Picture this: it’s a busy weeknight, and you want to whip up something that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen. That’s where this Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli comes in! This dish is not only quick and easy to make, but it’s also packed with flavor and sure to impress your family or guests. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your back pocket!
Why You’ll Love Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
- Fast
- Easy
- Giftable
- Crowd-pleasing
Ingredients
- 8 oz bowtie pasta: This fun pasta shape holds onto the sauce beautifully!
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: A lean protein that cooks quickly.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Fresh and vibrant, they add color and nutrients.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: The star of the cowboy butter flavor!
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Because garlic makes everything better!
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a lovely smokiness.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic herb that pairs well with chicken.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: For a touch of earthiness.
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced): Brightens up the dish with its freshness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning!
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A pop of color on your plate.
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional): Because cheese makes everything better!
How to Make Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, oregano, and thyme.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Cook the Broccoli: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the broccoli florets and a splash of water. Cover the skillet and steam the broccoli for about 3-4 minutes, until tender but still bright green.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet with the broccoli. Pour in the lemon juice and zest, and toss everything together to combine. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Slice the cooked chicken and place it on top of the pasta and broccoli mixture. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Substitutions & Additions
Feel free to get creative! You can swap the chicken for shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian option. If you’re not a fan of broccoli, asparagus or green beans work wonderfully too. And if you want to make it a bit heartier, adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives can give it a Mediterranean twist!
Tips for Success
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender.
- When cooking the broccoli, keep it bright green and slightly crisp for the best texture.
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and just heat it through.
- This dish can be prepped ahead; just store the components separately and combine before serving.
How to Store Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
FAQs
- Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and pasta, but the broccoli may lose its texture when thawed.
- What can I serve with this dish? A simple salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully with this meal.
- Can I make this without pasta? Absolutely! You can serve it over rice or quinoa instead.
And there you have it! This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Lemon Chicken or Easy Avocado Toast for treats you will love!
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Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
Picture this: it’s a busy weeknight, and you want to whip up something that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen. That’s where this Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli comes in! This dish is not only quick and easy to make, but it’s also packed with flavor and sure to impress your family or guests.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, oregano, and thyme.
- Step 3: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Step 4: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the broccoli florets and a splash of water. Cover the skillet and steam the broccoli for about 3-4 minutes, until tender but still bright green.
- Step 5: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet with the broccoli. Pour in the lemon juice and zest, and toss everything together to combine. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Step 6: Slice the cooked chicken and place it on top of the pasta and broccoli mixture. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
