Imagine a sauce that tastes rich, herbaceous, smoky, and creamy all at once. That’s the magic of cowboy butter, and we’ve transformed it into a decadent weeknight meal: Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta. This creamy, savory chicken pasta recipe brings bold flavor to your dinner table in no time. Get ready for a comforting dish packed with taste.

Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Learn more about the classic components that make up this versatile and flavorful condiment, including garlic, herbs, and spices in this guide to cowboy butter.

Ready in 30 minutes: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when time is short.
Bursting with bold flavors: Smoked paprika, garlic, and fresh herbs create an unforgettable taste.
Easy to customize ingredients: Adapt the recipe with your family’s favorite proteins or vegetables.
Perfect for family dinners: Everyone at the table will enjoy this comforting and flavorful meal.
Comfort food with a kick: The subtle heat from crushed red pepper adds a delightful warmth.

Ingredients

Gather these kitchen staples to make your Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta a reality:

1 1/2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 3/4 tsp. kosher salt, divided
1/2 tsp. ground black pepper
5 Tbsp. salted butter, divided
12 oz. (about 3/4 pkg.) uncooked linguine pasta
2 large shallots, finely chopped (about 3/4 cup)
1/2 tsp. smoked paprika
1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp. lemon zest plus 1 1/2 Tbsp. fresh juice, divided
2/3 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
2 Tbsp. minced fresh flat-leaf parsley, divided
2 Tbsp. minced fresh chives

Notes & Substitutions

You can easily adapt this cowboy butter pasta recipe to your preferences. Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier protein option. Any long pasta, such as fettuccine or spaghetti, works well in place of linguine. For lighter dairy, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce may be thinner. Adjust the crushed red pepper to control the heat level. If you do not have fresh herbs, use 1/2 teaspoon each of dried parsley and dried chives. Swap shallots for finely diced red onion. Grana Padano offers a similar flavor profile if you do not have Parmesan.

Equipment

You will need a few basic kitchen items to prepare this Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta.

A large skillet or Dutch oven for cooking the chicken and sauce.
A large pot for boiling the pasta.
Standard measuring cups and spoons ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
A sharp knife and cutting board help you prepare your ingredients safely.
A zester or microplane makes quick work of lemon zest and garlic.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your delicious Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta.

Prep Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces, finely chop the shallots, mince the garlic, and zest and juice the lemon.
Cook Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and the black pepper. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the hot pan and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until it browns and cooks through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside, leaving any drippings in the skillet.
Cook Pasta: Meanwhile, cook the linguine according to the package directions for an al dente texture. Add 2 teaspoons of kosher salt to the boiling pasta water for flavor. Before draining the pasta, scoop out 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water and set it aside. This reserved water helps emulsify and thicken your sauce.
Sauté Aromatics: Return the skillet to medium-high heat. Melt the remaining 1/4 cup of butter in the pan. Add the chopped shallots, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Cook these aromatics for about 5 minutes, stirring until the shallots soften and become fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until aromatic.
Build Sauce: Add the lemon juice and zest to the skillet, stirring constantly for 1 minute. Pour in the heavy whipping cream and bring it to a light simmer over medium heat. Stir frequently, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly for about 5 minutes. Gradually stir in the freshly shredded Parmesan cheese until it melts completely and the sauce appears smooth.
Combine & Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the sauce mixture. Stir in 1 tablespoon of the chopped parsley and all the chives. Add the drained pasta to the chicken and sauce mixture in the skillet. Turn the heat to low. Stir in 1/4 cup of the reserved pasta water and toss until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes longer. If the sauce becomes too thick, add additional pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Serve your Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta immediately, sprinkled with the remaining 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Browning Chicken: Do not overcrowd your pan when cooking the chicken. Cook it in batches if necessary to ensure a proper sear and even browning.
Al Dente Pasta: Understanding the traditional Italian term “al dente” is crucial for achieving the perfect pasta texture, offering a pleasant bite that holds up to rich sauces. It should have a slight bite and finish cooking in the sauce without getting mushy. Learn more in this al dente pasta cooking guide.
Sauce Consistency: The reserved pasta water is key for a silky sauce. Add it gradually to achieve a smooth consistency for your cowboy butter chicken pasta.
Fresh Herbs: Stir in fresh herbs at the very end of cooking. This preserves their vibrant color and bright flavor.
Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your sauce before serving. Add more salt or pepper as needed to balance the flavors.
Lemon Freshness: Use fresh lemon juice and zest. Bottled lemon juice lacks the bright, essential oils that elevate the dish’s flavor.

Serving Suggestions & Variations

This Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad tossed with a simple vinaigrette or with warm, crusty bread to soak up every drop of the flavorful sauce.

Vegetable Additions

Make this pasta a complete meal by stirring in some fresh vegetables. Sauté fresh spinach with the shallots or add steamed broccoli florets during the last few minutes of simmering the sauce. Roasted asparagus or peas also make delicious additions.

Protein Swap

Experiment with other proteins for a different twist. Swap the chicken for pan-seared shrimp, cooked sliced sausage, or even a can of drained, rinsed cannellini beans for a vegetarian option.

Spice Level

If you enjoy more heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper to 1 teaspoon or more. For less spice, omit the red pepper entirely.

Cheese Options

While Parmesan is classic, consider adding a dash of tangy Pecorino Romano cheese along with the Parmesan for a bolder, saltier kick.

Storage & Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave.
Sauce Thinning: The sauce may thicken in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth, water, or a bit more cream to thin it back to your desired consistency.

Nutrition Information

Please note that nutritional values are estimates only. Calorie counts and other dietary information can vary depending on specific brands, preparation methods, and ingredient substitutions.

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	650 kcal
Total Fat	35g
Saturated Fat	20g
Cholesterol	120mg
Sodium	1100mg
Total Carbohydrates	55g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Sugars	2g
Protein	30g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use chicken thighs for this recipe? Yes, chicken thighs are a great choice. They cook up juicier and add more flavor to this creamy cowboy butter chicken pasta.
What kind of pasta is best for this dish? Linguine works well, but you can also use fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne if you prefer a shorter pasta shape.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Dairy-free substitutions for cream and cheese are available, but they will significantly alter the flavor and texture of the sauce.
How long does Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta last in the fridge? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

You now have the recipe for an incredibly flavorful and easy weeknight meal: Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta. This dish brings together tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, herbaceous, and subtly smoky cream sauce that your family will adore. It’s quick to prepare, versatile, and delivers on comfort. Give this cowboy butter chicken pasta a try and discover your new favorite go-to dinner. Feel free to personalize it with your favorite ingredients and make it your own!