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Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta: Easy Recipes for Quick Dinners & Healthy Meal Prep Ideas

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Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a comforting dish that pairs tender chicken and al dente pasta in a rich garlic butter sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups pasta (penne or rotini)
  • 1 pound chicken breast, diced
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside once al dente.
  2. Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the diced chicken breast and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Step 3: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
  4. Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined, creating a creamy sauce.
  5. Step 5: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving hot.

Notes

  • For optimal storage, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm the pasta on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore its creaminess. Serve this delicious dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a side of garlic bread for a delightful meal experience. For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in buttermilk before cooking; it’ll make the chicken even more tender and juicy!

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