Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken & Broccoli Recipe

When you’re craving a comforting yet bright pasta dish, this lemon bowtie chicken with cowboy butter sauce and broccoli is exactly what you need. This easy 30-minute recipe combines tender chicken, al dente bowtie pasta, and crisp broccoli in a rich, buttery sauce with lemon and garlic that livens every bite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this meal comes together fast without sacrificing flavor.

this Recipe

You’ll love how the zesty lemon and savory cowboy butter sauce bring a fresh twist to a classic chicken pasta dinner. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients and balanced textures. Let me walk you through everything you need to know to make this vibrant, satisfying dish your new go-to weeknight favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy nights.
• Combines zesty lemon with creamy cowboy butter sauce for bold flavor.
• Uses bowtie pasta for a fun, kid-friendly shape that holds sauce well.
• Includes broccoli for a healthy veggie boost.
• One-pan cooking after boiling pasta keeps cleanup easy.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your lemon bowtie chicken with cowboy butter and broccoli.

• 8 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (or your favorite spice blend)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 520 per serving

How to Make Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken & Broccoli – Easy 30-Minute Pasta Recipe

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to blanch them. Drain and set aside.
2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant, then pour in chicken broth and lemon juice. Stir and let simmer for 2-3 minutes to create the cowboy butter sauce.
4. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet, tossing everything to coat evenly in the sauce. Stir in Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and cayenne if using. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through and sauce thickens slightly.
5. Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving warm. Enjoy your bright, buttery lemon bowtie chicken with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad if desired.

Tips for the Best Results

• Don’t overcook the broccoli; blanch it just until bright green and tender-crisp for the best texture.
• If you like extra sauce, add a splash more chicken broth or a tablespoon of cream for richness.
• Use fresh lemon juice for a vibrant citrus flavor; bottled juice won’t have the same brightness.
• Let the chicken rest a minute off heat after cooking to keep it juicy and tender.
• Feel free to swap bowtie pasta for penne or rotini if you prefer.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken and pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or spinach. Just add them toward the end of cooking to maintain their texture and color.

Is this recipe spicy?

The level of spice is mild and customizable. The Cajun seasoning adds some warmth, and the cayenne pepper is optional if you want a little extra kick. You can adjust seasoning to your taste.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the bowtie pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta variety. The sauce and other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

What can I serve with cowboy butter lemon bowtie chicken?

This dish pairs nicely with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A light white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the flavors well.