Ever had a dish that tastes like sunshine on a plate?

Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli brings together flavors that dance on your taste buds! It’s a quick, creamy, and comforting one-pan meal that you can whip up in no time. Seriously, if you’re looking for a family-friendly dinner that impresses just about everyone, this is it!

Why make this recipe

Here’s the deal: this dish offers the trifecta of culinary bliss.

Easy cleanup: One pan, folks! That means more time to do the things you love—like binge-watching your favorite show.
Affordable and wholesome: You won’t break the bank snagging these ingredients. And hello, it’s packed with protein and veggies!
Deliciousness galore: Who doesn’t want buttery chicken paired with the bright zing of lemon? Trust me when I say you’ll be licking your plate clean!

Ingredients

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

8 oz bowtie pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
2 chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
1/2 cup unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, juiced and zested
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions.
Add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water during the last 3 minutes of cooking.
Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Stir in the lemon juice and zest, and season with salt and pepper.
Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet and toss to combine.
Gently mix in the grilled chicken slices and fresh parsley.
Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley and lemon if desired.

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

Making this dish is as easy as pie—or should I say, easy as bowtie pasta? You start by cooking the pasta and tossing in the broccoli for those last few glorious minutes. While that happens, melt the butter and sauté the garlic until it’s aroma is food heaven. Then, you combine it all in one happy skillet.

Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic — it adds so much flavor!

How to serve Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli

Serve this beauty in a deep bowl to really showcase the vibrant green broccoli and golden chicken against the pasta. Drizzle a little extra lemon juice on top for a fresh kick and a sprinkle of parsley for that pop of color. The smell will have everyone gathering around the table, ready to dig in and savor each satisfying bite. 🍽️

How to store Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli

This dish keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days in an airtight container. If you’re meal prepping, feel free to make a big batch! As for the freezer, it’s best enjoyed fresh but can last for about 2 months. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop to avoid soggy pasta—nobody wants that!

Tips to make Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli

Cook the pasta al dente: This will ensure it holds up well in the skillet with the sauce.
Use rotisserie chicken: For an even quicker option, grab a rotisserie chicken from the store!
Swap in different veggies: If you have other veggies lying around, throw them in! Peas or spinach work wonderfully.

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat, or swap the chicken for chickpeas to make it vegan-friendly! You can also switch out the bowtie pasta for any pasta shape you love — the world is your oyster!

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the pasta and sauce, then combine them just before serving for the best taste.

What can I use instead of butter?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, olive oil can work as a substitute for butter.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, but for optimal flavor, it’s best to eat this dish fresh. If you freeze it, gently reheat on the stove.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!