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Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken: Comfort in Every Bite

This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken is a quick family favorite, combining bright lemon flavor, creamy pasta, and vibrant broccoli for a delicious dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 580

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken and Pasta
  • 12 oz bowtie pasta or gluten-free pasta
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
For the Seasoning
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning adjust to taste
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • salt & black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional
For the Sauce
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 lemon juice and zest
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 tbsp chives chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for cooking
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter for sauce
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus extra for serving
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Steps to Prepare
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Add broccoli florets in the last 3 minutes of cooking. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste and toss well.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Scrape brown bits for flavor.
  5. Stir in crushed red pepper flakes (if using), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and zest, and mix. Add parsley and chives, season with salt and pepper.
  6. Return the pasta, broccoli, and chicken to the skillet. Toss together for about 2 minutes, adding reserved pasta water as needed for sauce consistency.
  7. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Serve warm, garnished with extra cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 580kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 80mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Enjoy immediate for best texture. Add more butter and cheese for a creamier sauce. Can substitute with gluten-free pasta if needed.

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