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Cowboy Butter Chicken with lemon bowtie pasta and broccoli served on a plate

Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli

This flavorful, one-pan wonder combines tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a creamy, zesty sauce that’ll have you dreaming of seconds.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 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
  • 1 juiced 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

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Boil a pot of salted water and cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions.
  2. Add the broccoli florets during the last two minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
Cooking Chicken
  1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Season chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
  3. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Making the Sauce
  1. Reduce heat and add butter, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, and Parmesan to the skillet.
  2. Stir until melted and smooth. Add the reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
Combining Ingredients
  1. Toss the cooked pasta and broccoli into the skillet with the sauce.
  2. Mix well to coat everything evenly. Sprinkle with parsley and chives.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or in the microwave until warmed through.