If you’re searching for a dinner that’s as comforting as it is exciting, look no further than Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta. Imagine tender strips of chicken, a wildly flavorful butter sauce brimming with garlic, smoked paprika, and just a hint of heat, all draped over a bed of creamy pasta—this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s got everything: richness, a little zing, and loads of savory character. Whether you’re entertaining friends or conquering a busy weeknight, this Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta promises a plate that no one can resist.

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how a handful of straightforward ingredients come together to make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta so memorable. Each item brings a special note to the final dish—whether it’s color, peppery warmth, or that rich creaminess we all crave.

Chicken breasts: Slice them into strips for juicy, protein-packed bites that cook up quickly and evenly.
Pasta (fettuccine or penne): Either shape holds the sauce perfectly; choose your texture adventure!
Unsalted butter: The star of the show, lending richness and that signature cowboy-style buttery flair.
Garlic: Fresh and fragrant, garlic gives the entire pasta tantalizing aromatic depth.
Dijon mustard: Just a tablespoon delivers a subtle tang and helps build layers of flavor.
Lemon juice: A splash wakes up the whole dish with brightness.
Lemon zest: Adds sunny citrus notes that lift the butter and cream.
Smoked paprika: Smoky, earthy, and slightly sweet—this spice brings true cowboy character.
Cayenne pepper: For those who like a little kick; adjust to your heat tolerance.
Red pepper flakes: Extra flecks of spice for flavor and a gorgeous pop of color.
Salt: Essential to enhance every other ingredient.
Black pepper: Coarsely ground, it adds warmth and peppery bite.
Heavy cream: Luxuriously thick, it forms the base of that creamy, dreamy sauce.
Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty depth and creates a beautifully thick sauce.
Fresh parsley: A sprinkle for color, freshness, and a classic finishing touch.
Chives: For a mild oniony bite and bright green flare.

How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Start things off by cooking your pasta according to package instructions until just al dente—you want it to keep a little bite since it’ll soak up all that luscious sauce later. Don’t forget to generously salt your water; it’s an easy way to infuse early flavor. Once cooked, drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat your chicken strips dry, then toss them with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne so every bite pops with flavor. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt two tablespoons of the butter and sear the chicken until each piece is browned and cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes. Remove the chicken and keep it covered—it stays juicy this way!

Step 3: Build the Cowboy Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and gently sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, but not browned. Stir in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and lemon zest for zing, followed by the red pepper flakes and heavy cream. Let this mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until it starts to thicken and take on a glorious aroma.

Step 4: Finish the Sauce and Add Chicken

Time for the magic! Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir until it fully melts into a creamy, cheesy sauce. Return those beautiful chicken strips to the skillet and toss them to coat in the cowboy butter. Every morsel of chicken benefits from a dousing in this velvety, spicy sauce.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Serve

Add your cooked pasta to the skillet and mix everything together until each noodle is cloaked in sauce. Let everything cook together for about a minute, so the flavors can fully unite and shine. Right before serving, top generously with freshly chopped parsley and chives for a fresh burst of flavor and vibrant color.

How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

Garnishing your Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a chance to add finishing pizzazz—scatter extra parsley, chives, and even a little more Parmesan cheese right before serving. A twist of fresh cracked black pepper always looks gorgeous and adds a peppery spark that suits the dish.

Side Dishes

This pasta begs for something to soak up the sauce, so serve it with a hunk of crusty, warm bread or a toasted baguette. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the dish’s richness and gives your plate a little crunch and color.

Creative Ways to Present

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta can truly steal the spotlight on any table. Try swirling the pasta high with tongs on each plate, placing strips of chicken on top for an elegant touch. You could also serve it family-style from a big, rustic skillet—let everyone dig in and help themselves, which feels perfectly cowboy worthy!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare, trust me), transfer Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta into an airtight container. The pasta keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to three days, and you’ll love opening the fridge to that spicy, buttery treasure just waiting for a second act.

Freezing

Freezing works best with the chicken and sauce portion only; pasta can become too soft after thawing. Store the saucy chicken in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to two months. When ready to use, cook fresh pasta and toss with your reheated cowboy butter chicken mixture for the best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk to the pasta and gently warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring often to revive the creamy texture and help the sauce cling to the noodles. Microwave works in a pinch—cover your container and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring each time until hot and silky.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of chicken for Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta?

Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep things lean and tender, you can use chicken thighs for extra juiciness and flavor. Just slice them into strips and cook as directed.

Is Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta very spicy?

The dish has a pleasant kick thanks to cayenne and red pepper flakes, but you’re in control! Simply reduce or omit the spicy elements for a milder version, or add more if you prefer extra heat.

What kind of pasta works best with the cowboy butter sauce?

Fettuccine and penne are both excellent choices, as their shape holds the sauce beautifully, but you can use spaghetti, rigatoni, or even shells. The key is a pasta that has enough surface area for the luscious sauce to cling to.

Can I make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta gluten free?

Yes, just swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta variety and double-check that your Dijon mustard is gluten free. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten free!

What cheeses pair well if I want to change it up?

Parmesan is classic, but Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even a bit of sharp white cheddar will bring new character to the sauce. Mix and match for your own custom cowboy blend.

Final Thoughts

This Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is everything you want in a home-cooked meal—bold, creamy, and downright irresistible. If you’ve been craving a flavorful twist on classic chicken pasta, it’s time to grab your skillet and give it a try. Your tastebuds are in for a delicious adventure!

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe

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4.5 from 25 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich flavors of Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta, a creamy and spicy pasta dish that combines tender chicken strips with a decadent buttery sauce. This recipe is a delightful twist on classic chicken pasta, elevated with a zesty kick and a hint of smokiness.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta:

8 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta

For the Chicken:

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips

For the Sauce:

½ cup unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped chives

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Prepare pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken: Season chicken strips with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne. In a skillet, cook chicken in butter until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic. Add Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, and heavy cream. Simmer until slightly thickened. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
Combine and Serve: Return chicken to the skillet, add cooked pasta, and toss in the sauce. Mix to coat evenly. Garnish with parsley and chives before serving.