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Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta in a skillet with golden chicken slices and garlic butter cream sauce over fettuccine

Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

A rich and satisfying weeknight pasta with golden seared chicken in a velvety garlic butter cream sauce. Ready in 35 minutes with simple pantry ingredients.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 680

Ingredients
  

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

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Colander
  • Cutting board
  • Chef's knife

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions, usually 9 to 11 minutes. Drain and set aside. Do not rinse the pasta.
  2. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. Remove from the skillet and let rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.
  3. In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir continuously for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  4. Slice the rested chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the chicken and drained pasta to the skillet. Toss gently until everything is fully coated in the sauce. Plate and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan or extra Italian seasoning if desired.

Notes

For best results, use fresh garlic instead of jarred. Slightly undercook the pasta if making ahead so it holds its texture after reheating. Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.