Ingredients for Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein of this Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta, providing tender, juicy bites. Ensure even sizing for consistent cooking.
• Unsalted butter: The essential base for our rich, flavorful cowboy butter sauce. Using unsalted butter allows for precise salt control.
• Penne or rigatoni pasta: Provides a sturdy, al dente foundation to absorb the creamy sauce. Rigatoni's ridges are perfect for clinging to flavor.
• Chicken broth: Forms the savory liquid base for our sauce, adding depth and helping to create that luscious texture. Low-sodium is preferred.
• Heavy cream: Crucial for achieving the luxurious, creamy texture that makes this Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta so comforting. Don't substitute for milk.
• Yellow onion: Creates an aromatic foundation, adding a subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce. Sauté until translucent for best flavor.
• Garlic cloves: Infuses the entire dish with pungent, aromatic flavor, a hallmark of any great comfort meal. Freshly minced is always best.
• Sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil): Adds a concentrated, sweet-tart depth and a beautiful reddish hue to the sauce. Use oil-packed for best flavor.
• Worcestershire sauce: Provides a critical umami punch, enhancing the savory notes and adding complexity to the &#x22cowboy&#x22 flavor profile.
• Smoked paprika: Delivers the signature smoky flavor that defines &#x22cowboy&#x22 cuisine, adding warmth and a beautiful color. Choose Spanish smoked paprika.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: These essential seasonings balance and amplify all the flavors, making every bite of your Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta pop. Season gradually.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for extra creaminess and a salty, nutty flavor. Freshly grated makes a huge difference.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a bright, fresh finish and a pop of color, cutting through the richness of the sauce beautifully. Always use fresh.

How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Prep Ingredients:

Cook pasta to al dente according to package directions. While pasta cooks, cut chicken, dice onion, mince garlic, and chop sun-dried tomatoes. This thorough prep sets the stage for your ultimate Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta.

Sauté Chicken:

Melt a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.

Build Sauce Base:

In the same skillet, add remaining softened butter, onion, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté until onions soften, about 5 minutes, allowing these aromatic flavors to meld beautifully for our Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta.

Simmer Sauce:

Stir in smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes. This allows the creamy sauce to thicken slightly.

Combine & Finish:

Return cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the al dente pasta and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss gently to coat everything evenly, allowing the sauce to emulsify and cling beautifully to this Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta.

Garnish & Serve:

Season your Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately for a comforting, satisfying meal your family will love.

How to Store Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

To store leftover Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days. Don’t leave it out too long, or the sauce might separate, a mistake I’ve made. Discard if off smells or unusual appearance are noted.

To save time, prep chicken, onion, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes up to two days ahead. Store these components in airtight containers and refrigerate. Assemble the pasta just before serving for the best, fresh flavor and texture.

When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream. Heat gently to warm through.

What to Serve with Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Serve this comforting Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta immediately, hot and fresh. For a special touch, garnish generously with extra fresh parsley and a dusting of Parmesan cheese. This rich pasta pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or a side of warm, crusty garlic bread. Enjoy this hearty meal warm for the best experience.

I always serve this pasta family-style, straight from the skillet to the table. It creates a warm, inviting atmosphere, making everyone feel right at home and ready to enjoy every delicious bite together.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute chicken thighs for breasts in this Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta?

Yes, chicken thighs work beautifully! They offer a richer flavor and stay incredibly tender, even if slightly overcooked. Adjust cooking time as thighs might take a few minutes longer to brown and cook through.

→ How do I prevent my Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta sauce from separating?

Ensuring your butter is softened before adding it to the skillet is key. Also, avoid boiling the sauce vigorously; a gentle simmer is best. If it does separate, whisk in a splash of reserved pasta water slowly.

→ Can I make this Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap the regular penne or rigatoni for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Ensure your chicken broth is also certified gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

→ How long does leftover Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta last in the fridge?

Leftover Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta stores well in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy texture. Don’t leave it out too long!

→ Can I prepare components of this dish ahead of time for quick assembly?

Yes, you can prep the chicken, dice the onion, mince garlic, and chop sun-dried tomatoes up to two days in advance. Store them in airtight containers. Cook pasta and assemble the sauce fresh for best results.