Ever tasted a dish that practically dances on your taste buds?
If you haven’t yet tried Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli, then prepare to be amazed! This flavorful, one-pan wonder combines tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a creamy, zesty sauce that’ll have you dreaming of seconds. Let’s just say it’s the kind of meal that’s not only quick to prepare but also feels like a warm hug from the inside out.
Why make this recipe?
You’re in for a treat with this easy dish! Here are a few reasons you’ll love it:
- Easy Cleanup: Who wants a mountain of dishes? Not me! This recipe uses just one pan, leaving you more time to kick back and relax after dinner.
- Family-Friendly: With a delightful mix of pasta, chicken, and broccoli, this dish pleases even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s packed with flavors that everyone raves about.
- Quick and Delicious: Perfect for a weeknight that calls for comfort food without sending you into a cooking frenzy.
Ingredients:
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (Adjust according to spice preference)
- 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 (For cooking chicken)
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter (For the sauce)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (Plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (To adjust sauce consistency)
Directions:
Time to get cooking! Follow these simple steps:
- Preparation: Boil a pot of salted water and cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Add the broccoli florets during the last two minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
- Cooking Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Making the Sauce: Reduce heat and add butter, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, and Parmesan to the skillet. Stir until melted and smooth. Add the reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
- Combining Ingredients: Toss the cooked pasta and broccoli into the skillet with the sauce. Mix well to coat everything evenly. Sprinkle with parsley and chives, and give it a warm hug of flavor!
How to make Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli (Overview)
So, here’s the scoop: you start by cooking your pasta and broccoli, then sear your chicken in a pan until it’s irresistibly golden. Next, melt a heavenly blend of butter, lemons, and cheese right there in the pan for a sauce that’s oh-so-delicious. Finally, combine all that goodness together until every bite is drizzled in that creamy sauce. Quick tip? Don’t skip toasting the garlic—it makes all the difference!
How to serve Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
Feeling fancy? Serve your Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken atop a colorful plate, and garnish it with extra parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Pair it with a crisp side salad for a pop of color and crunch or some warm, crusty bread to soak up that glorious sauce. Your dining space will be filled with amazing aromas that’ll have everyone sitting at the table, eagerly waiting to dig in!
How to store Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
Leftovers? Score! Store any uneaten Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, toss it back into a skillet with a splash of water for added moisture, or pop it in the microwave until warmed through.
Tips to make Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
- Cook chicken in batches: If you have a lot of chicken, don’t overcrowd the pan. It’ll cook better if you do it in batches.
- Swap in veggies: Feel free to toss in whatever veggies you have on hand, like spinach or peas—mix it up!
- Make it cheesy: Add extra Parmesan on top before serving for a richer flavor.
- Adjust the spice: Don’t be shy with the Cajun seasoning if you like it spicy, but start small if you’re unsure.
Variation
Want to shake things up a bit? Go for a vegan twist! Swap the chicken for cubed tofu and use vegan butter in the sauce. You can also play around with different herbs or add some zest with crushed red pepper for a more playful heat.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can cook everything and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat once you’re ready to enjoy.Can I use different types of pasta?
You bet! Any shape will work, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary.What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
Just add more reserved pasta water a bit at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
Ingredients
Method
- Boil a pot of salted water and cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions.
- Add the broccoli florets during the last two minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Season chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Reduce heat and add butter, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, and Parmesan to the skillet.
- Stir until melted and smooth. Add the reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
- Toss the cooked pasta and broccoli into the skillet with the sauce.
- Mix well to coat everything evenly. Sprinkle with parsley and chives.
