As I stood in my kitchen, the crisp aroma of lemon mingling with buttery indulgence filled the air, instantly transporting me to a sun-drenched picnic with friends. Today, I’m excited to share my Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli—a dish that beautifully balances creamy comfort with a zesty kick. It’s an ideal family dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes, proving that homemade meals can be both quick and nourishing. Plus, its customizable nature allows you to toss in your favorite vegetables, making it even more heartwarming. Ready to rustle up some comfort in your kitchen? Let’s dive in!
Why is this recipe a family favorite?
Quick Preparation: This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken is perfect for busy nights, taking less than 30 minutes from prep to plate.
Creamy Delight: The buttery sauce, combined with bright lemon, creates a comforting, creamy embrace that your family will adore.
Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to mix and match vegetables like spinach or zucchini, ensuring everyone gets their favorites!
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The balance of Cajun spices and fresh herbs makes this dish irresistible, so it’s bound to impress even the pickiest eaters.
Nutritional Boost: With tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, this meal is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients.
For more delicious chicken ideas, check out my recipes for Chicken with Buttered Noodles or Lemon Butter Chicken!
Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Ingredients
• Get ready for a flavorful adventure!
For the Chicken
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – 1 lb cut into bite-sized pieces for tenderness and richness.
Substitution: Can use turkey or shrimp for a different protein option.
For the Pasta
- Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle) – 12 oz for a fun shape that holds the sauce beautifully.
Substitution: Gluten-free pasta works well if needed.
For the Veggies
- Broccoli Florets – 2 cups for nutrition and bright color in your dish.
Substitution: Spinach or zucchini can add even more flavor.
For the Sauce
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Cajun Seasoning – 1 tsp for a zesty kick that elevates the dish.
Substitution: Italian seasoning or a mix of paprika and salt can also be used. -
Garlic Powder – ½ tsp to enhance the depth of flavor.
Fresh garlic provides a delightful twist in place of this. -
Smoked Paprika – ½ tsp for that tempting hint of smokiness.
Regular paprika offers a milder taste if preferred. -
Salt and Black Pepper – To taste for overall flavor enhancement.
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Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – ½ tsp optional for those who love added heat.
Adjust according to your spice preference. -
Dijon Mustard – 1 tsp for a tangy flavor that brightens the sauce.
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Lemon Juice and Zest – Juice and zest of 1 lemon for that fresh pop of acidity.
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Fresh Parsley and Chives – 2 tbsp parsley and 1 tbsp chives, chopped for a lovely garnish and flavor.
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Olive Oil – 2 tbsp used for cooking the chicken to golden perfection.
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Unsalted Butter – 6 tbsp for the luxurious creamy sauce you crave.
Add more for an even richer result. -
Parmesan Cheese – ½ cup grated, plus extra for topping, to enhance the creaminess and flavor profile of this Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken
Step 1: Boil the Pasta and Broccoli
In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add 12 ounces of bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add 2 cups of broccoli florets to the pot. Once done, reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, drain the pasta and broccoli, and set aside.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, take 1 pound of bite-sized chicken pieces and place them in a mixing bowl. Season the chicken with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika, and salt and black pepper to taste. Mix the chicken well to ensure every piece is coated with the bold flavors.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 4: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Allow the butter to melt completely, then add minced garlic (if using fresh) and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, scraping up any browned bits from the chicken. This creates a rich base for your creamy sauce in the Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
Stir in ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (if using), 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and the juice and zest of 1 lemon into the skillet. Mix well to combine all the ingredients, followed by adding 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley and 1 tablespoon of chopped chives. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, letting the flavors bloom in the buttery sauce.
Step 6: Combine All Ingredients
Return the cooked bowtie pasta, broccoli, and the sautéed chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together gently, ensuring every noodle and vegetable are coated in the creamy sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
Step 7: Stir in the Parmesan
Finally, remove the skillet from the heat and fold in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and well combined. If you like it extra cheesy, feel free to add more cheese! Serve the Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken warm, garnished with additional Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon for an extra burst of flavor.
Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken and make it uniquely yours!
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Shrimp Option: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist that cooks up in no time. The fresh flavors complement the lemon beautifully, offering a zesty delight!
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Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free bowtie pasta to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. Your family will love this comforting dish just as much!
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Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers or zucchini alongside broccoli for extra color and nutrition. Each bite becomes a vibrant medley, keeping everyone’s palate excited!
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Creamy Spinach: Swap broccoli for spinach for a luscious green alternative that’s equally delicious. The creamy sauce envelops the tender greens, creating a comforting, savory dish.
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Hearty Sausage: Replace chicken with smoked sausage for an added punch of flavor and heartiness. The smoky taste pairs perfectly with the buttery lemon sauce, making it oh-so-satisfying.
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Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or dill instead of parsley and chives for a fragrant twist. Each herb brings its own personality, refreshing the dish anew!
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Spice it Up: Increase the Cajun seasoning or add cayenne pepper for a fiery kick. If your family enjoys heat, this twist will surely awaken their taste buds!
For more delicious chicken recipes, explore my Cowboy Butter Chicken Wings or discover the delight of my Greek Lemon Chicken. Dive into these variations and let your culinary creativity shine!
Make Ahead Options
These Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken meal prep options will save you precious time on busy weeknights! You can season the chicken and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Additionally, the bowtie pasta can be cooked and tossed with a dash of olive oil to prevent sticking, allowing you to refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the chicken in a skillet, sauté it until golden, and incorporate the prepped pasta and broccoli with your buttery sauce mixture. This way, you’ll achieve that same delicious comfort food experience with minimal effort, just as your family loves!
How to Store and Freeze Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps the creamy sauce from drying out while ensuring fresh flavors.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Make sure to label it with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to restore creaminess. Avoid the microwave, which can cause uneven heating.
Preparation Tips: You can also make the sauce ahead of time and store it separately. Just combine it with the chicken and pasta when you’re ready to serve!
Expert Tips for Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken
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Perfect Pasta: Make sure to cook the bowtie pasta until just al dente for the best texture; overcooking can lead to mushiness in this creamy chicken dish.
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Golden Chicken: Avoid overcrowding the skillet when cooking the chicken. This helps it brown nicely and remain juicy.
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Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until it reaches your desired creamy consistency for the Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken.
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Freshness Matters: Always use fresh lemon juice and zest for maximum flavor. Bottled can lack the vibrant taste that brightens this dish.
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Personalize It: Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to enhance both nutrition and flavor, making it even more delicious.
What to Serve with Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken?
There’s nothing quite like the allure of a family meal that beautifully marries comfort with zest, leaving your taste buds wanting more.
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Garlic Bread: A crusty, warm garlic bread serves as the perfect companion to scoop up that creamy sauce, making every bite more enjoyable.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons make for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the butter lemon chicken.
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Roasted Asparagus: The earthy flavors and tender crunch of roasted asparagus bring a vibrant, green touch that complements the dish perfectly.
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Parmesan Risotto: Creamy risotto infused with Parmesan echoes the cheesiness of the chicken dish, creating a comforting, luxurious experience.
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Lemon Sorbet: A light and refreshing lemon sorbet cleanses the palate after each hearty bite, adding a delightful citrus twist to end the meal.
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Sweet Tea or Lemonade: These refreshing drinks pair beautifully with the zesty notes of the chicken, balancing the flavors in every sip.
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Balsamic Glazed Carrots: Their sweetness intertwined with the tangy balsamic sauce adds a lovely touch to the savory elements of the main dish.
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Chocolate Mousse: End with a rich chocolate mousse that offers a creamy, indulgent contrast to the bright flavors of your dinner.
Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tenderness and richness. They cook quickly and absorb flavors beautifully. However, you can also substitute with turkey or shrimp if you prefer.
How do I store leftovers of Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This helps retain the creamy sauce’s freshness. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to restore the creaminess.
Can I freeze the Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 1 month! Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container; don’t forget to label it with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove to maintain a creamy texture.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
Very good question! If your sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water (about a tablespoon at a time) while stirring until you reach your desired consistency. This water is starchy, so it will help to loosen the sauce without sacrificing flavor.
Are there any allergy considerations for Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken?
Yes! Keep in mind that this recipe contains dairy from the butter and Parmesan cheese. For a dairy-free option, use plant-based butter and nutritional yeast for a cheese-like flavor. Always double-check for any other specific allergies related to the ingredients used.
How can I customize the vegetables in this dish?
You can definitely mix and match! In addition to broccoli, consider adding other colorful veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. This not only enhances nutrition but also adds wonderful flavors and textures, making the dish even more delightful for everyone!
Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken: Creamy Comfort in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add 12 ounces of bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add 2 cups of broccoli florets. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, season 1 pound of chicken pieces with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika, and salt and black pepper to taste.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken in a single layer and cook for 6-7 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, add 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Melt and add minced garlic (if using fresh), sauté for 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (if using), 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and lemon juice and zest. Add chopped parsley and chives, season to taste.
- Return cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken to the skillet. Toss gently to coat in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if too thick.
- Remove from heat, fold in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until creamy. Serve warm, garnished with more Parmesan and lemon juice for flavor.
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