Introduction

This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is a delightful blend of zesty lemon, rich butter, and tender chicken tossed with bowtie pasta and fresh broccoli. It’s a comforting yet fresh dish perfect for a hearty weeknight meal that comes together quickly on the stovetop.

The image shows a white plate filled with a bed of light yellow farfalle pasta topped with several pieces of grilled chicken breast that have a golden brown, slightly charred look. The chicken is coated with a creamy sauce that has hints of herbs and small green bits. Bright green broccoli florets are scattered around the pasta and chicken, adding a fresh contrast. The textures vary from the soft pasta, slightly crispy chicken edges, to the tender broccoli. The whole dish sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Add the broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain pasta and broccoli and set aside.
Step 2: Season the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6–7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Lower the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 5: Stir in crushed red pepper flakes (if using), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Return the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything to coat well in the lemon butter sauce. Add the reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce as needed.
Step 7: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Remove from heat and mix in chopped parsley and chives.
Step 8: Serve warm with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs on top.

Tips & Variations

Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat level in the dish.
Adding pasta water gradually helps create a silky, well-emulsified sauce.
Try swapping broccoli for asparagus or spinach for a different veggie twist.
For an extra depth of flavor, roast the broccoli or vegetables before adding them to the pasta.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce and keep the chicken moist.

How to Serve

The image shows a white plate with three layers of food. The bottom layer is light yellow bowtie pasta with a slightly smooth texture, spread evenly across the plate. On top of the pasta, there are several pieces of grilled chicken breast, golden brown with visible grill marks and a slightly crispy surface. Small green broccoli florets are placed around and between the chicken pieces, adding a fresh touch with their vibrant green color. The dish looks warm and flavorful, with slight shadows showing texture and depth. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, this recipe works well with various pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells. Choose your favorite and adjust cooking times as needed.

Is cauliflower a good substitute for broccoli?

Absolutely! Cauliflower has a similar texture and will absorb the lemon butter sauce nicely. You can roast or sauté it before mixing it with the pasta and chicken.