Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken & Broccoli Recipe

When you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, this cowboy butter lemon bowtie chicken & broccoli recipe is a winner. Ready in just 30 minutes, it combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta all tossed in a rich, zesty cowboy butter sauce. You’ll love how this easy recipe elevates simple ingredients into a satisfying meal.

this Recipe

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this cowboy butter pasta lets you enjoy a delicious, hearty dish without spending hours in the kitchen. The lemon adds a bright touch that pairs beautifully with the savory butter sauce and fresh broccoli, creating a balanced, wholesome meal you can feel good about.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 30 minutes for quick weeknight dinners.
• Combines protein, veggies, and pasta in one flavorful dish.
• The cowboy butter sauce is rich, creamy, and zesty from fresh lemon.
• Bowtie pasta holds the sauce perfectly for every bite.
• Easy to customize with your favorite herbs or extra veggies.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your cowboy butter lemon bowtie chicken & broccoli come to life.

• 8 ounces bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories (approx.): 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 the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. During the last 3 minutes of pasta cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water to blanch them. Drain pasta and broccoli, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. While pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the chicken pieces with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Lower heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and butter to the same skillet. Once butter is melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir and let the sauce simmer for 2 minutes, reducing slightly. Stir in crushed red pepper flakes if using.
5. Add the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli back into the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce as needed.
6. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.
7. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish.

Tips for the Best Results

• Cut chicken into evenly sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking.
• Don’t overcook the broccoli; blanching keeps it crisp and vibrant.
• Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency for a creamy texture.
• Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor impact.
• For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream in the sauce.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover cowboy butter pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken; stir in a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating to restore creaminess.

For longer storage, freeze the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While bowtie pasta works great for holding the sauce, penne, rotini, or shells are also excellent choices. Just cook according to package instructions.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe includes optional crushed red pepper flakes for a mild kick. You can omit them for a milder dish or add more if you prefer extra heat.

Can I substitute broccoli with other vegetables?

Absolutely! Asparagus, green beans, or spinach can be great alternatives. Add them at similar cooking stages to keep them fresh and tender.

How do I make the cowboy butter sauce dairy-free?

Swap the butter for a dairy-free margarine or olive oil, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor. The sauce will still be rich and delicious.