Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli

Taste the Zesty Joy of Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli

Ever had a meal that makes your taste buds dance while keeping dinner prep easy? This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is your new kitchen superstar! With its creamy butter sauce, vibrant lemon flavor, and hearty chicken, you won’t just taste the love; you’ll devour it. Get ready to whip up a dish that promises full bellies and happy hearts with minimal cleanup!

Why Make This Recipe

Why should you add this gem to your recipe arsenal? Here are a few reasons:

• One-Pan Wonder: Who wants to spend all evening washing dishes? Not you! This is a one-pan marvel, making cleanup a piece of cake. 🍰
• Family Favorite: This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for little ones and picky eaters alike. You’ll hear “yum” instead of “eww.”
• Quick and Easy: Whip it up in about 30 minutes. Perfect for those busy nights when takeout just won’t cut it!

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

• 8 oz bowtie pasta
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, and season with salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss to combine.
5. Add the grilled chicken slices and fresh parsley, mixing gently.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley and lemon if desired.

How to Make Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli (Overview)

Let’s break it down step by step. Start by cooking that bowtie pasta! When it’s just about done, toss in the broccoli for a quick steam. While that’s happening, melt the butter and let the garlic shine. Add a zing of lemon to brighten the dish right up! Toss it all together with the chicken, sprinkle some parsley, and you’re ready to wow your family. Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic — it adds layers of flavor that elevate the dish.

How to Serve Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli

Serving this dish is as delightful as eating it! Picture it: creamy, buttery goodness with vibrant green broccoli and tender chicken. Pair it with a crisp green salad for that extra crunch and color. A sprinkling of fresh parsley adds a pop of brightness, making your plate a true feast for the eyes. And the aroma? Unforgettable!

How to Store Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This dish keeps well in the fridge for about 3 days. Just store it in an airtight container. Want to freeze it? Go for it! It’ll last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat it on the stovetop with a splash of water to bring back the creaminess.

Tips to Make Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli

• Cook pasta al dente: This ensures it holds its texture and doesn’t become mushy in the sauce.
• Add more lemon zest if you like extra brightness.
• Try substituting chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein twist!
• Experiment with veggies: Spinach or bell peppers can add even more nutrients and color.
• Use fresh herbs like thyme or basil if you’re feeling fancy!

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Swap out the butter for olive oil to lighten it up, or use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a vegan spin. Add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or throw in sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist. The possibilities are endless!

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prep the chicken and pasta earlier in the day, then finish it up in the evening.

What can I use instead of bowtie pasta?
Penne, fusilli, or any other pasta shape will work just fine!

How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli

A delicious one-pan meal featuring bowtie pasta, grilled chicken, and broccoli in a creamy lemon butter sauce, ready in about 30 minutes.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 650

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 8 oz bowtie pasta
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 pieces chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 whole lemon, juiced and zested
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to preference.

Method

 

Cooking the Pasta and Broccoli

1. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions.
2. Add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.

Preparing the Sauce

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, and season with salt and pepper.

Combining Ingredients

1. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss to combine.
2. Add the grilled chicken slices and fresh parsley, mixing gently.

Serving

1. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley and lemon if desired.

Notes

Cook pasta al dente for best texture. Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu, and experiment with different vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.