Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli

Name: Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz bowtie pasta; 2 chicken breasts, diced; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Warm, buttery, and bright with lemon, this Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is a weeknight winner that feels special enough for guests. The tender diced chicken browns in a golden pool of butter and garlic, while the lemon zest and juice lift the sauce with fresh acidity. Bowtie pasta provides a pleasant chew and pockets of sauce, and the broccoli adds vibrant color and a tender-crisp contrast. The aroma is richly savory with a citrus edge, the texture balances creamy sauce with firm pasta and bites of chicken, and the finish is light and refreshing from the lemon. This recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights, casual dinners, or when you want a comforting pasta dish without a lot of fuss. If you enjoy lemon-forward chicken meals, you may also like this lemony chicken piccata guide for another take on bright, pan-sauced chicken.

Ingredients

12 oz bowtie pasta, for the pasta base and texture.
2 chicken breasts, diced, for lean, savory protein; cut into even pieces for consistent cooking.
2 cups broccoli florets, for color, nutrition, and a tender-crisp bite.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, for the rich, golden sauce and cooking fat.
1 lemon, zested and juiced, for bright, fresh acidity and aromatic zest.
4 cloves garlic, minced, for aromatic depth and savory flavor.
1 tsp paprika, for mild smokiness and color.
1 tsp salt, to season and enhance flavors.
1/2 tsp black pepper, for gentle heat and seasoning balance.
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for a fresh, herbaceous finish.

If you like a garlic-forward pasta, see this related garlic butter bowtie pasta to compare techniques.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside. Tip: Salt the pasta water so the noodles have seasoning from the inside out.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, letting its golden richness envelop your kitchen. Keep an eye on the butter so it does not brown too quickly.
Add the minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper; cook for 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden. Stir constantly to avoid burning the garlic.
Toss in the diced chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Cook in a single layer for the best browning, stirring occasionally.
Stir in the broccoli and let it cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until tender and vibrant. If you prefer softer broccoli, cover the skillet briefly and steam for a minute or two.
Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and add the zest; mix well to infuse the dish with zesty flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Gently toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with chicken and broccoli, ensuring every bowtie is coated in that delightful buttery sauce. If the sauce seems tight, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm. For a similar cowboy butter approach, check this cowboy butter chicken pasta reference for inspiration.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 680 per serving

Tips, Storage & Variations

Tips:
- Cut chicken into uniform pieces so everything finishes at the same time.
- Reserve a little pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Use fresh lemon zest for the brightest flavor; add zest just before serving for maximum aroma.
Storage:
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to revive the sauce.
Freezing:
- This dish freezes acceptably if you omit the parsley and lemon zest before freezing. Cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat slowly.
Flavor variations using existing ingredients only:
- For a more pronounced garlic flavor, increase the garlic to 6 cloves.
- For a brighter lemon punch, add an extra teaspoon of lemon zest before serving.
- To emphasize herb freshness, stir in the parsley just before tossing the pasta.

You may also find useful tips in this alternate garlic-butter version garlic butter chicken bowtie variation.

FAQ

Q: Can I use a different pasta shape?
A: Yes, any short pasta will work; just follow package cooking times.

Q: Is unsalted butter necessary?
A: Unsalted butter lets you control salt levels, but salted butter can be used; reduce added salt if using it.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
A: Chicken is done when no pink remains and the internal temperature reaches 165 F.

Q: Can I steam the broccoli separately?
A: Yes, steaming separately ensures it stays bright green and tender without overcooking the chicken.

Conclusion

This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is an easy, satisfying dish that balances rich butter, bright lemon, and hearty pasta for a comforting meal any night of the week. If you want a different take or inspiration for plating and variations, see the original Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli on Umami and a classic Lemon Chicken with Broccoli and Bow Ties from Ina Garten for ideas. Give this recipe a try, share how it turned out, and enjoy a cozy, flavorful meal with family or friends.