Creamy Cowboy Chicken & Kielbasa Skillet with Patty Pan Squash

Creamy, smoky, and packed with bold cowboy flavor—this Chicken & Kielbasa Skillet is a one-pan wonder you’ll crave all year. #skilletmeals #cowboybutter #easychickenrecipes

This Creamy Cowboy Chicken & Kielbasa Skillet is the kind of weeknight dinner that feels both exciting and completely comforting. It brings together juicy chicken, smoky kielbasa sausage, tender patty pan squash, and a rich, spicy cowboy butter sauce—all in one pan. It’s bold, creamy, and just a little bit unexpected.

This mashup recipe is perfect for when you want something hearty, flavorful, and a bit different from the usual dinner rotation. The combo of smoky sausage and creamy butter sauce wrapped around crisp-tender squash makes this a dinner that gets people talking—and coming back for seconds.

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1. Yield, Time & Tools

• Yield: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Tools Needed: Large skillet, knife, cutting board, tongs, measuring cups and spoons

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2. Ingredients

For the Skillet:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced
• 8 oz kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds
• 2 cups patty pan squash, sliced (or substitute zucchini/yellow squash)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Cowboy Butter Sauce:

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped chives
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish:

• Grated Parmesan
• Extra herbs

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3. Preparation Steps

A. Sear the Chicken and Kielbasa

Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Add kielbasa to the same skillet and cook until slightly crispy. Remove and set aside with the chicken.

B. Sauté the Squash

In the same skillet, add a touch more oil if needed. Sauté patty pan squash for 4–5 minutes until just tender and golden. Remove and set aside.

C. Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce

Lower heat to medium. Melt butter in the skillet. Add garlic and cook 1 minute. Stir in Dijon, lemon juice, zest, paprika, cayenne, red pepper flakes, parsley, and chives. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in cream and simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

D. Combine and Simmer

Return chicken, kielbasa, and squash to the skillet. Toss everything to coat. Simmer 2–3 minutes to heat through and let flavors meld.

E. Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle with Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot.

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4. Tips & Variations

• Swap patty pan squash with zucchini or summer squash if needed.
• Use spicy kielbasa for an extra kick.
• Add cooked pasta or rice to make it a complete one-pan meal.
• Skip cream and use a splash of broth for a lighter version.

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5. Troubleshooting FAQ

Why is my sauce separating?
Make sure to stir in the cream slowly over medium heat—avoid boiling.

Can I make it less spicy?
Skip the cayenne and red pepper flakes—flavor still shines through.

Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, but thaw and pat dry first to prevent excess moisture.

Can I prep ahead?
Yes—cook the meat and slice the veggies ahead of time. Assemble just before dinner.

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6. Serving Suggestions

• Serve over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
• Pair with garlic bread or cornbread.
• Add a crisp green salad to lighten the plate.
• Use leftovers in a wrap or grain bowl.

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7. Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of cream or broth.
• Make-Ahead Tips: Prep sauce ingredients and chop everything ahead of time.
• Freezer Instructions: Not recommended for freezing due to the creamy sauce.