Description

Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken & Broccoli is a flavorful, hearty dish featuring tender pan-seared chicken breasts served with al dente bowtie pasta tossed in a zesty lemon butter sauce with garlic, herbs, and smoked paprika, accompanied by lightly blanched broccoli florets for a nutritious, balanced meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Sauce

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 large shallot, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp lemon zest

Pasta and Vegetables

12 oz farfalle (bowtie) pasta
4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 lb)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Blanch the Broccoli: In the same or a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Season the chicken with black pepper as it cooks. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Prepare the Cowboy Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Once melted, add minced garlic, shallot, chopped parsley, chives, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir to combine and simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Add Lemon and Pasta: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest, then add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the butter sauce over the chicken, and warm through for 1-2 minutes. Serve the chicken and pasta alongside the blanched broccoli.

Notes

For extra heat, add the full 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or increase red pepper flakes to taste.
Ensure not to overcook the broccoli; blanching keeps it bright green and crisp-tender.
This recipe pairs well with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Use freshly grated lemon zest and fresh lemon juice for the best, bright flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: chicken, bowtie pasta, lemon butter sauce, broccoli, sautéed chicken, smoked paprika, easy dinner