After a hectic day, there’s nothing quite like a cozy, home-cooked meal to bring comfort back into my evening. Enter Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli—a dish that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also transforms the ordinary into something extraordinary! With its zesty, garlicky cowboy butter sauce enveloping succulent Cajun-seasoned chicken, tender bowtie pasta, and vibrant broccoli, this recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that feels like a warm hug.
A few months ago, I was searching for a quick weeknight dinner that could please the whole family, and this gem emerged from a flurry of pantry exploration. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying meal that’s both customizable and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re looking to spice it up with a kick of heat or keep it mellow, this cowboy-inspired dish has got you covered. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure that brings a taste of the West right to your kitchen!
Why is Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken a must-try?
Quick Meal Solution: In just 40 minutes, you can prepare a delightful family dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Customizable to Your Taste: The versatility of ingredients means you can easily swap chicken for seafood or add your favorite veggies.
Comfort in Every Bite: This dish is packed with comforting flavors that evoke a sense of home and warmth.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Easy Cleanup: With everything cooked in one skillet, you’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal!
Don’t miss out on how easy it can be to savor homemade cooking; explore variations to create your perfect feast!
Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Main protein source; chicken thighs can be more flavorful if preferred.
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning – Adds a smoky kick; swap with homemade Cajun seasoning or Italian seasoning for a milder profile.
• Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
For the Butter Sauce
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter – The heart of the cowboy butter sauce that brings richness.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the sauce with aromatic flavor for a zesty touch.
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – Introduces a touch of heat; leave it out if you prefer no spice.
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard – Adds a tangy depth perfect for the sauce.
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon – Brightens up the dish, balancing the richness of the butter.
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped – For a pop of color and fresh aroma.
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped – Enhances the overall flavor and freshness.
For the Pasta & Veggies
• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta – The main carbohydrate; can substitute with penne or fettuccine if desired.
• 2 cups broccoli florets – Boosts the nutritional value and adds vibrant color to your meal.
To Finish
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water – A secret to a silky sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping) – Provides creaminess and delicious umami flavor.
This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is loaded with flavor and customizable for every palate—your possibility of substitutions is endless!
How to Make Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken
-
Cook Pasta & Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and add the bowtie pasta. Cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets. Before draining, be sure to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water to help create a silky sauce.
-
Cook Chicken: While the pasta and broccoli are cooking, season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes until golden brown on both sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
-
Make the Cowboy Butter Lemon Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes (if using), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped parsley, and chives. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
-
Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with the drained pasta and broccoli. Toss gently until everything is well-coated in the cowboy butter sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add in some reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency. Finish by stirring in the grated Parmesan cheese.
-
Serve: Plate the Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken, and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve it warm and enjoy every bite!
Optional: For an extra crunchy touch, sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs on top before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken
-
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even more over time, making it a delightful lunch!
-
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended due to the butter sauce, which may separate and lose its creamy texture upon thawing.
-
Reheating: To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until heated through.
-
Make-Ahead: If you plan to make this Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken ahead of time, prepare the chicken and sauce separately, then combine just before serving for the best freshness.
Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Variations
Feel free to make this dish your own and explore different flavors that will excite your palate!
-
Pasta Swap: Change the bowtie pasta to penne, rigatoni, or even fettuccine for a different texture. These shapes hold sauces beautifully, giving new life to the dish.
-
Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms, asparagus, or zucchini for extra nutrition and color. Toss them in with the pasta during its final minutes, and watch your plate pop with vibrant hues!
-
Creamy Twist: For those cream lovers, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese to make the sauce luxuriously creamy. It transforms the dish into a hearty delight that’s even more comforting.
-
Spice It Up: Crank up the heat with more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Perfect for those who crave a little excitement in their meal!
-
Protein Change-Up: Swap chicken for shrimp or use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. Shrimp cooks up beautifully and adds a deliciously sweet flavor.
-
Vegetarian Delight: Omit the chicken completely and add in chickpeas or more vegetables. With chickpeas for protein, you’ll have a wholesome vegetarian meal that’s bursting with flavor.
-
Zesty Lime Finish: Replace lemon with lime juice and zest for a fresh, tropical twist that brightens the cowboy butter sauce.
-
Herb Variants: Experiment with herbs by adding fresh basil or cilantro instead of parsley and chives for a unique flavor profile that’s refreshing and vibrant!
Make Ahead Options
This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a hearty dinner with minimal effort. You can marinate the chicken with Cajun seasoning and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours to infuse flavors. Additionally, you can cook the pasta and broccoli ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken in a skillet, add the cooked pasta and broccoli, and finish by combining everything with the freshly made cowboy butter sauce and Parmesan cheese. This approach ensures that your meal retains its deliciousness while saving you valuable cooking time during busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli?
To elevate your dining experience, consider these delightful pairings that complement the flavors of your dish beautifully.
-
Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the zesty cowboy butter sauce, this warm and toasty option adds a satisfying crunch to your meal.
-
Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette brings freshness and balances the rich flavors of the chicken.
-
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini offer sweetness and depth, making your plate more vibrant and nutritious.
-
Creamy Coleslaw: The tangy crunch of coleslaw adds a delightful contrast to the rich pasta dish, enhancing your meal’s overall texture and flavor.
-
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully, enhancing the citrus notes of the lemon in the cowboy butter sauce.
-
Lemon Sorbet: For a refreshing dessert, finish your meal with a light lemon sorbet; its citrus zing cleanses the palate after the hearty chicken and pasta.
Enjoy exploring these ideas to create a memorable meal around this Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken that’s sure to impress family and friends!
Expert Tips for Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken
-
Uniform Chicken Cuts: Ensure the chicken pieces are cut evenly for consistent cooking, avoiding any undercooked bits.
-
Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t forget to save that half cup of pasta water—it’s essential for achieving a silky sauce that clings to your bowtie pasta!
-
Perfect Broccoli Texture: Add the broccoli during the last few minutes of pasta cooking to maintain its vibrant color and crisp texture.
-
Gentle Tossing: When combining the chicken, pasta, and sauce, stir gently to keep the bowtie pasta intact and avoid mushiness.
-
Taste and Adjust: Always taste your sauce before serving; the flavors may need a touch more salt or lemon juice for brightness in the Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken!
Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe broccoli?
Absolutely! When selecting broccoli, look for vibrant green florets and firm stems without dark spots. The florets should be tightly packed, and the overall appearance should be fresh. If you notice any yellowing or wilting, it’s best to skip that head.
How should I store leftovers?
After enjoying your Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish gets even more delicious as the flavors meld overnight, making it a perfect next-day lunch!
Can I freeze this dish?
Unfortunately, freezing isn’t recommended for this recipe due to the butter sauce, which may separate and become grainy once thawed. For best results, enjoy the dish fresh or as leftovers stored in the fridge.
What if my sauce is too thick?
No worries at all! If your cowboy butter lemon sauce turns out too thick, simply add some of the reserved pasta water, little by little, while stirring until you reach your desired consistency. This will help thin it out while keeping it rich and creamy.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, indeed! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be mindful of the Cajun seasoning, which may contain various spices. The butter and cheese can also be a concern for those with dairy allergies. For a family-friendly adjustment, you could create a dairy-free version using olive oil and leave out the cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
The more the merrier! If bowtie pasta isn’t available, feel free to swap it out for penne, fettuccine, or even whole wheat options. Each brings its own charm to the dish while maintaining that comforting essence.
Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the bowtie pasta. Cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. In the last 3 minutes, add the broccoli florets. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
- Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat, add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Stir in red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, and chives. Season to taste.
- Return chicken to the skillet with drained pasta and broccoli. Toss gently until coated in sauce, adding reserved pasta water for desired consistency. Stir in Parmesan cheese.
- Plate and garnish with extra Parmesan, parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice.