Description
This Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a rich and indulgent dish featuring tender, seasoned chicken breasts cooked to perfection and tossed with al dente pasta in a luscious garlic-infused butter cream sauce. The Italian seasoning adds a fragrant herbaceous note, making it a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Pasta
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
Sauce and Seasoning
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook it until al dente, about 8-10 minutes depending on the pasta type. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, taking care not to burn it. Pour in the heavy cream and stir continuously until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine chicken and pasta: Slice the rested chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Return the chicken and the drained pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
- Serve: Plate the creamy chicken pasta immediately while hot. Optionally, garnish with extra Italian seasoning or freshly grated Parmesan cheese to elevate the flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for the most vibrant flavor; garlic powder can be substituted in a pinch.
- For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Parmesan cheese makes an excellent garnish, adding a savory depth to the dish.
- Ensure not to overcook the pasta; drain when it is firm to the bite to avoid mushiness.
- Resting the chicken after cooking helps keep it juicy and tender.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Creamy chicken pasta, garlic butter chicken, Italian seasoning pasta, creamy pasta recipe, easy chicken dinner
