As I glanced at the clock, the day had slipped away, leaving me just 40 minutes to whip up dinner. That’s when my go-to recipe for Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli danced into my thoughts—a zesty weeknight delight that not only satisfies but also brings the whole family to the table. This dish is a breath of fresh air, marrying tender Cajun-seasoned chicken with the charmingly whimsical bowtie pasta and vibrant broccoli, all cloaked in a buttery, lemony sauce that beckons for seconds. Best of all, it’s customized to your liking and ready so quickly, you’ll have more time to unwind after a bustling day. Ready to turn your busy evenings into something special? Let’s dive into this culinary adventure!
Why is this recipe a weeknight hero?
Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, this recipe transforms hectic evenings into delightful dining experiences.
Zesty Flavor: The Cowboy Butter sauce, infused with lemon and garlic, brings a refreshing twist that elevates the entire dish.
Family-Friendly: Everyone, from kids to adults, will love the tender chicken, cheerful bowtie pasta, and bright broccoli.
Customizable: Feel free to swap out veggies or pasta shapes to suit your taste. Want to spice things up? Add more red pepper flakes!
Gourmet Experience: Despite being a simple weeknight meal, the flavors and textures rival those found in a restaurant, ensuring a satisfying meal every time.
Pair this dish alongside a simple green salad or some garlic bread for an effortless yet impressive dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor!
Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts – A lean protein that serves as a satisfying base for this flavorful dish.
- Cajun Seasoning – Adds a smoky, slightly spicy kick; substitute with homemade spices if desired.
- Olive Oil – Perfect for searing the chicken, ensuring a crispy exterior and rich flavor.
For the Sauce
- Unsalted Butter – Essential for the decadent cowboy butter sauce; feel free to reduce for a lighter twist.
- Garlic (fresh) – Provides that aromatic flavor which is the heart of the sauce.
- Dijon Mustard – Balances the richness of the sauce with its sharp tang.
- Lemon Juice and Zest – Brightens the entire flavor profile; use both for the best effect.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Optional for a little heat; adjust to match your spicy preferences.
- Fresh Parsley and Chives – Adds a pop of freshness and vibrant color to your dish.
For the Pasta and Veggies
- Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle) – The whimsical shape holds sauce beautifully; can be swapped for other pasta types too.
- Broccoli Florets – A nutrient-rich addition that enhances both color and texture; substitute with your favorite veggies.
For Final Touches
- Parmesan Cheese – Provides an extra creamy finish; fresh grated on top elevates the dish.
- Reserved Pasta Water – Vital for adjusting sauce consistency, it helps everything bind together beautifully.
This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli comes together with these simple yet delightful ingredients, making it a fabulous choice for your quick weeknight meals. Enjoy!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
Step 1: Cook Pasta & Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add bowtie pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10 minutes. In the last 3 minutes of pasta cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. Reserve ½ cup of the starchy pasta water, drain the pasta and broccoli together, and set them aside in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Cook Chicken
While the pasta and broccoli cook, season the chicken breasts liberally with Cajun seasoning for flavor. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 6-7 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway through. Ensure the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F, then transfer it to a plate to rest.
Step 3: Make Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in crushed red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and zest. Allow the mixture to simmer briefly, then add chopped parsley and chives, and season with salt and pepper to taste for the Cowboy Butter sauce.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the cooked bowtie pasta, broccoli, and chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together over low heat until well coated. To achieve your desired sauce consistency, gradually add reserved pasta water, mixing until the sauce clings beautifully to the pasta and chicken. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until creamy.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer the Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli to serving plates, garnishing with additional Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Serve warm, and watch your family delight in this zesty weeknight meal that’s both comforting and satisfying!
Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Variations
Feel free to make this dish your own with delightful tweaks that can elevate your dining experience!
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Pasta Shape: Swap bowtie pasta for penne or rigatoni for a texture twist. Each shape captures the sauce uniquely, providing a different mouthfeel with every bite.
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Heat Level: Crank up the spice! Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to give your dish a fiery kick, making each forkful an exciting adventure.
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Creamy Twist: For a rich and luscious sauce, incorporate a splash of heavy cream or some cream cheese. This will result in a velvety finish that clings beautifully to the pasta and chicken.
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Protein Options: Swap chicken for shrimp, salmon, or even chickpeas for a plant-based option. Each protein brings a new flavor dimension, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
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Veggie Variations: Feel free to substitute broccoli with asparagus or zucchini to add seasonal freshness. You could also toss in some cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and sweetness, creating an irresistible medley.
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Herb Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or oregano instead of parsley and chives. They’ll add an aromatic flavor profile, giving your Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken a Mediterranean flair.
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Lemon Zing: Love citrus? Double down on the lemon juice and zest used in the sauce. This will provide an even brighter, more refreshing taste that pairs wonderfully with the rich cowboy butter.
Explore these variations to make this recipe uniquely yours! And for a complementary dish, why not serve it alongside a side of Lemon Dill Potato Salad with Asparagus for an extra burst of flavor and freshness? You won’t regret it!
Make Ahead Options
These Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prep the chicken and season it up to 24 hours in advance—simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. The pasta can also be pre-cooked and stored for up to 3 days; just toss it lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, cook the prepped chicken in the skillet, prepare the sauce, and then combine with the already cooked pasta and broccoli until warmed through. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
Imagine sitting down to a vibrant dinner table filled with complementary flavors and textures that enhance your meal.
- Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery goodness of garlic bread adds a delightful crunch and is perfect for sopping up the zesty sauce.
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh mix of greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken and pasta.
- Roasted Asparagus: The tender, slightly charred spears of asparagus deliver a nutty flavor that beautifully balances the creamy components of the dish.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Tossed with olive oil and roasted to perfection, these crispy bites offer a satisfying crunch and heartiness to your meal.
- Lemon Sorbet: End on a refreshing note with a light lemon sorbet that echoes the bright notes of lemon in the Cowboy Butter sauce.
- Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay’s crisp fruitiness complements the dish, enhancing the creamy sauce without overpowering it.
Each of these delightful options creates a feast for the senses, making your weeknight meal something truly special.
Expert Tips for Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
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Even Chicken Pieces: Ensure your chicken breasts are cut into uniform sizes. This guarantees even cooking and that every bite is perfectly tender.
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Save Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water before draining! This starchy liquid is key for achieving the ideal sauce consistency that clings to your Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli.
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Broccoli Timing: Add the broccoli in the last few minutes of pasta cooking. This keeps it vibrant and crisp-tender, adding both color and nutrition without overcooking.
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Garlic Caution: Keep a close eye on the garlic while sautéing; burning it can turn your sauce bitter. It’s best to cook it just until fragrant.
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Herbs at the End: Stir in parsley and chives at the end to maintain their fresh flavors and bright appearance, enhancing the overall presentation of your dish.
Storage Tips for Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the dish is cooled completely before sealing to retain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to restore creaminess and prevent drying out.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli out for more than 2 hours to maintain food safety.
Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken breasts?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken breasts, look for those that are firm and plump with a pinkish hue. Avoid any that have a gray tint or dark spots. Fresh chicken should also have no unpleasant odor. Ideally, choose free-range or organic varieties for better flavor and quality.
How do I store leftovers of the Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the dish cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain its flavor and texture. You can also reheat gently in a skillet to avoid drying it out!
Can I freeze Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli?
Very! To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then portion it into plastic freezer bags or airtight containers. It will last up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to regain that lovely creaminess.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out too thick, no worries! Simply add a bit of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring until you reach your desired consistency. The starchy water helps the sauce cling to the pasta and chicken beautifully!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Certainly! This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli can be made gluten-free by substituting the bowtie pasta with a gluten-free alternative. For dairy-free options, use vegan butter and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. Always check for any specific allergies, especially with spices and condiments.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before serving. When ready to eat, simply combine with freshly cooked pasta and broccoli, reheating gently to meld the flavors together. Enjoy this deliciously quick and customizable meal!
Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Made Easy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add bowtie pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10 minutes. In the last 3 minutes of pasta cooking, add the broccoli florets. Reserve ½ cup of the starchy pasta water, drain the pasta and broccoli together, and set aside.
- Season the chicken breasts liberally with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway through, until reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
- In the same skillet, melt unsalted butter, then add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in crushed red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and zest. Simmer briefly, then add chopped parsley and chives; season with salt and pepper.
- Return the cooked bowtie pasta, broccoli, and chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss together over low heat, gradually adding reserved pasta water to achieve desired sauce consistency. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until creamy.
- Transfer to serving plates, garnishing with additional Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve warm.
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