Introduction
Welcome to a delightful dish that embodies comfort and culinary joy — Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta! This hearty pasta dish combines tender chicken pieces, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and a rich, buttery sauce that dances on the palate. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches a perfect al dente texture. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet. Sauté until the chicken is nicely browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the butter and melt it over medium heat. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant, which should take about 1 minute.
- Next, stir in the smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Let the spices mingle in the butter for an additional minute to release their flavors.
- Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine and scraping up any flavorful brown bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Add the cooked pasta, the sautéed chicken, and the halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet. Gently toss everything together to ensure the pasta is well-coated in the creamy butter sauce.
- Allow the mixture to cook for another 2-3 minutes, just until everything is heated through and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and fold in the freshly chopped parsley for a brightness that will elevate your dish.
- Serve your Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta hot, topped generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Enjoy!
Notes or Tips
This Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is versatile! Feel free to switch up the spices or add in your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, for added nutrition and flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper to taste. Pair it with a simple side salad for a balanced meal that’s bursting with flavor.
Cooking Techniques
Cooking the pasta al dente is essential for retaining texture in the dish. This method prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when combined with the butter sauce. Secondly, don’t rush the garlic sautéing process; allowing it to cook gently infuses a rich, aromatic depth to the sauce. Lastly, scraping the skillet for those browned bits is key to maximizing flavor!
FAQ
Can I use other meats in this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe works beautifully with shrimp or even pork. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked through.
What type of pasta works best?
While any pasta can be used, I recommend shells or fettuccine to capture the creamy sauce perfectly, but feel free to use your favorite variety!
Conclusion
Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth, flavor, and a hint of adventure. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or treating yourself to a comforting dinner, this recipe is sure to leave everyone satisfied. So, gather your ingredients and make some magic in the kitchen tonight!