Jump to Recipe Print RecipeWith a hint of spice and a splash of zest, this Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is about to become your go-to weeknight recipe. Imagine tender pieces of chicken entwined with creamy bowtie pasta and vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a tangy sauce that makes everyone at the table sit up and take notice. Not only is this dish a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also quick to whip up, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you crave homemade comfort food. With a delightful twist that even gets the kids excited about their veggies, this meal truly brings the whole family together. Curious about how to create this deliciousness in your own kitchen? Let’s dive in! Why is this recipe a must-try? Simplicity at its finest: With minimal prep and cooking time, this Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is perfect for busy weeknights. Flavor-packed magic: The combination of spices, tangy lemon, and creamy sauce creates a dish bursting with exciting flavors that everyone will love. Vegetable goodness: Fresh broccoli not only adds color but also boosts nutrition, making it a great way to sneak veggies into your family’s diet. Crowd-pleaser: Loved by both kids and adults alike, this dish makes dinnertime a joy, turning even the pickiest eaters into veggie fans. Versatile options: Feel free to swap the vegetables or pasta types, so you can personalize it to your liking or use up what you have on hand. For an equally delightful dish, check out my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves or the refreshing Lemon Butter Pasta that make for quick alternatives! Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Ingredients For the Chicken • Chicken (1 lb boneless, skinless breasts) – Main protein; cut into bite-sized pieces for easy cooking. For the Pasta • Bowtie Pasta (12 oz) – The base of the dish; adds visual appeal, and gluten-free pasta can be used as a substitute. For the Vegetables • Broccoli (2 cups florets) – Adds nutrition and vibrant color; can be replaced with other veggies like bell peppers or spinach. For the Seasonings • Cajun Seasoning (1 tsp) – Provides spice and depth; substitute with Italian seasoning or a mix of paprika and salt if needed. • Garlic Powder (1/2 tsp) – Enhances flavor significantly. • Smoked Paprika (1/2 tsp) – Adds a delightful smoky taste. • Salt and Black Pepper – Basic seasoning, adjust to taste. • Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 tsp, optional) – For extra heat if desired. For the Sauce • Dijon Mustard (1 tsp) – Offers tanginess to the sauce for added depth. • Lemon (Juice and zest of 1) – Brings brightness and acidity to balance flavors in the Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli. • Unsalted Butter (6 tbsp) – Key fat for the sauce, contributing to creaminess. • Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – For cooking the chicken and adding flavor. • Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup + extra for topping) – For a rich, cheesy finish to the dish. For Finishing Touches • Fresh Parsley and Chives (2 tbsp and 1 tbsp, chopped) – Fresh herbs for garnish and added flavor. • Reserved Pasta Water (1/2 cup) – Adjusts sauce consistency and adds starch for creaminess. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Step 1: Boil Pasta and Broccoli Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the bowtie pasta, cooking it for about 8-10 minutes until al dente. When there are just 3 minutes left, carefully add the broccoli florets to the pot. Reserve ½ cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta and broccoli together, allowing them to sit in the colander. Step 2: Season the Chicken While your pasta and broccoli are cooking, take a large bowl and season the cubed chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Make sure each piece is generously coated for maximum flavor, then set it aside as you prepare to cook the chicken. Step 3: Cook the Chicken Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Step 4: Prepare the Sauce In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, reduce the heat to medium and add 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in minced garlic, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, mix in crushed red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, and the juice and zest of one lemon. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste, letting it simmer for a couple of minutes. Step 5: Combine Pasta and Chicken Add the drained bowtie pasta and broccoli to the skillet, along with the cooked chicken. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta, chicken, and vegetables are well coated in the Cowboy Butter sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, a splash at a time, to reach your desired creaminess. Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Herbs Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and creamy, giving the dish a rich flavor. Allow everything to heat through for another minute or so, then remove from heat. Serve the Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli warm, garnished with additional Parmesan, fresh parsley, and chives for a beautiful presentation. Expert Tips for Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Creaminess Boost: Increase the butter and Parmesan for an even richer sauce—just be careful not to overdo it, as it can become too rich. Pasta Perfection: Always cook the bowtie pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce. Veggie Variety: Feel free to swap in different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini; this keeps the dish fresh and exciting, while still highlighting the Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli. Seasoning Sensation: Taste and adjust seasonings before serving—adding a little extra salt or a squeeze of lemon juice can pitch the flavor over the top. Storing Smarts: If you plan to have leftovers, do not mix all the sauce in with the pasta; it might dry out. Keep the sauce separate to add later, preserving creaminess. What to Serve with Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Looking to make your dinner even more memorable? Pair these delightful flavors with some complementary sides to create a full and satisfying meal. Garlic Bread: This warm, toasty side adds a comforting crunch and is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish and adds a refreshing bite. Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted until slightly caramelized enhance the dish with a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the lemon. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Velvety mashed potatoes create a soothing contrast to the zesty pasta, making it an ultimate comfort food combination. Imagine the creamy goodness melded with savory flavors! Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, this light, refreshing sorbet cleanses the palate and echoes the citrus notes from the main dish, making it a perfect sweet ending. Iced Tea with Mint: This cool, refreshing beverage adds a touch of herbaceous sweetness, enhancing the meal’s flavors while keeping it casual and enjoyable. Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Variations Embrace your creativity with these delightful twists on the Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli! Your taste buds are in for a treat. Vegetable Medley: Toss in additional veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for a pop of color and nutrition. Mix and match based on what you have on hand for a delightful surprise. Gluten-Free Swap: Use gluten-free pasta like brown rice or chickpea pasta instead of bowtie. You’ll enjoy the same creamy goodness without the gluten, ensuring everyone can indulge. Herb Swap: Replace parsley and chives with fresh basil or thyme to infuse a different herbaceous flavor. Each offers a unique twist, elevating the dish’s essence. Cheese Variations: Opt for a mix of cheddar or mozzarella if Parmesan isn’t on hand. This swap enhances the creaminess while offering a charmingly different flavor profile. Creamy Alternative: For a richer sauce, substitute half the butter with cream cheese, ensuring a smooth and irresistible texture. This indulgence will leave everyone wanting more. Heat it Up: If you’re craving some spice, add jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the sauce. This’ll definitely bring a lively kick to your creamy dish. Protein Options: Swap chicken for shrimp or even cubed tofu for a different protein experience. Both options love to soak up that flavorful sauce! For more delicious ideas, check out my Fiery Chicken Ramen for a spicy treat or indulge in the comforting Grilled Chicken Broccoli for a wholesome family meal. Each variation makes it easy to personalize your dish while keeping mealtime exciting! How to Store and Freeze Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Room Temperature: This dish is best enjoyed immediately; however, if left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure food safety. Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water to restore creaminess. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli for up to 1 month. Place in freezer-safe containers, and remember to leave space for expansion. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove, adding a little reserved pasta water to maintain the creamy texture. Make Ahead Options These Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours in advance to let those flavors deepen. Additionally, you can cook the bowtie pasta and broccoli together and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Just be sure to drizzle a little olive oil over the pasta to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the chicken and follow the remaining steps to finish the sauce. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, even on your busiest weeknights! Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Recipe FAQs What is the best way to select chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! When choosing chicken, look for boneless, skinless breasts that are pink and firm, avoiding any that have dark spots or an off smell. Fresh chicken ensures the best flavor and texture in your Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli dish. How can I store leftovers from Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli? Very wisely! Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When storing, consider separating the sauce from the pasta to prevent it from soaking up too much moisture. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a skillet with a splash of water, stirring gently to restore that creamy texture. Can I freeze Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli? Of course! To freeze, place the dish in freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space for expansion. It will keep well frozen for up to 1 month. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, and then warm it on the stove with a little reserved pasta water to bring back that creaminess. What should I do if my sauce is too thick? Not a problem at all! If your sauce is thicker than you’d like, simply add the reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time while stirring, until it reaches your desired consistency. This water not only adjusts the thickness but also helps to keep the sauce creamy and delicious! Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Absolutely! If you or someone dining with you has dietary restrictions, this recipe can be easily adjusted. For a gluten-free option, simply swap the bowtie pasta with gluten-free pasta. If there’s an allergy to dairy, you could use a dairy-free butter alternative and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese to keep the flavor vibrant while accommodating dietary needs. How can I make sure my broccoli is fresh for this recipe? Very well! When selecting broccoli, choose heads that are bright green with tight florets and no signs of yellowing or wilting. Fresh broccoli not only looks appealing but also adds a crispy texture and full nutritional benefits to your Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli. Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Bliss This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is a flavorful weeknight recipe that delights the whole family. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 lb Chicken breasts, boneless and skinless Cut into bite-sized piecesFor the Pasta12 oz Bowtie pasta Gluten-free pasta can be used as a substituteFor the Vegetables2 cups Broccoli florets Can be replaced with other veggiesFor the Seasonings1 tsp Cajun seasoning Substitute with Italian seasoning if needed1/2 tsp Garlic powder1/2 tsp Smoked paprikaSalt and black pepper Adjust to taste1/2 tsp Crushed red pepper flakes Optional for extra heatFor the Sauce1 tsp Dijon mustardJuice and zest of 1 Lemon Brings brightness to the sauce6 tbsp Unsalted butter Key fat for the sauce2 tbsp Olive oil For cooking the chicken1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Plus extra for toppingFor Finishing Touches2 tbsp Fresh parsley, chopped For garnish1 tbsp Chives, chopped For garnish1/2 cup Reserved pasta water To adjust sauce consistency Equipment Large potLarge skilletcolanderMeasuring cupsMeasuring spoons Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBoil a large pot of salted water. Add bowtie pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. In the last 3 minutes, add broccoli. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.In a bowl, season cubed chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove and set aside.In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, stir in garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and Dijon mustard. Mix in lemon juice and zest, then simmer.Add drained pasta and broccoli with the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat in sauce. Adjust thickness with reserved pasta water, if needed.Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Serve warm, garnished with extra cheese, parsley, and chives. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 90mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 1 month. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
