Ever had creamy, zesty goodness in one bowl?

This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is a delightful dinner that hits all the right notes! Imagine tender chicken paired with perfect pasta and vibrant broccoli, all drizzled with a rich Cowboy butter sauce. It’s quick to make, packed with flavor, and cleanup is a breeze—just what we need after a long day.

Why make this recipe

You’ll love this dish for so many reasons! First, it’s a one-pan wonder, meaning less mess for you to deal with. Who has time to scrub pots after a meal? Second, it’s super family-friendly—even the pickiest eaters can’t resist its comforting taste. Lastly, it’s downright affordable, giving you a restaurant-quality meal without breaking the bank. What’s not to love?

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

8 oz bowtie pasta
2 chicken breasts, diced
2 cups broccoli florets
1/2 cup cowboy butter (or garlic butter)
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the cowboy butter.
Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Add to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through.
Add the broccoli to the skillet and sauté until tender.
Stir in the cooked bowtie pasta and lemon juice, mixing well.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

How to make Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli (Overview)

Getting this meal on the table is as breezy as a spring afternoon! Start by cooking your bowtie pasta until it’s al dente. In that same skillet, you’ll melt your cowboy butter—just picture that buttery goodness wafting through the kitchen! Next, toss in your seasoned chicken and sauté until golden. Add in the broccoli for a pop of color and then mix in your pasta and zesty lemon juice. Voila! Dinner is done. Pro tip: make sure not to overcook the broccoli; you want that lovely crunch!

How to serve Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli

Serve this beauty in vibrant bowls, letting those colors pop! You can sprinkle extra parsley on top for a fresh finish. Pair it with a light salad or some crusty bread to soak up that delicious butter sauce. The aroma will have everyone flocking to the table in no time—trust me on that! 🥰

How to store Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli

Leftover bliss! Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for about 2 months; just reheat in the microwave or on the stove. For best results, add a splash of water or chicken broth when reheating to keep it nice and moist.

Tips to make Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli

Prep ahead: Dice your chicken and chop your broccoli the night before. Dinner will come together even faster!
Experiment with different veggies: Feel free to toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans for added texture and nutrition.
Adjust the butter level to your taste—if you love it rich, go ahead and add more!
For a bit of kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes before serving.

Variation

Want to change it up a bit? Try using shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist. You could also make it vegan by substituting the chicken with tofu and using a plant-based butter alternative. The possibilities are endless!

FAQs

Can I use other pasta shapes?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape will work, but bowties add a fun touch.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Sure thing! Prepare everything and store it in the fridge. Just heat up when you’re ready to eat!

Is this dish gluten-free?
You can easily make it gluten-free by swapping out regular pasta for a gluten-free version.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!