Why Make This Recipe

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a delicious and comforting meal that combines tender chicken with rich, buttery sauce. The blend of garlic, spices, and fresh parsley gives this dish a cozy feel, making it ideal for family dinners or quick weeknight meals. It’s simple to prepare and packs a punch of flavor that everyone will love.

How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Ingredients

8 oz linguine
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1/2 cup unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Directions

Cook the linguine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the shredded chicken, paprika, and cayenne pepper, cooking until heated through.
Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the butter and chicken mixture.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Serve the Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top. It pairs nicely with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. You can also add a twist by offering extra red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a little heat!

How to Store Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.

Tips to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it holds up well when mixed with the sauce.
You can use rotisserie chicken to save time and hassle.
Feel free to adjust the spice levels by adding more or less cayenne pepper based on your preference.

Variation

You can easily switch this recipe up by adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for extra nutrition and color. For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as fettuccine or penne.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance, but the pasta may absorb some of the sauce, so you might need to add a little extra butter or broth when reheating.

Is it possible to make this recipe spicy?
Absolutely! Besides using cayenne pepper, you can add chopped jalapeños or use spicy seasoned chicken to amp up the heat.