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Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe

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3.9 from 37 reviews

This Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a comforting and flavorful American dish featuring tender chicken thighs cooked in a rich, herb-infused butter sauce, tossed with linguine pasta, cream, and Parmesan cheese. Enhanced with vibrant bell peppers and shallots, this all-in-one pan meal delivers a creamy, savory, and slightly tangy bite perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or cozy weekend indulgence.

  • Author: Sarah
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

For the Cowboy Butter

  • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley
  • 1 tbsp chopped chives
  • 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • Pinch red pepper flakes
  • ½ lemon juice and zest

For the Pasta

  • 12 oz (340g) linguine pasta
  • 2 tsp salt (for pasta water)

For the Chicken and Vegetables

  • 6 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless, cut into strips or bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large shallot, finely diced
  • 1 cup (150g) sliced bell peppers (mix of red, yellow, and orange)
  • 4 cloves garlic, sliced

To Finish

  • 4 tbsp cowboy butter (from above)
  • ½ cup (120ml) heavy/double cream
  • 4 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Make the Cowboy Butter: In a small bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, chopped parsley and chives, thyme leaves, sweet paprika, salt, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice plus zest. Mix thoroughly and set aside. This butter can be prepared ahead and refrigerated until needed. Reserve about half for the pasta recipe.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (using 2 tsp salt). Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta cooking water before draining to use later for adjusting sauce consistency.
  3. Prepare the Chicken: While pasta cooks, cut chicken thighs into strips or bite-sized pieces. Season evenly with salt, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.
  4. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or chef’s pan over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and sear quickly for about 4 minutes, ensuring a golden exterior but not fully cooked through yet.
  5. Sauté Vegetables and Finish Chicken: Reduce the heat slightly to medium. Add the diced shallot, sliced garlic, and bell peppers to the pan with the chicken. Stir frequently and cook until the vegetables soften and chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C), about 4-6 more minutes.
  6. Add Cowboy Butter and Pasta: Stir in 4 tablespoons of the prepared cowboy butter to the chicken and vegetable mixture. Add the drained linguine pasta and toss everything together gently to combine, coating the pasta with the buttery sauce.
  7. Finish the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, then add the grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. Stir well to incorporate. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If the sauce is too thick, use reserved pasta water to loosen to your preferred consistency.
  8. Serve: Plate the Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta immediately. Serve with lemon wedges, additional Parmesan cheese, and optionally garlic bread on the side for a hearty, comforting meal.

Notes

  • Feel free to add more vegetables such as zucchini, fresh spinach, or cherry tomatoes to the cowboy butter sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Using reserved pasta water helps create a silky, velvety sauce without relying solely on cream; adjust to your desired sauce consistency.
  • Check chicken doneness with an instant-read thermometer; it should reach 165°F (75°C) internally. Cooking time for strips is usually 8-10 minutes over medium heat.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Find it online: https://cookingwithsarah.com/cowboy-butter-chicken-pasta-recipe/