Cowboy Butter Lemon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli – Easy Weeknight Dinner
There’s something extra satisfying about a dinner that feels indulgent but still comes together fast—and this Cowboy Butter Lemon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli checks all the boxes. From the moment the lemony butter sauce hits the pan, you know you’re in for a crave-worthy meal. Tender chicken, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, and vibrant broccoli are all tossed together in a bold, garlicky sauce that tastes like way more effort than it actually takes. It’s comfort food with a fresh, zesty twist that fits beautifully into busy schedules.
What really makes this dish shine is how versatile it is. It fits right into cozy Homecooked Meals, works perfectly for Easy Weeknight Meals, and feels special enough to serve when friends come over. The cowboy butter sauce adds richness and brightness at the same time, turning simple ingredients into something memorable. While this recipe focuses on chicken, it’s easy to adapt for different preferences, which is why it’s often bookmarked alongside Vegan Dinner Recipes for future inspiration.
When dinner needs to be quick, satisfying, and budget-friendly, this recipe delivers. It’s the kind of meal that proves Quick Weeknight Meals and Easy Pasta don’t have to be boring. One bite, and it’s easy to see why this lemony chicken pasta earns a permanent spot in your dinner rotation. 🍋🍝
Cowboy Butter Lemon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli
Ingredients
Pasta & Protein- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small chunks
- 12 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt, as needed
- Black pepper, as needed
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Zest and juice from 1 fresh lemon
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- ½ cup pasta cooking water, reserved
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta and Broccoli: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until just tender. During the final 3 minutes of cooking, drop in the broccoli florets. Scoop out ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain everything and set aside.
- Season the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and coat them evenly with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Build the Cowboy Butter Sauce: Using the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the garlic and cook briefly, about 1–2 minutes, until aromatic. Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix in the parsley and chives, then season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Bring Everything Together: Return the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken to the skillet. Toss until everything is well coated in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the mixture. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir until smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Serve hot, topped with extra Parmesan, fresh parsley, and an extra squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
Notes
For an extra-rich finish, add a bit more butter or Parmesan. Gluten-free pasta works well as a substitute. Toss everything together quickly to keep the pasta from sticking.
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