This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli dish is a perfect blend of savory and tangy flavors. Made with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and delectable bowtie pasta, it’s ideal for a weeknight dinner or any meal that requires a touch of comfort. The buttery lemon sauce elevates the dish while a hint of Cajun seasoning adds a delightful twist. If you’re looking to balance meals in a delicious way, this recipe will surely please picky eaters and adventurous food lovers alike. You may also find Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken useful.
Why cook this at home
This recipe is not only delicious but also comes together quickly, making it a great option for busy weeknights. It’s budget-friendly and utilizes fresh ingredients, ensuring a wholesome meal that’s full of flavor. You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your family’s taste preferences, which makes it an ideal choice for any dinner. You may also find Lemon Bowtie Chicken With Broccoli useful.
Preparing Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
- Start by boiling pasta and broccoli together.
- Season and cook the chicken until fully done.
- Create a creamy, buttery sauce with garlic and lemon.
- Combine everything in the skillet for easy mixing.
- Serve immediately with fresh herbs for added flair.
Gather these items
- 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
How to prepare it
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- Add broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Next, add the red pepper flakes (if using), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper.
- Return the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything to coat evenly, adding the reserved pasta water as needed.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it is melted and creamy.
What to serve it with
This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken can be paired beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving a fresh garden salad or some roasted vegetables to complement the richness of the dish. For a lighter option, you could serve it alongside some garlic bread or a warm baguette to soak up the extra sauce.
How to store and freeze
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the dish is cooled down before placing it in an airtight container. If you want to freeze it, place individual portions in freezer-safe bags and they should last for up to 2 months. When reheating, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption. Always remember the 2-hour room temperature rule for food safety.
Tips for best results
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavors, especially in the herbs and vegetables.
- Adjust the Cajun seasoning to control the heat; use less for a milder flavor.
- For creamier results, consider adding a splash of cream or milk along with the Parmesan.
- Always reserve the pasta water, as it helps to bind the sauce.
Creative twists
Feel free to mix things up with this recipe. You can add cooked shrimp or beef for a protein variation, or even substitute the broccoli with spinach or asparagus. Experimenting with different pasta shapes, like penne or fusilli, can also provide a new twist each time you prepare it. If you’re a fan of the lemon flavor, consider adding lemon slices during cooking for extra zest.
Your questions answered
Can I use another type of pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta works well, you can substitute it with any pasta you prefer, like penne or fusilli.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To lower the spice level, reduce or omit the Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes. Adding more ingredients like cheese can balance any heat.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
If fresh herbs are unavailable, dried herbs can be used, although the flavor may not be as vibrant. Use about one-third of the amount if you opt for dried herbs.
How long does this recipe take to prepare?
This recipe takes about 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and satisfying meal.
Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them when ready to serve. Just combine them and warm them through when you’re ready.
This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is a fantastic go-to recipe that promises joy with every bite. The flavor combinations make it simple to create something remarkable. Dive into your kitchen and give it a try; it’s sure to impress your family!
PrintCowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
A perfect blend of savory and tangy flavors with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and bowtie pasta in a buttery lemon sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
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
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- Add broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Next, add the red pepper flakes (if using), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper.
- Return the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything to coat evenly, adding the reserved pasta water as needed.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it is melted and creamy.
Notes
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Can be frozen in portions for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
