Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Recipe

Let me tell you, the Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites for dinner nights when I want something quick but incredibly flavorful. The mix of smoky Cajun spices, bright lemon zest, and rich buttery sauce just hits all the right notes. Plus, it’s a one-pan kind of meal that’s comforting but still fresh and light, which I know you’ll appreciate on busy evenings.

What makes this recipe truly special is how the bowtie pasta soaks up that luscious lemon butter sauce, while the chicken stays juicy and the broccoli adds just the right crunch. Whether you’re cooking for your family or have friends coming over, this dish feels like a warm hug on a plate. Trust me, once you try this Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Recipe, it’ll be on your regular rotation, too!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients balance beautifully to create a meal that’s both vibrant and comforting. The secret is in the seasoning, fresh herbs, and a touch of lemon brightness that lifts the whole dish. Plus, the components are easy to find, so you won’t waste time hunting anything down at the store.

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cutting into bite-sized pieces helps them cook quickly and evenly.
• Bowtie (farfalle) pasta: Its shape holds on to the sauce and adds a fun texture contrast.
• Broccoli florets: Adding them right at the end of pasta cooking keeps them crisp and fresh.
• Cajun seasoning: This is the bold spice mix that brings that classic cowboy flavor.
• Garlic powder: For that subtle garlic aroma without overpowering.
• Smoked paprika: Adds smoky depth without needing a grill.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all flavors.
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): A little kick if you like things spicy.
• Dijon mustard: Surprising but important—it gives the sauce a tangy complexity.
• Lemon juice and zest: The secret weapon for freshness and brightness.
• Fresh parsley and chives: Herbs that bring a burst of color and freshness.
• Olive oil: Used to sear the chicken, locking in moisture.
• Unsalted butter: Creates the silky, rich base for that cowboy butter sauce.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Smooths out the sauce and adds savory depth.
• Reserved pasta water: To help loosen the sauce if it gets too thick—classic pasta trick!

Variations

I love how flexible this recipe is—you can easily tweak it depending on what you have on hand or your dietary needs. Personally, I switch out the broccoli with asparagus or green beans for a seasonal twist, but you do you! Experiment and find what combos make the dish feel like your own.

• Protein swap: Using shrimp instead of chicken gives a delicate seafood version that’s equally delicious.
• Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with extra mushrooms or tofu, and double the broccoli for a meat-free meal.
• Spice level: Adjust Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to tone down or boost the heat—I’ve made this family-friendly before without the pepper flakes.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free bowtie pasta, and be sure to check your Cajun seasoning for any hidden gluten ingredients.
• Extra creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or some cream cheese to the sauce for a richer texture—this is my go-to for cozy winter nights.

How to Make Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Recipe

Step 1: Cook pasta and broccoli perfectly

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and drop in your bowtie pasta. Here’s a little tip: add the broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of pasta cooking so they stay crisp but tender, not mushy. Make sure to reserve about half a cup of that starchy pasta water before draining everything—this will help your sauce come together beautifully later on.

Step 2: Season and cook your chicken

While the pasta cooks, toss those chicken bites in Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. I like tossing with my hands to make sure every piece is coated. Then, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes. You want a nice golden sear on them so they develop flavor but remain juicy inside. Once done, set the chicken aside on a plate.

Step 3: Build the cowboy butter sauce

Using the same skillet (no need to dirty another pan!), melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and let it sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant—this will fill your kitchen with the most comforting aroma. Now stir in crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, and zest. Add chopped parsley and chives, then season with salt and pepper. This sauce tastes amazing on its own, so be sure to lick your spoon.

Step 4: Toss pasta, broccoli, and chicken in the sauce

Return your cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken to the skillet. Toss everything gently to coat with that buttery lemon sauce. If it looks a bit thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until it reaches your preferred consistency. Finally, stir in grated Parmesan cheese for lovely creaminess. This step really pulls the whole dish together so take your time and toss carefully to prevent any sticking.

How to Serve Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping my plates with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a handful of fresh parsley for color and freshness. Sometimes, a quick squeeze of lemon on top before serving makes all the difference—it brightens every bite. If you’re feeling fancy, a few chopped chives or even thin lemon slices add a nice touch.

Side Dishes

This recipe stands well on its own because it’s a full meal, but if you want to add a side, I like serving a light mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce. Roasted sweet potatoes or a simple coleslaw also complement the flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like plating the Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Recipe in shallow bowls and finishing with edible flowers or microgreens for a restaurant-style look. Another idea I tried was serving the pasta inside hollowed-out lemon halves—everyone loved the pop of citrus and that charming presentation. It makes the meal feel extra special without a lot of fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and this dish keeps really well for up to 3 days. When you reheat, just add a splash of water or broth to bring back that saucy texture. The chicken stays tender, and the broccoli keeps a nice bite if you don’t overcook it during reheating.

Freezing

Freezing works too, but I recommend skipping the broccoli if you plan to freeze because it can get a bit soggy. Freeze the chicken and pasta with the sauce separately, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently. The flavors hold up surprisingly well, making it great for batch cooking.

Reheating

When reheating, I prefer warming it on the stovetop over low heat while stirring occasionally. This keeps the sauce smooth and prevents the chicken from drying out. Microwaving works in a pinch, but add a drizzle of water or butter first to stop drying and stir midway through heating.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s full of flavor, easy to make, and a little different from the usual weeknight dinner, Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Recipe is a total winner. It’s a dish I’ve come back to time and again, especially when I want that buttery, zesty goodness balanced by the fresh crunch of broccoli and satisfying pasta. I can’t wait for you to try it—you’ll be impressed at how simple ingredients come together to create a meal that feels like a treat every time.

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