Let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli! This dish is a delightful explosion of flavors that will have you coming back for seconds (and thirds!). Picture this: tender chicken bathed in a rich, buttery sauce with a zesty kick from fresh lemon and just a hint of garlic. And let’s not forget the cheerful pop of vibrant green broccoli that adds not only color but also a satisfying crunch! I whipped this up one evening when I wanted something quick yet impressive, and it became an instant family favorite. It’s the perfect mix of comfort food and freshness, and trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your back pocket for those busy nights when you still want to impress!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups bowtie pasta
- 1 pound chicken breast, cubed
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How to Prepare Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
Now, let’s dive into making this delicious Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli! It’s super simple, and I promise you’ll impress everyone at the dinner table with these straightforward steps. Ready? Let’s go!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to salt your water well—it really makes a difference! Drain and set aside once it’s al dente.
- While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. You’ll want to keep an eye on it so it doesn’t brown too much, just get it nice and bubbly!
- Once the butter is melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly!
- Now, add the cubed chicken to the skillet. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. No one likes undercooked chicken, so make sure it’s no longer pink in the center!
- Next, stir in the broccoli florets. Sauté everything together for another 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and just tender. You want it to maintain a little crunch!
- Now, it’s time to add that zesty lemon juice and zest, along with the paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all those fabulous flavors!
- Finally, gently fold in the cooked bowtie pasta, mixing everything together until it’s well coated with that luscious cowboy butter lemon sauce. Yum!
- Before serving, don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness!
And there you have it! A scrumptious meal ready in about 35 minutes. Enjoy every bite of this flavorful dish!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown for each serving of this Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli. Keep in mind these values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what you’re fueling your body with!
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 30g
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein, making it a satisfying choice for any meal. Enjoy knowing you’re treating yourself right with every forkful!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re all set to whip up your Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli, let me share some of my favorite tips to ensure it turns out just perfect every time!
- Don’t rush the butter: When melting the butter, keep the heat at medium. You want it to be bubbly but not browned. If it browns, you might lose that beautiful buttery flavor!
- Season your pasta water: This is a game-changer! A well-salted pot of water makes all the difference in flavor. It’s the first opportunity to season your pasta, so don’t skip this step!
- Check your chicken: Make sure your chicken is cooked through before adding the broccoli. Cut a piece in half to check for any pinkness because no one wants a surprise at dinner!
- Timing is key: Keep an eye on the broccoli; you want it tender but still crisp. If you overcook it, it can turn mushy, and that’s not the texture we’re after!
- Adjust the lemon: If you love a zesty kick, feel free to add a bit more lemon juice or zest. I always say, when in doubt, lemon it out!
- Customize the spices: If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat or even some Italian seasoning for extra depth. Get creative with what you love!
- Garnish generously: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color to your dish but also a fresh flavor that brightens everything up. Don’t be shy with it!
With these tips in your back pocket, I’m confident you’ll create a cowboy butter chicken dish that’ll wow your family and friends. Happy cooking!
Variations of the Recipe
One of the things I absolutely love about this Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is how versatile it is! You can easily switch things up to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:
- Protein Swap: If chicken isn’t your thing, try using shrimp or scallops! They cook up quickly and soak in that delicious cowboy butter lemon sauce beautifully. You could also use tofu or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Veggie Party: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas! They not only add color but also a delightful crunch. Just sauté them until they’re tender, and you’ll have a rainbow of flavors!
- Pasta Change: Switch up the bowtie pasta for another shape! Fusilli, penne, or even whole wheat pasta can bring a different texture and taste while still being equally delicious.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs! Basil, thyme, or even dill can add a fresh twist to your dish. Just toss them in at the end for a burst of flavor!
- Cheesy Goodness: For a cheesy version, sprinkle in some grated Parmesan or feta cheese just before serving. It melts beautifully into the dish, adding a creamy richness that’s simply divine.
- Spice It Up: If you like a kick, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also incorporate some curry powder for a unique flavor twist that’ll take your taste buds on an adventure!
With these variations, you can keep this dish fresh and exciting every time you make it. So, feel free to get creative and make it your own! Happy cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: You can whip up this flavorful dish in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
- Flavor Explosion: The cowboy butter lemon sauce brings a delightful mix of richness and zest that’ll have everyone asking for more!
- Colorful and Nutritious: With vibrant broccoli and protein-packed chicken, this dish is not only pretty but also loaded with nutrients.
- Versatile: Easily customize it with different proteins and veggies to keep things exciting every time you make it.
- Comfort Food: It gives you that warm, cozy feeling of home cooking while still being fresh and light!
- Gluten-Free Option: Just swap the bowtie pasta for a gluten-free variety, and you’re all set for everyone at the table!
- Impressive Presentation: The bright colors and delicious aromas make it a showstopper for any dinner party or family meal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After enjoying your Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli, you might find yourself with some delicious leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Storing them properly is key to keeping all those wonderful flavors intact.
First, let your dish cool to room temperature. Once it’s cooled down, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. I usually recommend using glass containers if you have them—they’re great for reheating and don’t absorb any odors!
Store your leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you think you won’t finish them in that time, you can also freeze portions. Just make sure to label the containers with the date so you know when you made it. Frozen leftovers can last for about 2 months, but they’re best enjoyed fresh!
When it comes to reheating, you have a couple of options. For the best results, I suggest reheating on the stovetop. Just place the desired portion in a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or chicken broth to help rehydrate the pasta and prevent sticking, and stir occasionally until heated through. This method keeps the pasta from drying out and will help maintain that creamy sauce.
If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave. Just pop your portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until it’s warmed to your liking.
Whichever method you choose, just remember to check the temperature before diving in again. You want that cozy, comforting dish back to its full glory!
Serving Suggestions
To create a delightful and well-rounded meal alongside your Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli, I’ve got some fantastic ideas that will complement the flavors beautifully!
- Garlic Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of garlic bread is always a hit! It’s perfect for sopping up that delicious cowboy butter sauce and adds a comforting touch to the meal.
- Simple Side Salad: A fresh side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can brighten up the plate. The crunch and acidity will balance the richness of the chicken dish perfectly!
- Roasted Vegetables: Try serving some roasted carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts on the side. The caramelization from roasting adds an extra layer of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the lemony chicken.
- Steamed Rice or Quinoa: For a heartier option, serve your chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. The grains will soak up the saucy goodness, making every bite satisfying!
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: If it’s summer, grilled corn on the cob is a delicious and fun side! Brush it with some butter and sprinkle with a bit of salt, and you’ve got a perfect pairing!
These sides not only enhance your meal but also create a colorful and inviting table. Enjoy your delicious spread! Happy dining!
Print
Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Delight
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful cowboy butter lemon sauce elevates this bowtie chicken and broccoli dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups bowtie pasta
- 1 pound chicken breast, cubed
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Cook bowtie pasta according to package instructions.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add chicken and cook until browned.
- Stir in broccoli and sauté until tender.
- Add lemon juice, zest, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the chicken and broccoli mixture.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add crushed red pepper flakes.
- Use fresh lemon for the best taste.
- Can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for variation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Recipe