As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sizzling Cajun-seasoned chicken filled the air, creating a symphony of scents that instantly transported me to a cozy Southern eatery. This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is not just a recipe; it’s a delightful escape that promises to transform your weeknight dinners into something spectacular. With a zesty, garlicky cowboy butter sauce draped over tender bowtie pasta and vibrant broccoli, this dish is incredibly quick to prepare, taking just 40 minutes from start to finish. Not only is it a family-friendly meal that pleases even the pickiest of eaters, but it also offers the versatility to customize with your favorite ingredients. Are you ready to bring a little excitement back to your dinner table? Let’s dive in!
Why is This Recipe a Must-Try?
Simplicity at Its Finest: You can whip up this meal in just 40 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The zesty cowboy butter sauce infused with Cajun spices enhances every bite, making it a taste-bud teaser!
Crowd-Pleasing: With creamy pasta and tender chicken, it’s perfect for the whole family—even picky eaters will love it!
Versatile Options: You can easily substitute or add ingredients like shrimp or veggies for a personalized twist—the possibilities are endless!
A Wholesome Delight: With lean protein and vibrant broccoli, this dish is a balanced meal that everyone can feel good about.
For even more delicious ideas, check out my Broccoli Cheddar Chicken or if you feel like digging into something sweet, try the Lemon Cheesecake.
Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – A lean protein that ensures a hearty dish; feel free to swap with chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
• Cajun Seasoning – This adds delightful warmth and spice; if you’re feeling creative, mix your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and cayenne!
For the Sauce
• Olive Oil – Used for cooking the chicken; you can also use vegetable oil or butter if preferred.
• Unsalted Butter – The heart of the sauce that adds richness; reducing to 4 tablespoons offers a lighter option.
• Garlic, Minced – This key flavor component delivers a robust aroma and taste.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Offers an optional heat; omit for a milder experience.
• Dijon Mustard – Essential for balancing the sauce with its tanginess, ensuring that signature cowboy butter flavor.
• Lemon (Juice and Zest) – Adds vital brightness; substitutes won’t achieve the same flavor profile.
For the Pasta and Veggies
• Bowtie (Farfalle) Pasta – The main carbohydrate element; swap with other pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni as you wish.
• Broccoli Florets – Brings nutrients and a pop of color; asparagus or green beans can be a great alternative.
For Finishing Touches
• Fresh Parsley & Chives – Perfect for garnish and freshness; you can also experiment with other herbs like basil or dill.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds creaminess and depth; fresh cheese is always the best choice.
• Reserved Pasta Water – This enhances the sauce consistency and helps it cling beautifully to the pasta.
Now that you have the Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli ingredients, you’re one step closer to creating a meal that the entire family will adore!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
Step 1: Cook Pasta and Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, stir in the broccoli florets. Just before draining, reserve about a cup of the pasta water for later. Drain the pasta and broccoli, then set aside.
Step 2: Prepare Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, season the boneless skinless chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning on both sides. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Sauté the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest.
Step 3: Make Sauce
In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce the heat to medium and add unsalted butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant but not burnt. Stir in crushed red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and lemon zest, mixing well to combine—all while the Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli aroma fills your kitchen.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add the drained bowtie pasta and broccoli back into the skillet, along with the cooked chicken, sliced into bite-sized pieces. Gently toss everything together in the cowboy butter sauce, adding reserved pasta water gradually to reach desired creaminess. Finally, stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into a silky coating over the pasta.
Step 5: Serve
Dish up generous portions of Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli onto plates. Top with additional Parmesan cheese, freshly chopped parsley, and chives for color and flavor. For an extra zest, squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the top just before serving to enhance the vibrant flavor profile of this delightful dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli are the ultimate meal prep solution for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken with Cajun seasoning up to 24 hours in advance to enhance the flavor, while the sauce can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cook the bowtie pasta and broccoli right before serving for optimal freshness. To maintain quality, refrigerate the chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers. When ready to enjoy, reheat the sauce gently over low heat and add the pasta and broccoli, tossing everything together until warm. This way, you’ll have a delightful, restaurant-quality meal ready in no time!
What to Serve with Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
Looking to create a complete meal that delights the senses and warms the heart? Here are some fantastic side dishes to complement your zesty chicken pasta.
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Garlic Bread: Rich, buttery, and infused with garlic, this classic side adds a crispy contrast that perfectly balances the creamy pasta.
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Simple Green Salad: A fresh mix of greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette brings brightness and crunch, enhancing the overall meal experience.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies, tossed in olive oil and herbs, provide a lovely roasted flavor that complements the dish’s zest while adding nutritious elements.
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Lemon Sorbet: This refreshing dessert offers a light and tangy finish to your meal, cleansing the palate after the rich, buttery main course.
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Coleslaw: Creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw introduces a crunchy, tangy element, making it an excellent companion for the flavorful chicken and pasta.
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White Wine: A chilled, crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio will enhance the meal’s citrus notes, adding a sophisticated touch to your dinner.
Each pairing works harmoniously, ensuring your dinner feels like a delightful culinary adventure, right at home!
Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this dish to suit your taste and dietary needs.
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Pasta Swap: Use penne or fettuccine instead of bowtie for a fun change in shape. Each pasta type will embrace the sauce differently!
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Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms or zucchini for more color and nutrients. You might be surprised how easily the extra veggies can become a family favorite.
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Creamy Twist: Stir in heavy cream or cream cheese for a richer sauce experience. It will transform the dish into a delightful creamy indulgence, making every bite feel luxurious.
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Protein Upgrade: Substitute shrimp or salmon for chicken to introduce a new flavor profile. The cowboy butter sauce pairs beautifully with seafood, offering a unique take on the classic dish.
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Herb Infusion: Swap fresh parsley and chives for basil or dill to experiment with different aromatic flavors. The essence of these herbs can elevate your dish with freshness!
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Spice It Up: Add jalapeños or switch to a hot Cajun spice mix for a bolder, spicier version. It’s a great way to kick up the heat on those chillier nights.
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Lemon Lovers: Double the lemon juice and zest for an extra zesty punch that wakes up the flavor profile of the entire dish. This bright twist will leave your taste buds singing!
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Cheese Variety: Use feta or Goat cheese instead of parmesan to introduce a tangy twist. The distinct flavors will create a delightful contrast to the buttery sauce!
For a delightful contrast in flavors, try pairing it with a fresh salad or some crispy garlic bread. And if you’re in the mood for something sweet later, have a look at my luscious Italian Lemon Mascarpone Layer Cake to complete your meal!
Expert Tips for Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
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Uniform Chicken Pieces: Cut the chicken into even sizes for consistent cooking, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender—no dry bits here!
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Pasta Water Magic: Always reserve pasta water! It not only helps achieve the silky consistency of the sauce but also helps it cling perfectly to the bowtie pasta.
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Perfectly Cooked Broccoli: Avoid the common mistake of overcooking broccoli. It should be tender-crisp to keep its bright color and nutrients while adding texture to the dish.
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Garlic Care: Sauté the garlic until fragrant, but watch carefully! Letting it burn can turn the flavor bitter, ruining your Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli.
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Customize Seasoning: Feel free to adjust Cajun seasoning to your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with a small amount and add more according to your preference.
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Garnish for Freshness: Don’t skip the fresh herbs! A sprinkle of chopped parsley and chives not only adds color but also elevates the dish’s overall aroma and flavor.
How to Store and Freeze Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to ensure freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the meal in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain the creamy consistency of the cowboy butter sauce.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the dish out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety. If serving buffet-style, keep it warm until it’s time to eat!
Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for boneless skinless chicken breasts that are plump and have a bright pink color. You want to avoid any with dark spots all over, as this can indicate spoilage. For a juicier option, you could swap these out for chicken thighs, which also add a rich flavor profile to the dish.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very simple! You can store any leftovers of your Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to maintain its freshness.
Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, you can! For freezing, allow the dish to cool down, then transfer it to an airtight container, ensuring there’s minimal air exposure. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
How can I reheat the dish without losing its texture?
Great question! To reheat your Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli, place it in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to help restore that creamy consistency of the sauce as you gently warm it up. This way, you won’t lose any of the delicious flavors or textures.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, check the labels for Cajun seasoning, as it could contain allergens like garlic or paprika. Furthermore, if you’re serving this dish to pets, keep in mind that ingredients like onions and garlic can be harmful to dogs and cats, so it’s best to avoid sharing any leftovers with them.
What should I do if I notice the sauce is too thick?
In case you find your sauce too thick after combining everything, stir in some reserved pasta water a little at a time. This will help you achieve that silky texture you’re aiming for! Just remember, the more the merrier when it comes to adding moisture without compromising flavor.
Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. In the last 3 minutes, stir in the broccoli florets. Reserve about a cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and broccoli.
- Season the chicken with Cajun seasoning on both sides. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and let it rest.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add unsalted butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Stir in crushed red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and lemon zest, mixing well.
- Add the drained bowtie pasta and broccoli back into the skillet, along with the cooked chicken. Toss together in the cowboy butter sauce, adding reserved pasta water gradually to reach desired creaminess. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Serve on plates, topped with additional Parmesan cheese, parsley, and chives. Squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the top before serving.
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