Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Buttery, spicy, and packed with flavor—this Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is your new weeknight favorite. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Its unique blend of spices and creamy sauce makes it a standout option that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of cowboy butter and spices creates a deliciously rich flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Great for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with friends.
• Comfort Food: Creamy pasta combined with tender chicken offers that warm, comforting feeling we all crave.
• Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs, from the type of pasta to the choice of veggies.

Tools and Preparation

To make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly. Having the right equipment will help you prepare this dish efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet or chef’s pan
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta evenly while allowing enough space for movement.
• Skillet or chef’s pan: Provides ample surface area for searing chicken and sautéing vegetables, ensuring even cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for preparing the cowboy butter mixture without making a mess.
• Cutting board & Knife: Essential for safely chopping ingredients while maintaining efficiency in your prep work.

Ingredients

Buttery, spicy, and packed with flavor—this Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is your new weeknight favorite. Ready in under 30 minutes!

For the Cowboy Butter

• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley
• 1 tbsp chopped chives
• 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• pinch red pepper flakes
• ½ lemon juice and zest

For the Pasta Dish

• 12 oz (340g) pasta, I used linguine
• 2 tsp salt
• 6 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil, or as needed
• 1 large shallot, finely diced
• 1 cup (150g) sliced bell peppers, mix of red, yellow and orange
• 4 cloves garlic, sliced
• 4 tbsp cowboy butter, or more to taste
• ½ cup (120ml) cream, heavy / double
• 4 tbsp Parmesan, freshly grated
• 2 tbsp parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Make the Cowboy Butter

Combine all the ingredients together in a small bowl and set aside. This can be made in advance and kept in the fridge until needed. You will only need to use about half of the butter in the pasta recipe.

Step 2: Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to the boil. Add the pasta and cook according to pack instructions or until al dente. Reserve some of the pasta water before draining.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken thighs into strips or bite-sized pieces. Season them with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Quickly sear the chicken for about 4 minutes; it’s okay if it’s not fully cooked at this stage.

Step 5: Cook Vegetables

Lower the heat slightly. Add shallots, sliced garlic, and bell peppers. Continue cooking while stirring frequently until vegetables soften and chicken is cooked through.

Step 6: Combine with Cowboy Butter

Stir in cowboy butter then add linguine, tossing everything together in that buttery goodness.

Step 7: Final Touches

Add cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 8: Serve

Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side along with extra Parmesan cheese and perhaps some garlic bread for an added touch of comfort food vibes!

How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a cozy date night, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Garlic Bread

• Garlic bread is a classic side that complements the buttery sauce perfectly. Serve warm and toasted for added texture.

Fresh Salad

• A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta. It adds freshness and color to your plate.

Lemon Wedges

• Offering lemon wedges allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their pasta, enhancing the flavors and adding brightness to each bite.

Parmesan Cheese

• Extra grated Parmesan on top provides an additional layer of flavor and creaminess. It’s perfect for cheese lovers!

How to Perfect Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

To make the most of your Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta, consider these helpful tips for an even better dish.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley, chives, and thyme add vibrant flavor compared to dried herbs.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Sear the chicken only until browned; it will finish cooking with the veggies for a juicy bite.
• Reserve pasta water: Adding a splash of reserved pasta water can help create a silkier sauce that clings well to the noodles.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving! Adjust salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
• Experiment with pasta shapes: While linguine is great, try other shapes like penne or fettuccine for variety in texture.

Best Side Dishes for Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Pairing side dishes with Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta enhances the dining experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Steamed Broccoli
   A nutritious side that adds crunch and color. Simply steam until tender.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   Season your favorite vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers with olive oil and roast until caramelized.

3. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing, croutons, and parmesan creates a refreshing contrast.

4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside the pasta dish.

5. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a light and flavorful option.

6. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn brushed with butter makes for a fun finger food side that pairs nicely with rich pasta dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes in your Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta will enhance the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland results. Make sure to coat the chicken with spices evenly.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions and aim for al dente.
• Neglecting to reserve pasta water: Forgetting to save some pasta water means missing out on a creamy sauce. Always reserve a cup before draining.
• Using cold ingredients: Adding cold cream directly can affect the sauce’s consistency. Let it sit at room temperature before mixing it in.
• Rushing the cooking process: Cooking on high heat without control can lead to uneven cooking. Take your time and adjust heat as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

• For best results, freeze in individual portions using freezer-safe containers.
• You can store it for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place pasta in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in increments of 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or reserved pasta water, then stir in the pasta until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta that might help you further.

What is Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta?

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a creamy, buttery dish featuring chicken, pasta, and flavorful seasonings that come together quickly for a satisfying meal.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute any favorite type of pasta like penne or fettuccine according to your preference.

How do I make it spicier?

To increase the spice level in Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta, simply add more red pepper flakes or incorporate diced jalapeños into the mix.

Can I replace chicken with another protein?

Absolutely! You can use turkey, beef, or even plant-based options like tofu if you’re looking for alternatives.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version of Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta, swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. This dish is versatile; feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or changing up the protein. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!