Go Back
undefined

Creamy Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli

A delightful, creamy dish featuring bowtie pasta, chicken, and broccoli in a zesty sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Chicken breasts Turkey or tofu can be used as alternatives.
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning Adjust quantity to taste.
For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Bowtie (farfalle) pasta Gluten-free pasta can be used.
  • 0.5 cups Reserved pasta water Use regular water if needed.
For the Vegetables
  • 2 cups Broccoli florets Can substitute with bell peppers or zucchini.
For the Sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder Fresh garlic can be used for more flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika Sweet paprika is a suitable alternative.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 0.25 teaspoon Crushed red pepper flakes Omit for a milder dish.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Yellow mustard can be used instead.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon juice Lime juice can be used as an alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon zest
For the Finishing Touches
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley Basil or cilantro can also be used.
  • 2 tablespoons Chives
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil Vegetable oil can substitute.
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter Dairy-free butter for a non-dairy version.
  • 0.5 cups Parmesan cheese Nutritional yeast can be used for a vegan option.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes. Toss in the broccoli for the last 3 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.
  2. Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Coat evenly and set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove and let rest.
  4. In the same skillet, lower heat and add butter. Once melted, add garlic powder and crushed red pepper flakes, sauté for about a minute. Stir in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, and chives. Adjust seasoning as necessary.
  5. Return pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the chicken. Toss gently, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time for desired sauce consistency.
  6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Serve warm, garnished with extra cheese and parsley.

Notes

Prep vegetables and season chicken ahead of time for quicker cooking. Store leftovers in airtight containers.