Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Buttery, spicy, and packed with flavor—this Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is your new weeknight favorite. This dish is perfect for busy evenings or casual gatherings, bringing a taste of the wild west to your table in under 30 minutes. Its unique combination of spices and creamy sauce will satisfy any pasta lover.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for a weekday dinner.
• Flavor Explosion: The creamy cowboy butter sauce is rich and flavorful, with a delightful kick from spices.
• Versatile Option: Perfect for family meals or casual get-togethers, it pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a fresh salad.
• Simple Ingredients: Most ingredients are pantry staples, making this recipe easy to prepare on short notice.
• Comfort Food Classic: Indulge in a hearty meal that evokes feelings of warmth and satisfaction.

Tools and Preparation

To make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta efficiently, gather the necessary tools before you start cooking. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet or chef’s pan
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet or chef’s pan: Provides ample space for sautéing chicken and vegetables thoroughly.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining ingredients when preparing the cowboy butter.

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 cowboy butter ingredients in a mixing bowl. Stir until well mixed. You can make this ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. For the pasta recipe, you will only need about half of this butter.

Step 2: Prepare the Pasta

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

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, 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 until browned but not fully cooked—about 4 minutes should suffice.

Step 5: Add Vegetables

Reduce heat slightly. Add shallots, sliced garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook while stirring frequently until the vegetables soften and the chicken is fully cooked through.

Step 6: Combine with Cowboy Butter

Stir in the prepared cowboy butter along with drained linguine. Toss everything together until well coated in the buttery sauce.

Step 7: Finish with Cream

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

Step 8: Serve Immediately

Plate your delicious Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta with lemon wedges on the side for extra zest. Top with additional Parmesan cheese if desired and enjoy this ultimate comfort food!

How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet dinner or entertaining guests, here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: Toss together fresh greens with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.
• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and flavor, making it a perfect accompaniment.

With Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slathered with garlic butter complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: For an indulgent twist, top your garlic bread with mozzarella before toasting.

With Lemon Wedges

• Fresh Lemon Wedges: Serve lemon wedges on the side for an added zesty kick that brightens up the dish.

With Extra Parmesan

• Grated Parmesan: Offer extra grated Parmesan cheese for guests who want to enhance their pasta with more cheesy goodness.

How to Perfect Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

To ensure your Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables bring vibrant flavors that dried ingredients can’t match.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta until al dente for the best texture; it will continue cooking when combined with the sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste and adjust seasoning as you go, especially when adding salt and spices.
• Make Cowboy Butter Ahead of Time: Prepare cowboy butter in advance and refrigerate. It can save time during meal prep.

Best Side Dishes for Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Pairing side dishes with Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta can enhance your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds nutrients and contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus provides a crunchy texture and earthy flavor.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing side.
4. Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes infused with garlic make for a hearty companion on your plate.
5. Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts add sweetness that complements the spicy chicken.
6. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw brings a tangy element that cuts through the richness of the pasta dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta can be simple, but some common mistakes can affect your dish. Here are key errors to avoid:

• Skipping the seasoning: Many cooks forget to season the chicken properly. Always season your chicken with salt and spices before cooking for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta longer than necessary can lead to a mushy texture. Ensure you cook it al dente according to package instructions for the best results.
• Not reserving pasta water: Failing to save some pasta water means missing out on a great way to adjust sauce consistency. Reserve a cup of water before draining your pasta.
• Using cold butter: Using cold butter in your sauce can lead to separation. Make sure your butter is softened and at room temperature for a smooth, creamy finish.
• Rushing the cooking process: Cooking chicken too quickly can lead to uneven cooking. Allow enough time for each step, especially when searing chicken and softening vegetables.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil; heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer into a microwave-safe bowl; heat on high in 1-minute intervals until warmed through, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat; add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed, stirring until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta?

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a delicious and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken pieces tossed with linguine in a buttery garlic sauce. It’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners!

Can I customize Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms or use different types of pasta based on what you have on hand.

How spicy is Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta?

The spice level can be adjusted by controlling the amount of red pepper flakes used. Start with a pinch and increase according to your taste preference.

What are some side dishes that pair well with Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta?

Consider serving with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that complements the flavors of the pasta.

Final Thoughts

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a crowd-pleaser, this dish fits the bill perfectly! Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or protein alternatives—it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!