Introduction
Welcome to a delightful journey of flavors with this Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta! This dish combines tender chicken, bursting cherry tomatoes, and a creamy sauce that’s so rich it feels like a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests on the weekend, this pasta will quickly become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the luscious details!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of pasta (any preferred type)
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1 pound of chicken breast, diced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1 cup of shredded parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, allowing it to cool slightly.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until it’s bubbly and fragrant.
- Add the diced chicken into the skillet, seasoning it well with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, letting the wonderful aroma fill your kitchen.
- Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook them until they start to soften, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to blend all the flavors together.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes velvety.
- Carefully stir in the cooked pasta and shredded parmesan cheese, mixing everything together until the pasta is completely coated in the creamy sauce.
- Remove the skillet from heat and garnish your delicious creation with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes or Tips
For a little extra heat, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños. You can also substitute the chicken with shrimp or vegetables for a delightful twist. This dish can be made ahead of time; just warm it gently before serving for the best results.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes sautéing and simmering techniques to develop flavor and create a beautiful, creamy sauce. Be sure to sauté the garlic only until fragrant to avoid bitterness, and keep an eye on the simmer so the sauce thickens perfectly without overcooking.
FAQ
- Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.
- What pasta types work best? While this recipe works well with any pasta, I recommend fettuccine or penne to capture that creamy sauce beautifully.
Conclusion
Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. With its creamy texture, bold flavors, and vibrant colors, it’s sure to win hearts at your dining table. So gather your loved ones, serve a generous portion, and watch as this delightful meal brings smiles all around. Happy cooking!