Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli

30 janvier 2026 par Chef Hanna Zest

Introduction

This quick Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli gets dinner on the table fast without sacrificing flavor. Bite-sized chicken cooks in minutes, then finishes with a buttery lemon sauce that clings to bowtie pasta and bright broccoli. Prep while the pasta boils to shave time, and you’ll have a complete meal in about 30 minutes. If you love fast chicken dinners, pair this idea with our crispy golden chicken nuggets with lemony piccata for another speedy lemony option.

Why This Recipe Works

The method is efficient: pasta and broccoli cook together, while seasoned chicken browns in a single skillet. The cowboy butter a simple mix of butter, garlic, Dijon, and lemon is ready in seconds and doubles as an easy sauce. Using bite-sized chicken ensures even, quick cooking so nothing sits under the heat. Reserved pasta water smooths the sauce without thinning flavor, creating a silky coating that sticks to farfalle. Minimal seasonings let the lemon and butter shine, so the dish tastes bright but still hearty. The same cowboy butter idea shines in our cowboy butter chicken linguine, showing how versatile the sauce is.

Flavor and Texture

Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika add a warm backbone while lemon brightens every bite. Garlic and butter create the classic savory base, and Dijon lends a subtle tang to balance richness. Farfalle holds sauce in its pinched centers so each forkful gets pasta, chicken, and broccoli together. Parmesan melts into the sauce, adding creaminess and a salty lift that ties the flavors. Crushed red pepper flakes are optional for a quick heat kick that disappears into the buttery sauce.

Ingredients

– 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
– 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
– 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

Step by Step Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Add broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6 to 7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
4. Lower heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, add garlic and cook until fragrant.
5. Stir in red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Return chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water as needed.
7. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
8. Serve warm with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs.

Quick Tips and Shortcuts

Trim and cube the chicken the night before to cut prep time. Use pre-minced garlic or garlic paste when you’re in a bigger rush. Frozen broccoli florets work fine add them straight to the boiling pasta and extend the time by a minute if needed. Measure the pasta water into a glass so you don’t over-pour; add a tablespoon at a time until the sauce reaches the right silkiness. Grate Parmesan fresh from a wedge for better melt and flavor compared to pre-grated cheese.

Storage and Meal Prep

Cool leftovers within two hours and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce, or microwave on medium power with a cover to keep moisture. This dish freezes okay for up to one month, but texture is best when eaten within a few days. For meal prep, pack pasta and chicken together with a wedge of lemon and a small container of extra Parmesan.

Short Closing Note

This meal proves a restaurant-worthy sauce can be weeknight-simple. It’s fast, flavorful, and flexible enough for busy schedules.

Conclusion

For a classic lemon chicken and broccoli inspiration that influenced this version, see Ina Garten’s Lemon Chicken with Broccoli & Bow Ties recipe for more technique and ideas.

FAQ

Can this be made in under 30 minutes?

Yes, the recipe is designed to be quick and efficient.

Does it work for meal prep?

Most versions store well for one to three days.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Yes, simple swaps can be made for convenience or dietary needs.