Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli

This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is a bright, comforting weeknight dinner that balances rich butter and Parmesan with a citrusy lemon lift. Bite-sized chicken pieces coated in Cajun spices give the dish a warm, smoky edge while bowtie pasta soaks up a silky Parmesan lemon sauce. Broccoli adds a tender-crisp contrast and a fresh green note. Expect a luscious mouthfeel from the butter and Parmesan, a light tang from the lemon juice and zest, and a little heat if you add the crushed red pepper flakes. This recipe is ideal for busy evenings, casual family dinners, or anytime you want a crowd-pleasing one-pan pasta that comes together fast. For a similar creamy pasta you can compare methods with this creamy rotisserie chicken and broccoli pasta to inspire side dishes and serving ideas.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  Tender, lean protein that cooks quickly when cut small.

• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
  Bowtie pasta holds the sauce well in its folds; cook to al dente.

• 2 cups broccoli florets
  Adds color, crunch, and nutrition; blanch briefly so it stays bright.

• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
  Provides a savory, slightly spicy base seasoning for the chicken.

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  For mellow garlic flavor without adding fresh garlic.

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  Adds a warm, smoky depth to the spice mix.

• Salt to taste
  Enhances all the flavors; add gradually and taste as you go.

• Black pepper to taste
  Freshly ground is best for a lively peppery note.

• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  For extra heat if you like a little kick.

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  Helps emulsify the sauce and adds subtle tang.

• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  Bright acidity and fragrant citrus oils to lift the butter sauce.

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  Fresh herb for a clean, leafy finish.

• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
  Mild oniony note that complements the lemon and Parmesan.

• 2 tbsp olive oil
  For searing the chicken and adding a bit of fruitiness.

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter
  Builds the rich, silky Cowboy Butter sauce.

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  Adds savory, nutty depth and helps thicken the sauce.

• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
  Starchy water to loosen and bind the sauce to the pasta.

If you enjoy simple skillet dinners you might also like this slow cooker lemon herb chicken with rice for a hands-off option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente, then reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the pasta. Tip: Reserve the water before draining so you can loosen the sauce later.

2. While the pasta cooks, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and prepare the lemon, parsley, and chives. Zest first, then juice the lemon to make measuring easier.

3. Briefly blanch the broccoli in the boiling pasta water for 2 minutes, then drain. This keeps the broccoli vivid and slightly crisp.

4. In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the 2 tablespoons olive oil and then the chicken, seasoning with 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, salt and black pepper to taste, and 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes if using. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes depending on piece size. Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan so the chicken browns evenly.

5. Remove the chicken and lower the heat. Add 6 tablespoons unsalted butter to the skillet to melt, then mix in 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, the juice and zest of 1 lemon, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan until smooth. Adjust consistency with the reserved 1/2 cup pasta water, adding a few tablespoons at a time until silky.

6. Add the drained pasta and blanched broccoli to the sauce in the skillet and toss to coat. Return the chicken to the skillet, add 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley and 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives, toss again, and serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top.

For a variation using similar pantry ideas check this baked feta eggs with tomatoes and spinach for inspiration on bright, herb-forward finishes.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 770 kcal per serving

For another hearty option with broccoli and beef flavors you can compare technique on this beef and broccoli Chinese recipe to adapt cooking times and vegetable textures.

Tips, Storage & Variations

Tips

• Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help it brown better.
• Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach the sauce thickness you prefer.
• Taste for salt after adding Parmesan, since the cheese is salty.

Storage

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to refresh the sauce.

Freezing

• This dish freezes okay without the fresh herbs. Cool completely, freeze in a shallow airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat slowly on the stove.

Flavor variations using existing ingredients only

• Increase the Cajun seasoning for a spicier profile.
• Omit the crushed red pepper flakes for a milder family-friendly version.
• Add extra lemon zest for more citrus aroma.
• Stir in a touch more butter at the end for an even silkier finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use another pasta shape?
A: Yes, any short pasta like penne or rigatoni will work similarly.

Q: Is it okay to use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes, thaw and drain it first, or blanch a little longer to remove excess water.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: This recipe relies on butter and Parmesan for texture and flavor, so dairy-free changes would alter the dish. Use dairy substitutes carefully.

Q: How do I prevent the sauce from separating?
A: Lower the heat before adding butter and whisk in Parmesan slowly, using reserved pasta water to bind the sauce.

Q: Can I cook the chicken ahead of time?
A: Yes, cook and refrigerate the chicken, then reheat briefly in the skillet before combining with pasta.

Q: What if my sauce is too thin?
A: Stir in a little more Parmesan or simmer a minute to reduce the sauce slightly.

People Also Ask

Q: How long does bowtie pasta take to cook?
A: Typically 10 to 12 minutes, but follow package directions and cook to al dente.

Q: What is Cowboy Butter?
A: Cowboy Butter is a rich, savory butter-based sauce often flavored with herbs, mustard, and citrus.

Q: Can I use skin-on chicken?
A: This recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken to keep cooking time consistent.

Q: Should I reserve pasta water every time I make pasta?
A: Yes, starchy pasta water is very helpful for adjusting sauce consistency.

Q: How do I get broccoli bright green when cooking?
A: Blanch briefly in boiling water, then drain or shock in ice water if not combining immediately.

Q: Is Dijon mustard necessary in the sauce?
A: Mustard helps emulsify the sauce and adds a touch of tang, but you can omit if desired.

Q: Can I double this recipe for a larger group?
A: Yes, double ingredients and use a larger pot and skillet to maintain cooking evenness.

Q: What sides pair well with this dish?
A: A simple green salad or crusty bread complements the richness of the pasta.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making this Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli for a flavorful, fast weeknight meal. If you want an alternate take on lemon chicken and broccoli, see this Lemon Chicken with Broccoli and Bow Ties recipe from Ina Garten for helpful technique ideas, or compare the original inspiration at Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli – Umami. Share a photo if you try it, and enjoy the bright, buttery flavors with family and friends.