Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is a delightfully vibrant dish that brings together the rich flavors of the South and the freshness of lemon. Imagine tender, juicy chicken pieces coated in a buttery, zesty sauce, paired with colorful bowtie pasta and bright green broccoli. This dish isn’t just a feast for the palate; it’s also a feast for the eyes, making it perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or special occasions when you want to impress your guests.
As you savor each bite, you’ll appreciate the harmony of flavors—from the creamy butter sauce to the tang of lemon and a hint of Cajun spice. This article will cover everything you need to know, from ingredients to step-by-step instructions, helpful serving tips, and even ways to customize the dish to suit your taste. Let’s dive into making this tasty recipe a part of your culinary adventures!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: Wholesome chicken, vibrant veggies, and zesty lemon come together for a nourishing meal.
- Ease of Preparation: Simple steps make it approachable for cooks of all skill levels.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein and vitamins, this dish is good for you and tastes great!
- Versatility: Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests—a true crowd-pleaser.
- Beautiful Presentation: The colorful mix of ingredients is as appealing as it is delicious.
This dish is sure to become a favorite at your table!
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total time: 30-40 minutes
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20-30 minutes
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (Adjust according to spice preference)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil (For cooking chicken)
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter (For the sauce)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (Plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (To adjust sauce consistency)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the bowtie pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente, and then drain, reserving some pasta water.
- In the same pot, steam or blanch the broccoli for 2-3 minutes until vibrant and just tender, then set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Lower the heat and add butter, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the skillet with the chicken. Stir until the butter melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet, tossing everything together. Use the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
- Stir in the chopped parsley, chives, and Parmesan cheese, mixing until everything is well combined. Adjust seasoning as necessary.
- Serve immediately, topping with extra Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if desired.
How to Serve
- Presentation: Serve the dish in a large bowl or platter for a family style meal.
- Accompaniments: Pair with a fresh side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Portions: This recipe serves about four, making it perfect for family dining.
- Beverage pairing: A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling lemonade pairs beautifully with this dish.
Make this delightful meal shine on your dinner table!
Additional Tips
- For added flavor, consider roasting garlic or adding capers to the sauce.
- Customize the veggies by incorporating bell peppers or spinach for a different twist.
- Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing!
Recipe Variations
- Creamy Variation: Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce for a richer flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a spicier Cajun seasoning for heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For best results, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Special Equipment
- Large pot for pasta
- Skillet for cooking chicken
- Strainer or colander
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
FAQ’s
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.
2. Is this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! Just substitute the bowtie pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook everything and store it in the fridge, then reheat it when ready to serve.
4. How can I customize the spice level?
Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your liking. For mild, reduce the amount or omit it altogether; for more heat, add crushed red pepper flakes.
5. What are alternative cooking methods?
You can grill the chicken or bake it, and opt for a stovetop method for the vegetables to enhance flavors.
Conclusion
Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is a flavorful, colorful dish that impresses both the taste buds and the eyes. It’s a well-balanced meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to lively get-togethers. Embrace the exciting flavors and nutritional benefits while enjoying the satisfaction of a delicious homemade meal. Go ahead, give this recipe a try, and watch it become a favorite!
Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning Adjust according to spice preference
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 each Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil For cooking chicken
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter For the sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Plus extra for topping
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water To adjust sauce consistency
Instructions
Cooking
- Cook the bowtie pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente, and then drain, reserving some pasta water.
- In the same pot, steam or blanch the broccoli for 2-3 minutes until vibrant and just tender, then set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Lower the heat and add butter, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the skillet with the chicken. Stir until the butter melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet, tossing everything together. Use the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
- Stir in the chopped parsley, chives, and Parmesan cheese, mixing until everything is well combined. Adjust seasoning as necessary.
- Serve immediately, topping with extra Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if desired.
