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Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

A one-pot meal that combines tender chicken, a rich and creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta for a satisfying and flavorful experience.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) chicken breast
  • 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne or fusilli)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta.
  2. Sauté the chicken: In the same pot, melt half the butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, about 6-7 minutes.
  3. Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  4. Make the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, remaining butter, and spices. Stir well as the butter melts and integrates into the broth for about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Combine: Return the pasta to the pot, and add reserved pasta water if needed to adjust the consistency. Toss everything together.
  6. Serve it up: Garnish with grated Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy warm!

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or swapping the chicken for shrimp or tofu.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken pasta, one-pot meal, comfort food, quick dinner, family-friendly