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Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli

A delicious and easy dish that combines tender chicken, pasta, and broccoli in a creamy, buttery sauce with zesty lemon flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust according to spice preference)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 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
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking chicken)
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter (for the sauce)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (to adjust sauce consistency)

Instructions

  1. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. In the last two minutes of the cooking time, add the broccoli florets. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, lower the heat and add butter. Once melted, mix in the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, and optional red pepper flakes. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
  4. Return chicken to the skillet, add cooked pasta and broccoli, tossing everything together. Stir in Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and chives.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken, pasta, broccoli, lemon, creamy, weeknight dinner, family-friendly