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Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta - Easy One Pan Creamy Dinner Recipe

This cowboy butter chicken pasta is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution that brings together tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce all in one pan. The bold flavors of garlic, herbs, and a hint of spice make this dish a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 580
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 8 oz penne pasta (or your favorite short pasta)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  3. Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the pasta, making sure it's submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
  4. Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, remaining Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir to combine and heat through. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on top.

Notes

For perfect pasta texture, use a pasta that holds sauce well like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli. Adjust red pepper flakes to your preference for heat level. This dish reheats beautifully and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.