Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli

The aroma of sizzling chicken mingles with the bright scent of lemon, creating an irresistible dish that beckons your family to the dinner table. This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a delicious weekend treat. The combination of flavorful spices and buttery sauce ensures every bite is satisfying and full of life.

This recipe is ideal for anyone craving a quick and delicious meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It’s perfect for a weeknight family dinner or a small gathering with friends. You can make the chicken and sauce a day in advance and simply reheat before serving for added convenience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The chicken is perfectly seared, delivering a juicy and flavorful bite every time.
• The combination of lemon and butter creates a rich and tangy sauce that’s irresistible.
• Bowtie pasta provides a delightful texture that complements the tender broccoli.
• It all comes together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

For the Chicken

• 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

For the Sauce

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 lemon, zest and juice
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped

For the Pasta

• 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)

Remember to adjust seasoning based on your taste preference.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Cajun seasoning: use Old Bay or Italian seasoning.
• Fresh herbs: dried herbs can also be used.
• Gluten-free pasta: substitute with gluten-free bowtie pasta.
• Lemon: lime can work in a pinch.

How to Make It

Creating this flavorful dish is simple and quick.

Season

Season chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.

Cook

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and sear undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes. Turn and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 6 to 7 minutes total. Confirm internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F. Remove and set aside.

Melt

Lower heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet and melt, scraping up the browned bits. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Do not let it burn.

Stir

Stir in red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Add parsley and chives. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine

Return chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce. Add reserved pasta water a small splash at a time until the sauce is smooth and silky.

Finish

Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Serve warm with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs on top.

How to Store It

Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: no, the sauce may separate when thawed.
Reheat: warm on the stovetop over low heat for 5-7 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Allow the chicken to rest after cooking for better juiciness.
• Adjust the level of crushed red pepper for your spice tolerance.
• Make sure to reserve the pasta water for a silkier sauce.
• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor impact.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Enjoy with a crisp white wine for a delightful dining experience.