🧡 Introduction
If you’re craving a comforting yet fresh and flavorful dinner, this Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is exactly what you need.
This dish combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and crisp broccoli all tossed in a rich, buttery lemon sauce infused with garlic and herbs. It’s creamy without feeling heavy, brightened with citrus, and comes together quickly—making it ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed dinners at home.
Simple ingredients, bold flavor, and minimal cleanup—this recipe truly checks every box.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ⏱️ Quick & easy – ready in about 40 minutes
- 🍋 Fresh and zesty – lemon balances the richness
- 🍝 Comfort food with a twist – creamy but not heavy
- 🥦 Balanced meal – protein, carbs, and veggies
- 🍳 One-pan friendly – less mess, more convenience
🛒 Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Cowboy Butter Lemon Sauce
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pasta & Vegetables
- 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
👨🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Cook Pasta & Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook pasta until al dente.
Add broccoli during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking.
Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
Step 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 for 6–7 minutes until golden and fully cooked.
Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Reduce heat to medium.
Add butter and let it melt, scraping up any browned bits.
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Stir in red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and zest.
Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return chicken to the skillet.
Add pasta and broccoli.
Toss everything together until coated.
Add reserved pasta water gradually if needed.
Step 5: Finish
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Serve warm, topped with extra cheese and fresh herbs.
💡 Tips for Success
- 🍗 Let chicken sear without moving for better flavor
- 💧 Add pasta water slowly—it helps create a silky sauce
- 🌶️ Adjust spice by adding or skipping chili flakes
- 🥦 Add broccoli later if you prefer it firmer
🔄 Variations
- 🍝 Use penne, rotini, or shells instead of bowtie pasta
- 🍗 Swap chicken breast for chicken thighs
- 🥬 Add spinach, asparagus, or peas
- 🧄 Add extra garlic for stronger flavor
🧊 Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: up to 3 days
- Reheat: gently with a splash of water or broth
❓ FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, store and reheat gently before serving.
Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely—spinach, zucchini, or asparagus work great.
Is it spicy?
Mild by default—adjust red pepper flakes to taste.
🧡 Conclusion
This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is the perfect combination of comfort and freshness. It’s creamy, zesty, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make—all in one pan.