Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken & Broccoli is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of cowboy butter with the freshness of lemon and bright green broccoli. This recipe is not only incredibly easy to prepare, but it also creates a comforting, satisfying meal that the whole family will love. The juicy chicken, tender pasta, and vibrant vegetables make this dish a colorful addition to any dinner table.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 490
Protein: 30 grams
Carbohydrates: 40 grams
Fat: 25 grams
Fiber: 4 grams
Sugar: 2 grams
Sodium: 600 mg

Why Make This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken & Broccoli

Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken & Broccoli is a perfect go-to meal for busy weeknights. The combination of savory butter, zesty lemon, and tender chicken creates a delicious flavor profile that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder that simplifies the cleanup process, making it easier for you to enjoy your evening. This dish is not only nutritious, with added broccoli for a dose of vitamins, but it also pleases the palate with its colorful presentation and comforting aromas.

How to Make Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken & Broccoli

Making this flavorful dish is simple and straightforward. Follow the easy steps outlined below to create a quick and delicious meal that’s packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

8 oz bowtie pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
2 chicken breasts, diced
1/2 cup cowboy butter
1 lemon, juiced
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for garnish
Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Add the broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Mixing

In a large skillet, melt the cowboy butter over medium heat.
Step 3: Cooking

Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Step 4: Finishing

Stir in the lemon juice. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined. Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

How to Serve Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken & Broccoli

Serve this delightful dish hot, straight from the skillet, for a cozy family meal. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete dining experience. It’s also perfect for meal prepping—make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch throughout the week!

How to Store Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken & Broccoli

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to help keep it moist.

Expert Tips for Perfect Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken & Broccoli

Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure the pasta is cooked al dente for the best texture. This will help it hold up better when mixed with the other ingredients.
Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to toss in additional vegetables like peas or bell peppers for extra nutrients and color.
Customize the Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein choice that works for your diet.
Zest the Lemon: For an even more intense lemon flavor, add some lemon zest along with the juice.

Delicious Variations

Spicy Cowboy Butter: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter while melting for a hint of spice.
Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end for a creamy version of this dish.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs such as thyme or basil for an aromatic twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just add it directly to the boiling pasta for the last few minutes of cooking, and it will cook through perfectly.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute bowtie pasta with penne, fusilli, or any pasta shape you have on hand.
What is cowboy butter?
Cowboy butter is a compound butter generally made with spices, garlic, and herbs, giving it a unique flavor that’s perfect for enhancing dishes.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
How can I make this dish more lemony?
If you love lemon, add more juice or zest from the lemon to really amplify the citrus flavor.

Conclusion

Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken & Broccoli is a vibrant and hearty dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its easy preparation and comforting flavors, it makes weeknight meals both enjoyable and hassle-free. So grab your ingredients, gather the family, and get ready to savor this delicious, buttery flavor explosion. Happy cooking!

Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken & Broccoli

Author: lydia
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: None

Print Recipe

Description

A delightful dish blending savory cowboy butter, zesty lemon, and fresh broccoli for a comforting family meal.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz bowtie pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
2 chicken breasts, diced
1/2 cup cowboy butter
1 lemon, juiced
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for garnish
Fresh parsley for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Add the broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
Melt the cowboy butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Stir in the lemon juice. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined. Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

Notes

For an extra lemony flavor, add lemon zest along with the juice.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 490
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 80mg