Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta; 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 cup heavy cream; 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 2 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Jack Ellison

Update : March 29, 2026

Delicious creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta topped with herbs and spices.

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Why make this recipe

Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta is a delicious and hearty meal that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta into one tasty dish. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. The rich flavors of garlic and Italian seasoning elevate the dish, making it comforting and satisfying.

How to make Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
3 tbsp unsalted butter
1 cup heavy cream
4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
2 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot, add the pasta, and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and let rest.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add the heavy cream and stir until slightly thickened.
Combine: Slice the rested chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the skillet with the drained pasta. Toss gently in the sauce until well coated.
Serve: Plate generously and garnish with extra Italian seasoning or freshly grated Parmesan if desired.

How to serve Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Serve the Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta hot, garnished with fresh Italian seasoning or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. It’s best enjoyed right after cooking when the sauce is creamy and the chicken is tender.

How to store Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream to keep the sauce creamy.

Tips to make Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate in Italian seasoning for about 30 minutes before cooking.
You can add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers to the pasta for more nutrition.
Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more or less heavy cream according to your preference.

Variation

For a healthier version, you can use whole wheat pasta and substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt. This will give you a lighter sauce while still being creamy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! You can use any pasta you like, such as spaghetti, linguine, or even gluten-free pasta.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Cook the pasta just before serving for the best texture.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?
While you can freeze it, the texture of the pasta may change upon thawing. It’s best to store the chicken and sauce separately from the pasta if you plan to freeze.