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Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 98 reviews

This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is a flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender Cajun-seasoned chicken, al dente bowtie pasta, and crisp broccoli, all tossed in a rich, zesty lemon-butter sauce infused with garlic, Dijon mustard, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish combines savory, spicy, and tangy notes for a satisfying and comforting meal.

Ingredients

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Chicken and Seasoning

  • 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

Sauce

  • 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

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 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

  1. Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, approximately 10-12 minutes. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta and broccoli together. Set aside.
  2. Prepare and Cook Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: Using the same skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and softened, taking care not to burn it. Stir in crushed red pepper flakes (if using), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix in the fresh parsley and chives, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  4. Toss Pasta, Broccoli, and Chicken: Return the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken back to the skillet with the lemon butter sauce. Toss everything together to coat evenly. Add the reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce and make it creamy. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and combined.
  5. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice for bright flavor. Serve warm and enjoy promptly for best texture and taste.

Notes

  • For a spicier dish, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
  • If you want to make this gluten-free, substitute the bowtie pasta with a gluten-free variety.
  • Reserve some pasta water as it helps in creating a silky sauce that clings well to the pasta and chicken.
  • To save time, you can prep the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and assemble at mealtime.

Keywords: Cowboy Butter, Lemon Chicken, Bowtie Pasta, Broccoli, One Pan Dinner, Cajun Chicken, Easy Weeknight Meal

Find it online: https://familyfavplates.com/cowboy-butter-lemon-bowtie-chicken-with-broccoli-recipe/