Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure! Today, we’re diving into the world of comfort food with a twist: Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta. This dish marries tender chicken with a rich and creamy butter sauce infused with zesty flavors and fresh herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it will leave your family and friends craving more. Let’s get started and whip up this creamy masterpiece!
Ingredients
- 8 oz. pasta of your choice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh chives
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh cilantro
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Once it’s beautifully tender, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, and season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink and cooked through.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the cowboy butter mixture. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, parsley, chives, and cilantro. Mix well until it’s all luscious and well combined.
- Once the chicken is ready, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Gently stir in the cowboy butter mixture, allowing everything to blend beautifully and heat through.
- Serve your Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta immediately, topped with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and extra herbs if you like. It’s sure to be a hit!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables, like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated for a delicious lunch the next day!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe involves sautéing chicken to achieve a nice golden color and rich flavors. By cooking the pasta to al dente, you ensure it maintains a delightful bite that complements the creamy sauce. Mixing the ingredients while the pasta is warm helps the sauce meld beautifully with every noodle.
FAQ
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape — penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free options work well.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the cowboy butter mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. Then, just cook the pasta and chicken when you’re ready to serve.
Conclusion
Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is not only easy to make but also bursts with flavor, making it a perfect crowd-pleaser for any occasion. So gather your ingredients and get cooking — your taste buds are in for a treat! Enjoy every creamy, zesty bite!