Introduction

This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli combines tender chicken and crisp-tender broccoli with buttery, zesty sauce over perfectly cooked bowtie pasta. It’s a flavorful, hearty dish that’s quick enough for weeknights yet special enough for guests.

A white plate holds three layers: the bottom layer is light yellow bowtie pasta with a smooth texture, spread evenly across the plate. The middle layer has small bright green broccoli florets and tiny red bell pepper cubes scattered among the pasta. The top layer is creamy beige chicken pieces with dark grill marks, covered in a rich, melted cheese sauce with orange specks and garnished with chopped green parsley. The dish sits on a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tsp Cajun seasoning
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
6 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
1/2 cup reserved pasta water
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Add broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of pasta cooking. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining pasta and broccoli together. Set aside.
Step 2: In a bowl, toss chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and sear without moving for 2-3 minutes. Turn occasionally until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside, leaving browned bits in the pan.
Step 4: Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet and melt, scraping up browned bits. Stir in minced garlic and cook 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add crushed red pepper flakes if using.
Step 5: Whisk in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir in chopped parsley and chives, then season with salt and pepper.
Step 6: Return chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if sauce is too thick.
Step 7: Sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy. Toss everything to combine well.
Step 8: Serve immediately with additional Parmesan, parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Tips & Variations

Cut chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
Use both lemon juice and zest for balanced citrus flavor.
Reserve pasta water to create a silky sauce that clings well.
Try penne or rigatoni in place of bowtie pasta for a different texture.
Add vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for extra color and flavor.
Stir in a splash of cream or cream cheese for a richer sauce.
Increase red pepper flakes or add hot sauce for more heat.
Swap chicken for shrimp, salmon, or rotisserie chicken if preferred.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid freezing, as the butter-based sauce may separate.

How to Serve

A white plate filled with three layers: the bottom layer shows bow-tie pasta in light yellow with a smooth texture; the middle layer has small red cubes mixed with some brown bits, adding color contrast; the top layer consists of browned chicken pieces covered in melted yellow and white cheese sauce with a creamy texture, sprinkled with chopped green herbs, and surrounded by bright green broccoli florets. The dish is set on a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What is cowboy butter?

Cowboy butter is a compound butter made with butter, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, fresh herbs, and spices. In this recipe, it’s transformed into a flavorful sauce that combines richness with bright citrus and Cajun spices.

Can I use a different pasta for this recipe?

Yes, penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work well as alternatives to bowtie pasta and will hold the sauce nicely.