Why Make This Recipe
Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is a fantastic dish that brings together flavors and textures in a delightful way. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and zesty lemon complements the rich cowboy butter, creating a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. Plus, it’s colorful and appealing, making it a hit for family dinners or gatherings.
How to Make Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
Ingredients:
- 8 oz bowtie pasta
- 2 chicken breasts
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup cowboy butter (butter mixed with garlic, herbs, and spices)
- 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Directions:
- Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the cowboy butter over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and cook them in the skillet until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove them from the skillet and let them rest before slicing.
- In the same skillet, add the broccoli and sauté until it is tender.
- Combine the pasta, sliced chicken, broccoli, lemon juice, and zest in the skillet. Toss to combine all the ingredients.
- Serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
How to Serve Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
This dish is best served warm. You can place the pasta and chicken mix on a plate and sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. For a touch of freshness, you might add a few lemon wedges on the side. Pair it with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can easily reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. Just add a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.
Tips to Make Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
- Make sure the chicken is cooked fully before slicing. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for a stronger flavor.
- Adjust the amount of cowboy butter to your taste; you can use a little less if you prefer a lighter dish.
Variation
You can swap out the bowtie pasta for any pasta shape you like. Additionally, you could use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist. For a vegetarian version, just omit the chicken and add more vegetables or some beans for protein.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just add it to the skillet while sautéing and cook for a few additional minutes until heated through.
2. Is it okay to use store-bought cowboy butter?
Absolutely! Store-bought cowboy butter can save you time and still give you great flavor.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the pasta and chicken, then combine everything shortly before serving for the best taste.
Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
A quick and flavorful dish combining tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and zesty lemon with rich cowboy butter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Paleo
Ingredients
- 8 oz bowtie pasta
- 2 chicken breasts
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup cowboy butter (butter mixed with garlic, herbs, and spices)
- 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat the cowboy butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and cook them in the skillet until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove them from the skillet and let them rest before slicing.
- Add the broccoli to the same skillet and sauté until it is tender.
- Combine the pasta, sliced chicken, broccoli, lemon juice, and zest in the skillet. Toss to combine all the ingredients.
- Serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Notes
For a lighter dish, adjust the amount of cowboy butter. You can also substitute shrimp for chicken or use different pasta shapes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
