Go Back
creamy-cowboy-butter-chicken-pasta--easy-recipes-for-quick-dinners---healthy-meal-prep-ideas_feature

Creamy Cowboy Butter Pasta with Chicken - Quick Weeknight Dinner Recipe

This creamy cowboy butter pasta combines tender chicken with a rich, herb-infused butter sauce that comes together in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this recipe delivers bold Western flavors that the whole family will love.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 lb fettuccine or linguine pasta
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions in a large pot of salted water. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in smoked paprika, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using.
  4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until well coated.
  6. Stir in fresh parsley and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

This pasta reheats beautifully for meal prep. Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days. For best results when reheating, add a splash of milk to refresh the creamy sauce. Fresh herbs elevate the flavor significantly compared to dried herbs.