Description
How to make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta with tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, smoky butter sauce that your family will love.
Ingredients
- Main Components:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 pound penne or rigatoni pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Aromatics & Flavor Builders:
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 4–5 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), drained and chopped
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Spices & Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Finishing Touches:
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- 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.
Notes
Ensure butter is softened before adding to the skillet; this prevents sauce separation and ensures a creamy texture.
Store leftover Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta in an airtight container for 3-4 days; reheat gently with a splash of broth.
Swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless thighs for a richer flavor and more tender chicken that holds up well.
Serve this pasta immediately, garnished generously with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese for optimal taste.
Always reserve some pasta water; it helps emulsify the sauce, creating a silkier, richer coating for the pasta.
**Allergy Information:** Dairy, Gluten, Fish