There’s something deeply comforting about a creamy pasta dish at the end of a long day, especially when it comes together quickly and delivers bold, satisfying flavor. This Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is the kind of weeknight win that feels indulgent without being complicated. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want a hearty, homemade meal but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
The inspiration behind this recipe comes from the classic cowboy butter flavor profile—rich butter, garlic, herbs, and a touch of gentle heat—reimagined into a family-friendly pasta dish. Paired with tender chicken and silky sauce that coats every strand of pasta, this recipe brings comfort and excitement to the table. Whether you’re cooking for a busy household or simply treating yourself after a long day, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Why This Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta Works for Busy Weeknights
This recipe is designed with real life in mind. It uses simple ingredients you likely already have, cooks in under an hour, and doesn’t require multiple pans or complicated techniques. The sauce is built directly in the skillet, which means fewer dishes and more time to relax after dinner.
Another reason this dish works so well is balance. The richness of the butter and cream is offset by herbs and spices that keep every bite interesting. The chicken adds protein, making the meal filling and satisfying, while the pasta ties everything together into a cohesive, comforting dish.
Because it’s versatile, you can easily adjust spice levels, swap pasta shapes, or add vegetables depending on what you have on hand. That flexibility is exactly what makes this recipe a reliable go-to for weeknight cooking.
Ingredients for Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta
Using the right ingredients ensures the bold, savory flavor that defines this dish. Everything listed below is easy to find and budget-friendly.
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Chicken breast: 1½ pounds (680 g), cut into bite-sized pieces
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Pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine): 12 ounces (340 g)
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Unsalted butter: 6 tablespoons (85 g)
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Olive oil: 1 tablespoon (15 ml)
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Garlic: 6 cloves, minced
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Heavy cream: 1½ cups (360 ml)
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Chicken broth: ½ cup (120 ml)
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Grated Parmesan cheese: ¾ cup (75 g)
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Smoked paprika: 1 teaspoon (5 g)
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Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon (5 g)
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Onion powder: ½ teaspoon (2 g)
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Crushed red pepper flakes: ½ teaspoon (optional)
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Dried parsley: 1 teaspoon (1 g)
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Salt: 1 teaspoon (6 g), or to taste
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Black pepper: ½ teaspoon (2 g)
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Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Generously salt the water—this step is essential, as it’s the only chance to season the pasta itself. The water should taste lightly salty, which helps build flavor from the very first step. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This means the pasta should be tender but still have a slight bite in the center, which prevents it from becoming mushy once combined with the sauce.
Before draining, carefully scoop out ½ cup (120 ml) of the starchy pasta water and set it aside. This reserved water plays an important role later, helping loosen the sauce and allowing it to cling smoothly to the pasta. Drain the pasta well and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
2. Season and Cook the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, prepare the chicken. Cut the chicken breast into evenly sized, bite-sized pieces to ensure quick and even cooking. Season generously with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. This seasoning blend builds the savory foundation of the dish and ensures the chicken is flavorful on its own.
Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons (28 g) of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and slightly bubbling, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this helps the chicken brown instead of steaming. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly golden on the outside. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Leaving the browned bits in the pan will add depth to the sauce.
3. Build the Cowboy Butter Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining butter to the same skillet. As it melts, it will pick up all the flavorful bits left behind from the chicken. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, stirring constantly. Cook for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown, as burned garlic can add bitterness to the sauce.
This step is where the signature cowboy butter flavor starts to come together, combining rich butter, garlic, and gentle heat into a bold and aromatic base.
4. Create the Creamy Base
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits are packed with flavor and will enrich the sauce. Stir in the heavy cream and dried parsley, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Allow the sauce to simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken slightly. The goal is a smooth, creamy consistency that will coat the pasta without feeling heavy. Keep the heat moderate to prevent the cream from separating.
5. Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring it into the sauce so it reheats gently. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together, making sure each piece of pasta is well coated in the creamy cowboy butter sauce. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts smoothly into the sauce.
If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. The starch in the pasta water helps bind the sauce and gives it a silky finish.
6. Finish and Serve
Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning as needed with additional salt or black pepper. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the pasta hot, straight from the skillet, for a comforting and satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet effortless.
Tips for the Best Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta
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Cut chicken evenly so it cooks at the same rate.
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Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother, creamier sauce.
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Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente texture holds up best in creamy sauces.
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Adjust spice levels by increasing or reducing red pepper flakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time, making it a great option for meal planning. Cook the pasta and chicken, then combine them with the sauce. Allow the dish to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to restore the creamy texture, as the sauce may thicken when chilled. Warm gently over medium-low heat to avoid separating the sauce.
2. What pasta shapes work best for this recipe?
This recipe is flexible when it comes to pasta shapes. Penne, rotini, and fusilli are excellent choices because their ridges hold onto the creamy sauce. Long pasta like fettuccine or linguine also works well if you prefer a more classic presentation. The key is choosing a pasta that complements the rich sauce and provides a satisfying bite. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be used with minimal adjustments.
3. How can I add vegetables to this dish?
Adding vegetables is an easy way to make this meal even more nutritious. Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, broccoli florets, or bell peppers pair beautifully with the cowboy butter sauce. Add firmer vegetables like broccoli or peppers when cooking the chicken, and stir in delicate greens like spinach at the end so they wilt gently into the sauce without becoming overcooked.
4. Is this recipe suitable for families with kids?
Absolutely. This dish is naturally family-friendly, and the spice level is easy to control. If cooking for kids, simply omit or reduce the crushed red pepper flakes. The creamy, buttery sauce and tender chicken are flavors most children enjoy. You can even serve it with a simple side salad or garlic bread to round out the meal and please everyone at the table.
Final Thoughts
Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is the kind of recipe that earns a permanent place in your weeknight rotation. It combines comfort, convenience, and bold flavor in a way that feels both satisfying and approachable. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic and spices, transforms simple pantry ingredients into something special without requiring advanced cooking skills.
What makes this dish particularly appealing is its adaptability. It works just as well for a quick solo dinner as it does for feeding a hungry family. You can dress it up with fresh herbs for guests or keep it simple for a cozy night at home. Every version delivers the same rich, comforting experience that makes pasta such a beloved meal.
Cooking at home doesn’t have to be complicated to be rewarding. This recipe proves that with a few thoughtful ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that feels indulgent yet effortless. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta offers a dependable, delicious solution for busy evenings when you still want something truly satisfying.
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Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta Weeknight Win
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
Description
A creamy, flavorful pasta dish inspired by classic cowboy butter flavors, perfect for quick and satisfying weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
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Chicken breast: 1½ pounds (680 g), cubed
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Pasta: 12 ounces (340 g)
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Unsalted butter: 6 tablespoons (85 g)
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Olive oil: 1 tablespoon (15 ml)
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Garlic: 6 cloves, minced
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Heavy cream: 1½ cups (360 ml)
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Chicken broth: ½ cup (120 ml)
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Parmesan cheese: ¾ cup (75 g), grated
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Smoked paprika: 1 teaspoon (5 g)
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Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon (5 g)
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Onion powder: ½ teaspoon (2 g)
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Red pepper flakes: ½ teaspoon (optional)
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Dried parsley: 1 teaspoon (1 g)
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Salt: 1 teaspoon (6 g)
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Black pepper: ½ teaspoon (2 g)
Instructions
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Cook pasta in salted water until al dente; reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain.
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Season chicken with spices and cook in olive oil and butter until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet.
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Add remaining butter and garlic to skillet; cook briefly until fragrant.
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Stir in chicken broth and cream; simmer until slightly thickened.
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Return chicken and pasta to skillet; toss with sauce and Parmesan cheese.
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Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed and serve warm.
Notes
This recipe can be easily customized with added vegetables or different pasta shapes. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheat gently for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
