If comfort food and fresh, zesty flavors had a perfect middle ground, this would be it. This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is the kind of meal that feels cozy and satisfying—yet bright enough to keep things light. Juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta are tossed in a rich, buttery lemon sauce that clings to every bite.
Best of all? It comes together quickly, uses simple ingredients, and won’t leave your kitchen in chaos.
✨ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ⏱ Weeknight-friendly — ready in about 40 minutes
- 🍋 Bright & buttery flavor combo
- 🥦 Balanced with protein, carbs, and veggies
- 🍝 One-pan magic for easy cleanup
- 👨👩👧👦 Family-approved and customizable
🛒 Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt & black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Cowboy Butter Lemon Sauce
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Juice & zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- Salt & pepper
For the Pasta & Veggies
- 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook Pasta & Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook pasta until al dente.
Add broccoli during the last 3 minutes of cooking.
Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
2. Cook the Chicken
Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook chicken until golden and cooked through (about 6–7 minutes).
Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce
Lower heat to medium and melt butter in the same skillet.
Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
Stir in:
- Red pepper flakes
- Dijon mustard
- Lemon juice & zest
Add parsley, chives, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine Everything
Return chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet.
Toss gently to coat in sauce.
Add reserved pasta water gradually until the sauce becomes silky.
Stir in Parmesan until melted and creamy.
5. Serve
Serve warm with:
- Extra Parmesan
- Fresh herbs
- Optional squeeze of lemon
🍽️ Serving Ideas
- 🥗 Pair with a light green salad
- 🥖 Serve with garlic bread
- 🍋 Add extra lemon wedges for brightness
💡 Tips for Best Results
- Let chicken sear undisturbed for better flavor
- Add pasta water slowly—it’s key for a silky sauce
- Adjust spice level with red pepper flakes
- Don’t overcook broccoli—keep it slightly crisp
🔄 Variations
- Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs
- Add veggies like spinach, asparagus, or peas
- Use different pasta (penne, rotini, shells)
🧊 Storage
- Store in fridge up to 3 days
- Reheat with a splash of water or broth
❓ FAQs
Can I use another pasta?
Yes! Any short pasta works well.
Is it spicy?
Only slightly—adjust or skip red pepper flakes.
Can I make it ahead?
Best fresh, but reheats well with added moisture.
🍝 Final Thoughts
This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is the perfect mix of comfort and freshness—rich, zesty, and satisfying without being heavy. It’s one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again when you want something easy but impressive.