High-Protein Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta

Cowboy butter brings a bold American steakhouse kick—garlic, lemon, Dijon, and smoky heat melted into a silky sauce. This high-protein chicken pasta tosses tender strips and short noodles in that buttery bath for a quick one-pan dinner.

Serves 4 · 15 min prep · 20 min cook

Estimate for one serving

• 580 cal
• 46g protein
• 42g carbs
• 26g fat
• 3g fiber

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Ingredients

• 1.25 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 10 oz short pasta (penne or rotini)
• 6 tbsp butter
• 5, minced garlic cloves
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. 1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until just al dente according to package timing, then reserve a splash of pasta water and drain.
2. 2While the pasta cooks, cut the chicken breasts into bite-size strips and season generously with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. 3Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
4. 4Add the chicken in a single layer and sear 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through to 165°F; transfer to a plate.
5. 5Reduce heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet, scraping up any browned bits.
6. 6Stir in the minced garlic and cook 45 to 60 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
7. 7Whisk in lemon juice, Dijon mustard, cayenne, and red pepper flakes, then pour in chicken broth and heavy cream.
8. 8Simmer the sauce 3 to 4 minutes until slightly thickened and glossy.
9. 9Return the cooked chicken and any juices to the skillet, then add the drained pasta and toss to coat.
10. 10Stir in grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, and chives until the cheese melts into a silky cowboy-butter sauce; loosen with reserved pasta water if needed.
11. 11Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper, then simmer one final minute so flavors marry.
12. 12Divide into warm bowls, finish with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and chives, and serve immediately.