Save to Pinterest A bold, creamy pasta dish featuring tender chicken, zesty spices, and a buttery garlic-Parmesan sauce with a hint of cayenne. Perfect for a comforting dinner with a kick.
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Ingredients
- Chicken & Seasoning: 450 g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference), Salt and pepper, to taste, 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Sauce: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, 4 cloves garlic, minced, 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth, 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, 1 cup (60 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, Juice of half a lemon, 1/3 cup finely chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
- Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) fettuccine or pasta of choice
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Instructions
- Step 1:
- Season the chicken pieces with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Step 2:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6 8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Step 3:
- Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Step 4:
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a simmer.
- Step 5:
- Stir in heavy cream and simmer 2 3 minutes.
- Step 6:
- Gradually add Parmesan, stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Step 7:
- Return chicken to skillet. Add lemon juice and chopped parsley; stir to combine.
- Step 8:
- Meanwhile, cook pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and add to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly.
- Step 9:
- Cook for 2 3 minutes more to let flavors meld.
- Step 10:
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.
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Required Tools
Large skillet, Large pot for boiling pasta, Chefs knife, Cutting board, Measuring cups and spoons, Wooden spoon or spatula, Colander
Allergen Information
Contains: Dairy (butter, cream, Parmesan), Wheat (pasta). May contain: Gluten (pasta) check pasta packaging for gluten-free options if needed. Always verify ingredient labels if you have food allergies.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 650, Total Fat: 32 g, Carbohydrates: 54 g, Protein: 38 g
Save to Pinterest 
This cowboy butter chicken pasta brings bold flavors and creamy comfort together effortlessly.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of chicken works best for this dish?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces ensure even cooking and tender bites throughout the dish.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, the cayenne pepper can be increased or decreased according to your preferred level of heat without compromising flavor.
- → Is there a recommended pasta type?
Fettuccine is traditional, but other pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni work well for holding the rich sauce.
- → Can I substitute any ingredients for a lighter version?
Replacing heavy cream with half-and-half provides a lighter but still creamy texture in the sauce.
- → How do I ensure the chicken is fully cooked?
Cook chicken pieces until no longer pink and juices run clear, or reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
