Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli

Name: Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 tsp Cajun seasoning; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 6 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tsp Dijon mustard; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped; 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1/2 cup reserved pasta water; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

Welcome to my kitchen, where today, we’re diving into a delicious dish that’s sure to make your taste buds dance! Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is exactly the kind of comfort food you need after a long day. With its vibrant flavors and easy preparation, this recipe is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.

Imagine tender chicken pieces, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, and fresh broccoli all tossed in a rich, buttery sauce with a hint of lemon. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration on a plate! Plus, it comes together in about 40 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Let’s talk about those key ingredients. The combination of Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika gives the chicken a delightful kick, while the fresh lemon juice and zest brighten up the dish. And who can resist the creamy richness of melted butter and Parmesan cheese? Let’s get started!

Ingredients

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

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente.
Add broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Lower heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, add garlic and cook until fragrant.
Stir in red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper.
Return chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water as needed.
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Serve warm with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs.

Tips & Variations

Make it Spicy: Add more crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit more heat!
Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian meal.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Herb Variations: Experiment with herbs like thyme or basil to customize the flavor to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is delightful on its own, but you can elevate your meal by pairing it with a fresh green salad or some crusty garlic bread. For drinks, consider a chilled white wine or a refreshing lemonade to complement the lemony flavors.

Conclusion

There you have it! A scrumptious, flavorful dish that’s easy to whip up and sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli will not disappoint. Enjoy every bite and feel free to make it your own!

FAQ

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes! You can cook the chicken and pasta ahead of time, then just combine everything when you’re ready to serve.

What can I substitute for bowtie pasta?

You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli, and still achieve delicious results.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, but it’s best to freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the pasta and broccoli. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.