Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
A vibrant, one-pan dish featuring tender chicken, zesty lemon, and bright broccoli tossed in a creamy butter sauce, perfect for family dinners or weeknight treats.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta Cook until al dente. Save some pasta water for the sauce.
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter Use unsalted butter to control saltiness.
Seasoning/Spice Blend
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning For warmth and depth.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder Enhances flavor.
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika Adds a nice smokiness.
Aromatics & Vegetables
- 4 cloves minced garlic Enriches the butter sauce.
- 2 cups broccoli florets Steam before adding for even cooking.
Liquids/Dairy
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard For brightness and acidity.
- 1 each lemon (juice and zest) Zest first for best flavor.
Optional Finishing Ingredients
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley Add just before serving for vibrancy.
- 1 tbsp fresh chives Add just before serving for vibrancy.
Instructions
Cooking Pasta
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
Preparing Chicken
- Season the diced chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
Making the Sauce
- Add the minced garlic to the chicken and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Deglaze the pan with a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Lower the heat, then add butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Stir until melted and combined.
Combining Ingredients
- Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything in the sauce, adding more pasta water for desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and fold in the chopped parsley and chives.
Notes
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for enhanced flavor. Customize with favorite vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.