Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken & Broccoli Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner, this cowboy butter lemon bowtie chicken & broccoli recipe is just the ticket. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you get a creamy, zesty pasta dish packed with fresh veggies and tender chicken. The cowboy butter sauce brings a buttery, garlicky kick that perfectly complements the bright lemon notes and hearty broccoli.

this Recipe

Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this cowboy butter pasta is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and absolutely satisfying. Let’s dive in and get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• The cowboy butter sauce is rich, savory, and bright with lemon.
• Balanced with protein, pasta, and fresh broccoli for a complete meal.
• Easy stovetop method – no complicated steps or equipment needed.
• Serves 4 people, great for leftovers or meal prep.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your cowboy butter lemon bowtie chicken & broccoli pasta.

• 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

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. Add bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. While pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces seasoned with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, and oregano. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and broccoli florets. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Remove broccoli and set aside with chicken.
4. Reduce heat to medium and melt butter in the skillet. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in cayenne pepper (if using), lemon zest, and lemon juice to create the cowboy butter sauce. Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
5. Return chicken and broccoli to the skillet, then add cooked pasta. Toss everything together gently, coating pasta evenly with the sauce. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
6. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to warm through and let the sauce thicken slightly. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Tips for the Best Results

• Don’t overcook your pasta; al dente texture is key to avoid mushiness.
• Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor in the cowboy butter sauce.
• Cut chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking throughout.
• For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half before adding Parmesan.
• Add broccoli towards the end of cooking to keep it crisp and vibrant.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover cowboy butter pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place portions in freezer-safe containers and consume within 2 months for best flavor.

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen the sauce and prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While bowtie pasta works perfectly here, you can substitute penne, rotini, or even fettuccine depending on your preference.

Is cowboy butter sauce spicy?

It has a mild kick thanks to smoked paprika and optional cayenne pepper. You can adjust the heat level by omitting or reducing the cayenne to suit your taste.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Fresh broccoli is preferred for texture, but you can use frozen. Just thaw and drain it well before sautéing to avoid extra moisture in the dish.

What can I serve alongside this pasta?

A light side salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this rich and flavorful cowboy butter lemon bowtie chicken & broccoli pasta.