Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta (Printable)

Savory chicken and pasta blend with buttery garlic-Parmesan and zesty seasonings for a hearty meal.

# 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, adjust to taste
06 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
07 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ Sauce

08 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
09 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
10 - 1 cup chicken broth
11 - 1 cup heavy cream
12 - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
13 - Juice of half a lemon
14 - 1/3 cup finely chopped fresh parsley, plus extra for garnish

→ Pasta

15 - 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.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
03 - Reduce heat to medium. Melt butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, approximately 1 minute.
04 - Pour in chicken broth, scraping browned bits from the skillet, then bring to a gentle simmer.
05 - Stir in heavy cream and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.
06 - Gradually add grated Parmesan, stirring until melted and sauce is smooth.
07 - Return chicken to the skillet. Add lemon juice and chopped parsley, stirring to combine.
08 - Meanwhile, cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain well.
09 - Add drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
10 - Plate immediately and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley, if desired.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • One-pot meal
  • Freezer-friendly
02 -
  • Substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce if desired
  • Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C)
03 -
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and melting
  • Let pasta finish cooking in sauce to absorb flavors fully
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