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Cowboy cuisine is characterized by its hearty, robust flavors designed to fuel hard work and long days. The inspiration for Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta stems from this very ethos, embracing the idea that meals should be both satisfying and energizing. Traditionally, cowboy meals featured simple yet flavorful ingredients, often prepared in one pot over an open fire. This recipe pays homage to that tradition while infusing modern cooking techniques and ingredients that make it accessible to today’s home cooks.

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta – The Ultimate Comfort Dish

Get ready to indulge in a delicious bowl of Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta! This creamy, cheesy dish features tender chicken thighs, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich cowboy butter sauce that's bursting with flavor. With simple ingredients like garlic, smoked paprika, and fresh herbs, it’s easy to whip up in just 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or any gathering, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Garnish with green onions and parsley for an extra touch!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz pasta (fusilli or penne)

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, diced

4 tbsp unsalted butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tbsp Dijon mustard

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp garlic powder

½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

    Prepare the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the diced chicken thighs, season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

      Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard.

        Combine Ingredients: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Reduce heat to low and mix in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

          Mix Everything Together: Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated in the cheesy sauce.

            Serve: Divide the Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta into bowls, garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley. Enjoy while hot!

              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4