Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta

2 cups broccoli florets

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

2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking chicken)

6 tbsp unsalted butter (for the sauce)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)

1/2 cup reserved pasta water (to adjust sauce consistency)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and broccoli and set aside.

Step 2: In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat evenly.

Step 3: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 4: Using the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 5: Stir in crushed red pepper flakes (if using), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Add chopped parsley and chives, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Return the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat in the lemon butter sauce, adding reserved pasta water little by little to reach your desired sauce consistency.

Step 7: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and well combined.

Step 8: Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan, fresh parsley, and an additional squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Tips & Variations

Swap bowtie pasta for penne or rotini if preferred.

Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra vegetables.

Adjust Cajun seasoning to suit your preferred spice level or substitute with smoked paprika alone for a milder flavor.

Use grated Pecorino Romano cheese as a sharper alternative to Parmesan.

For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half before adding Parmesan.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used. Add it to the pasta water during the last 3 minutes of cooking just like fresh broccoli, then drain and proceed with the recipe.

Is this recipe spicy?

The level of spice depends on the amount of Cajun seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes used. You can adjust or omit the red pepper flakes to make it milder or increase the Cajun seasoning for more heat.