Cowboy butter lemon bowtie chicken and broccoli pasta garnished with parsley and lemon zest

Comfort food meets bright, zesty flavors in this Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken & Broccoli recipe. If you love quick dinners packed with bold taste and fresh ingredients, this 30-minute pasta is made just for you. The combination of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a tangy cowboy butter sauce over bowtie pasta makes for a meal that feels both cozy and exciting.

Cowboy butter lemon bowtie chicken and broccoli pasta garnished with parsley and lemon zest this Recipe
Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken & Broccoli Recipe 3 Discover a quick and delicious 30-minute Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie chicken and broccoli pasta recipe perfect for busy weeknights.

Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is designed to fit your busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Plus, the cowboy butter lemon bowtie sauce adds a delightful twist that’s sure to become a new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Combines creamy, savory cowboy butter with fresh lemon zest for bright flavor.
  • Includes lean chicken and nutritious broccoli for a balanced meal.
  • Uses simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients you likely already have.
  • Comforting pasta dish that’s both filling and light.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start to make this flavorful pasta dish come together quickly and easily.

  • 8 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Calories: Approximately 450 per serving

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

  1. Cook the bowtie pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente, about 10 minutes. Add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoned with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper, and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
  3. Reduce heat to medium, add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until butter melts and garlic is fragrant but not browned.
  4. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the chicken and cowboy butter sauce. Toss gently to combine, then stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2 minutes until everything is heated through and well coated.
  5. Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top, and adjust seasoning with extra salt or lemon juice if needed. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious 30-minute meal!

Tips for the Best Results

  • Don’t overcook the broccoli; adding it the last few minutes of pasta cooking keeps it crisp and vibrant green.
  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor notes in the cowboy butter sauce.
  • Cut chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and a tender texture.
  • Reserve a little pasta water before draining to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
  • Feel free to swap bowtie pasta for penne or rotini if preferred.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors develop nicely but the pasta may absorb some sauce, so reheat gently.

To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce, stirring until heated through. Avoid microwaving for best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and offer a juicier texture. Just adjust cooking time slightly if needed.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe has a mild heat from the chili powder and optional cayenne pepper. You can omit the cayenne for a milder dish or add more for extra kick.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the bowtie pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta variety, and check that all ingredients used are gluten-free.

What is cowboy butter?

Cowboy butter is a flavorful compound butter made with garlic, herbs, spices, and lemon, adding rich, savory depth to dishes like this pasta.

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