Description

Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is a vibrant and flavorful one-pan meal combining Cajun-spiced chicken, tender bowtie pasta, and fresh broccoli tossed in a zesty lemon butter sauce enriched with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a hearty yet refreshing dinner that comes together quickly on the stovetop.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken

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

For the Cowboy Butter Lemon Sauce

6 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta & Veggies

12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
1/2 cup reserved pasta water
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

Instructions

Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and broccoli and set aside.
Season the Chicken: In a bowl, season the bite-sized chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are golden brown and cooked through, about 6–7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce: Lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add Flavorings: Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes (if using), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat evenly with the sauce. Add the reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce and enhance creaminess.
Finish with Cheese and Herbs: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and chives, tossing gently.
Serve: Serve warm with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs on top for garnish.

Notes

For a spicier dish, increase the crushed red pepper flakes.
Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
Reserve pasta water carefully to enhance sauce without over-thinning.
Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.
Fresh lemon zest and juice are key for vibrant flavor; avoid bottled lemon juice for best taste.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Cowboy butter chicken, lemon butter sauce, Cajun chicken pasta, bowtie pasta recipe, broccoli chicken pasta, one pan chicken pasta