Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli

Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is a vibrant dish bursting with flavor and comfort. The blend of tender chicken, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, and bright broccoli, all drizzled in a buttery lemon sauce, makes for an indulgent yet easy recipe that is perfect for busy nights or family gatherings. I stumbled upon this recipe during a chaotic week while trying to whip up something quick yet satisfying, and it quickly became a staple in my household. The combination of spices and fresh herbs adds a unique touch that elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This recipe checks all the boxes: it’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and kid-approved, making it the ultimate dinner solution! Imagine serving this flavorful dish on a hectic weeknight when all you want is something hearty and comforting. The rich cowboy butter sauce with a hint of lemon balances beautifully with the chicken and pasta, ensuring everyone at the table cleans their plate.

"I made this for my family, and they couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was! It’s become our new favorite weeknight meal!"

For those looking to meal prep, this dish keeps well in the fridge and is easy to reheat, making it an excellent choice to cook in bulk.

Preparing Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli

To make this delicious dish, you’ll start by cooking the pasta and broccoli together, which saves time and keeps everything simple. Next, we’ll sauté the chicken until golden brown and melty, and then combine all the elements with a buttery lemon sauce. The process is straightforward, keeping the cooking enjoyable and stress-free. Here’s how it flows:

Boil the pasta and broccoli.
Sauté the chicken with spices.
Whip up the cowboy butter sauce with lemon and herbs.
Combine all ingredients, adding a splash of pasta water for creaminess.
Serve and enjoy!

What You’ll Need

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
1 tsp Cajun seasoning
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
6 tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup reserved pasta water

Feel free to swap out the broccoli for any other vegetable you prefer, like spinach or asparagus!

Directions to Follow

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions. In the last 2-3 minutes, throw in the broccoli florets. Once cooked, drain the pasta and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
Add the diced chicken in a single layer. Season with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Sauté until the chicken turns golden brown and is cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Stir until melted.
Incorporate the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and zest into the melted butter. If you like a kick, toss in the crushed red pepper flakes.
Return the chicken to the skillet, followed by the cooked pasta and broccoli. Mix everything well, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce is too thick.
Finish by sprinkling fresh parsley, chives, and grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. Serve in bowls, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs as desired.

How to Serve Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli

For an appealing presentation, serve this dish in large, shallow bowls. Top each serving with an additional sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh herbs for pop. Pair it with a light green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A chilled glass of white wine or refreshing lemonade complements it beautifully as well.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

When it comes to storage, you can keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to help the sauce regain its creamy texture.

Helpful Cooking Tips

For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the Cajun seasoning for an hour before cooking.
Adjust the spice level by modifying the amount of crushed red pepper.
Using fresh herbs like basil or thyme can add an interesting twist!

Recipe Variations

Feel free to switch up the flavors! Try adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for an extra veggie boost. If you’re looking for a lighter version, replace the butter with olive oil, or use a whole grain pasta for added nutrition.

Your Questions Answered

How long does this take to prepare?
From start to finish, you can have this dish ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be substituted; just add it to the pasta for the last 3-4 minutes of cooking.
What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat it gently on the stovetop with a splash of reserved pasta water to maintain creaminess.