Save to Pinterest A bold, creamy pasta dish featuring tender chicken, zesty spices, and a buttery garlic-Parmesan sauce with a hint of cayenne. Perfect for a comforting dinner with a kick.
Ingredients
- Chicken & Seasoning: 450 g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference), Salt and pepper, to taste, 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Sauce: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, 4 cloves garlic, minced, 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth, 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, 1 cup (60 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, Juice of half a lemon, 1/3 cup finely chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
- Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) fettuccine or pasta of choice
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Season the chicken pieces with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Step 2:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6 8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Step 3:
- Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Step 4:
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a simmer.
- Step 5:
- Stir in heavy cream and simmer 2 3 minutes.
- Step 6:
- Gradually add Parmesan, stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Step 7:
- Return chicken to skillet. Add lemon juice and chopped parsley; stir to combine.
- Step 8:
- Meanwhile, cook pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and add to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly.
- Step 9:
- Cook for 2 3 minutes more to let flavors meld.
- Step 10:
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.
Save to Pinterest Required Tools
Large skillet, Large pot for boiling pasta, Chefs knife, Cutting board, Measuring cups and spoons, Wooden spoon or spatula, Colander
Allergen Information
Contains: Dairy (butter, cream, Parmesan), Wheat (pasta). May contain: Gluten (pasta) check pasta packaging for gluten-free options if needed. Always verify ingredient labels if you have food allergies.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 650, Total Fat: 32 g, Carbohydrates: 54 g, Protein: 38 g
Save to Pinterest This cowboy butter chicken pasta brings bold flavors and creamy comfort together effortlessly.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of chicken works best for this dish?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces ensure even cooking and tender bites throughout the dish.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, the cayenne pepper can be increased or decreased according to your preferred level of heat without compromising flavor.
- → Is there a recommended pasta type?
Fettuccine is traditional, but other pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni work well for holding the rich sauce.
- → Can I substitute any ingredients for a lighter version?
Replacing heavy cream with half-and-half provides a lighter but still creamy texture in the sauce.
- → How do I ensure the chicken is fully cooked?
Cook chicken pieces until no longer pink and juices run clear, or reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).