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Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli

A delightful dish featuring savory chicken, bright lemon, and tender broccoli mixed with creamy bowtie pasta, perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken and Pasta
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 12 oz bowtie farfalle pasta
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • Seasoning and Sauce
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning Adjust according to spice preference
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh chives chopped
  • Cooking Oils
  • 2 tbsp olive oil For cooking chicken
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter For the sauce
  • Garnish
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Plus extra for topping
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water To adjust sauce consistency

Instructions
 

  • Preparation
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add bowtie pasta and cook until al dente.
  • In the last 3 minutes, add broccoli florets. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  • In a bowl, season chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • Cooking Chicken
  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  • Making the Sauce
  • In the same skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Stir in red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and zest. Mix in parsley and chives, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  • Combining Ingredients
  • Add pasta, broccoli, and chicken back to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
  • Stir in Parmesan cheese until creamy and well combined.
  • Serve warm with extra Parmesan, fresh parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Notes

For a creamier sauce, add more butter and Parmesan cheese. Use gluten-free pasta for a healthier option. Toss quickly to prevent sticking.