Introduction

Lemon Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Cowboy Butter is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, bright lemon, and a rich, garlicky butter sauce. Quick to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners, it brings a delicious twist to classic pasta. The addition of broccoli adds freshness and a pop of color for a balanced meal.

In a white bowl sits a layered dish starting with a base of creamy, light-colored farfalle pasta scattered evenly around the edges. Bright green broccoli florets are placed intermittently among the pasta, adding a pop of color and texture. On top of this base layer, several pieces of grilled chicken with a golden-brown, slightly charred surface are arranged in the center. The chicken pieces are garnished with finely chopped green herbs that add a fresh touch and contrast with the warm, grilled tones. The white marbled texture beneath the bowl provides a clean and elegant backdrop. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 tsp Cajun seasoning

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

Salt and black pepper, to taste

2 tbsp olive oil

6 tbsp unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

1 tsp Dijon mustard

Zest and juice of 1 lemon

12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta

2 cups broccoli florets

1/2 cup reserved pasta water

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat evenly.

Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until cooked through and lightly browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook bowtie pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Add broccoli florets during the last 3-4 minutes of cooking. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain pasta and broccoli together.

Step 4: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 5: Stir in Dijon mustard, lemon zest, and lemon juice, blending well.

Step 6: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat with the lemon butter sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.

Step 7: Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Pour in the reserved pasta water and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top. Gently toss until everything is well combined and the cheese melts into a creamy sauce.

Step 8: Stir in chopped parsley and chives. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on the side.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier kick, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.

You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier result.

Try adding sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms for extra depth of flavor.

Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

Fresh lemon juice brightens the sauce, so avoid using bottled lemon juice if possible.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, while bowtie pasta works well, you can use penne, rotini, or any medium-cut pasta that holds sauce nicely.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast or a dairy-free Parmesan substitute in place of the cheese.