why make this recipe
Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Bliss is a delightful dish that combines flavorful butter sauce and fresh ingredients. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. The lemon adds a bright, zesty finish that makes it stand out. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy pasta, chicken, and veggies all in one bowl!
how to make Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Bliss
Ingredients:
- 2 cups bowtie pasta
- 1 pound chicken breast, cubed
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 unit lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Directions:
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat, add the unsalted butter, and melt it.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the cubed chicken, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Toss in broccoli florets and cook for another 4-5 minutes.
- Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and add lemon zest; stir until flavors meld.
- Add the drained bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the sauce.
- Adjust seasoning if needed, and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
how to serve Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Bliss
This dish is best served warm. You can place it in bowls or on plates and sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a nice presentation. It pairs well with a side salad or some crusty bread.
how to store Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Bliss
To store leftovers, let the dish cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove before serving again.
tips to make Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Bliss
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta; al dente gives the best texture.
- Feel free to add more vegetables, like bell peppers or carrots, for added nutrition and color.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest according to your taste preference. If you love lemon, add a bit more!
variation
You can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. Changing the type of pasta is also an option; try penne or fusilli if you prefer.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A1: Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the dish.
Q2: Is this recipe healthy?
A2: This recipe is balanced with protein, carbs, and vegetables. You can make it healthier by using less butter or substituting it for olive oil.
Q3: Can I prepare this dish in advance?
A3: Yes, you can cook the ingredients and store them separately. Reheat before serving to keep everything fresh!

Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Bliss
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A delightful dish with flavorful butter sauce, pasta, chicken, and broccoli, enhanced by zesty lemon.
Ingredients
- 2 cups bowtie pasta
- 1 pound chicken breast, cubed
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 unit lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat, add the unsalted butter, and melt it.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the cubed chicken, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Toss in broccoli florets and cook for another 4-5 minutes.
- Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and add lemon zest; stir until flavors meld.
- Add the drained bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the sauce.
- Adjust seasoning if needed, and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Best served warm and pairs well with side salad or crusty bread. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: bowtie pasta, chicken, butter sauce, lemon, broccoli, cozy dinner, quick recipes
