Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli

Introduction

Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is the perfect fusion of bold flavors, comforting pasta, and fresh ingredients—all wrapped up in one irresistible dish. If you love rich buttery sauces with a punch of garlic, lemon, and herbs, this recipe is about to become a favorite in your kitchen.

“Cowboy butter” is known for its vibrant flavor profile: melted butter infused with garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, herbs, and a touch of spice. When paired with tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and bowtie pasta, it transforms into a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

This dish is ideal for busy weeknights because it comes together quickly, yet it feels special enough for guests. It’s hearty without being heavy, zesty without being overpowering, and incredibly customizable. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a bold pasta dish, Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli delivers big flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

1 pound bowtie (farfalle) pasta

1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

3 cups broccoli florets

6 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon lemon zest

1 teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

½ teaspoon black pepper

¼ cup chicken broth or pasta water

¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Optional garnish: chopped parsley, extra lemon wedges

Preparation
Step 1:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Add broccoli during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 2:

Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 3:

Add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4:

Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, then stir in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.

Step 5:

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli along with chicken broth or reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until well coated. Sprinkle with Parmesan, adjust seasoning, and serve immediately.

Variations

Creamy Version: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream or cream cheese for a richer sauce

Protein Swap: Use shrimp or sliced sausage instead of chicken

Low-Carb Option: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower florets

Extra Veggies: Add spinach, asparagus, or green beans

Cheese Lovers: Finish with mozzarella or Asiago cheese

Cooking Note

Cowboy butter sauce cooks quickly, so keep the heat at medium once the garlic is added. Overheating can cause the butter to separate or the garlic to burn, which affects the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a simple green salad and vinaigrette

Pair with garlic bread or crusty bread

Add a glass of sparkling lemonade or iced tea

Finish with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs

Tips

Cut chicken evenly to ensure uniform cooking

Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor

Reserve pasta water—it helps bind the sauce

Don’t overcook broccoli; keep it bright and slightly crisp

Taste and adjust seasoning before serving

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

25 minutes

Total Time:

40 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)

Calories: 590

Protein: 39g

Sodium: 760mg

FAQs

What is cowboy butter?
Cowboy butter is a flavored butter sauce made with garlic, lemon, mustard, herbs, and spices.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best served fresh. Reheat gently with a splash of broth.

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes. Thaw and drain well before adding to avoid excess moisture.

Is this dish spicy?
It’s mildly spicy. You can omit red pepper flakes for a milder version.

What pasta works best?
Bowtie pasta is ideal, but penne, rotini, or fusilli also work well.

Conclusion

Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is bold, buttery, bright, and incredibly satisfying. The combination of zesty lemon, rich butter, juicy chicken, and tender broccoli creates a balanced pasta dish that feels indulgent yet fresh. Easy enough for weeknights and impressive enough for guests, this recipe is proof that simple ingredients can deliver unforgettable flavor.

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