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Welcome to the world of Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta, a dish that brings together the rustic charm of cowboy cooking and the comforting essence of a hearty pasta meal. With its rich, buttery sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables, this recipe is perfect for those who crave bold flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you're a busy parent looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an individual wanting a rewarding culinary experience after a long day, this dish is sure to please.

Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta – The Ultimate Comfort Dish

Whip up a deliciously creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta in just 30 minutes! This easy recipe features tender chicken thighs sautéed to perfection and combined with penne pasta, fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, and a rich butter sauce infused with garlic and spices. Finished with grated Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon for brightness, it's the perfect weeknight dinner that everyone will love. Try it tonight for a taste of the Wild West in your kitchen!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) penne pasta

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, diced

4 tbsp unsalted butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp chili powder

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup chicken broth

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup spinach, fresh

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

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

    Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove 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 chopped onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.

        Add Spices: Stir in the smoked paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

          Create the Cream Sauce: Slowly pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly, about 3-5 minutes.

            Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet along with the cherry tomatoes and spinach. Cook until the spinach has wilted and the tomatoes are slightly softened, about 3 minutes.

              Mix with Pasta: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing everything to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

                Taste and Adjust: Season with additional salt, pepper, or spices as needed.

                  Serve: Divide the Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta among plates. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty kick.

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