Name: Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups bowtie pasta; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is a bright, comforting pasta dish that brings together tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and bowtie pasta in a rich, buttery lemon sauce. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights yet flavorful enough to feel special, making it a dependable go-to when you want something satisfying without a lot of effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between richness and freshness. The buttery sauce is lifted by lemon juice and zest, keeping the dish light while still comforting. It’s a complete meal in one pan, packed with protein, vegetables, and pasta, and it comes together in about half an hour. Cleanup is simple, and the flavors appeal to both adults and kids, making it ideal for family dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Bowtie pasta – 2 cups
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – 1 pound, cut into bite-sized pieces
Broccoli florets – 2 cups
Unsalted butter – 1/2 cup
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon
Lemon zest – 1 teaspoon
Smoked paprika – 1 teaspoon
Cayenne pepper – 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
Salt – 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
Black pepper – 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste
Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese – 1/4 cup (optional)

Directions

Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the same pot. Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned.

Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to form the cowboy butter sauce.

Add the chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly golden.

Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated in the sauce and heated through.

Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

For a seafood twist, replace the chicken with peeled and deveined shrimp and cook just until pink.
For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
For a creamier sauce, stir in 1/4 cup of cooking cream at the end.
For extra citrus flavor, add an additional teaspoon of lemon zest before serving.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a small splash of water or butter to loosen the sauce.
You can also reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.
Freezing is not recommended, as the butter sauce may separate and the pasta texture can change.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance and reheat gently before serving, though it tastes best fresh.

What other pasta shapes work well in this recipe?

Penne, fusilli, or rotini work well because they hold the sauce nicely.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, just add it directly to the pasta water without thawing and cook until tender.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should be opaque throughout and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has mild heat if you use cayenne pepper, but you can omit it for a completely mild dish.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely, vegetables like mushrooms, snap peas, or spinach are great additions.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

You can skip the cheese or use another hard cheese that melts well.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and use a larger pot and skillet.

Will lemon juice from a bottle work?

Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

Is this suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it portions well and makes a satisfying lunch or dinner for the next couple of days.

Conclusion

Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is the kind of recipe that earns a permanent place in your meal rotation. It’s fast, flavorful, and comforting without being heavy, and it uses simple ingredients to create something truly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just for yourself, this dish delivers bright flavor and hearty comfort in every bite.