Go Back
–+ servings
Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli served on a plate

Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Bliss

A seasonal, comforting skillet meal featuring bowtie pasta, tender chicken, and broccoli, all brought together with bright lemon and rich butter, perfect for weeknights and special gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 4 servings
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Chicken

  • 2 cups bowtie pasta Cook according to package instructions.
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts.

Vegetables

  • 2 cups broccoli florets Fresh or frozen broccoli works.

Sauce

  • ½ cup unsalted butter Melted in the skillet.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds flavor to the dish.
  • 1 unit lemon, juiced and zested Adjust quantity for more lemon flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika For color and flavor.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste Adjust according to preference.
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) Enhances presentation.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Gather ingredients and tools so everything is within reach.
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the bowtie pasta.
  • Pat the cubed chicken dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  • Mince the garlic and zest then juice the lemon. Keep zest and juice separate.
  • If using fresh broccoli, cut into bite-size florets.

Cooking

  • Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions for al dente. Reserve 1/2 to 3/4 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
  • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter. Add the seasoned chicken and sear until golden and just cooked through, about 4–6 minutes.
  • Remove the chicken and lower heat to medium. Add the remaining butter and garlic to the skillet; sauté until fragrant.
  • Pour in the lemon juice and add lemon zest, stirring to deglaze the pan.
  • Add the broccoli florets and a splash of reserved pasta water; cover and cook until bright green and tender-crisp.
  • Return the cooked chicken and drained bowtie pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the lemon butter sauce.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired. Garnish with parsley.

Notes

For best flavor, use fresh lemon juice. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of water or butter to refresh the sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 18gSodium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 1g
Keyword Bowtie Pasta, Broccoli, Chicken, Comfort Food, Lemon Butter
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!