Lemon Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta with Broccoli – One Pan Dinner
Lemon Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta with Broccoli
This vibrant one-pan pasta dish combines tender chicken, bowtie pasta, and fresh broccoli in a creamy lemon garlic butter sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, this family-friendly meal comes together in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup. The bright citrus notes from fresh lemon balance the rich cowboy butter sauce, creating a comforting pasta dinner that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 4 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Add broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet.
Step 3: Reduce heat to medium and add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add smoked paprika and red pepper flakes if using.
Step 4: Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for 2 minutes.
Step 5: Stir in heavy cream and lemon zest, then return cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and broccoli, tossing to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
Step 6: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Expert Tips
For the best flavor, use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled. The zest adds an extra burst of citrus that brightens the entire dish. If you’re looking for other refreshing meal ideas, try pairing this pasta with a refreshing watermelon mint drink for a complete meal experience.
To make this dish even quicker, use pre-cut broccoli florets and chicken tenders. The cowboy butter sauce gets its name from the combination of smoked paprika and red pepper that gives it a slightly smoky, Western-inspired flavor profile.
FAQ
Can I use a different pasta shape? Absolutely! Penne, rotini, or fusilli work well with this sauce. The bowtie shape is great for holding the creamy sauce, but any short pasta will work.
How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? You can prep the ingredients in advance, but for best results, cook and serve immediately. The pasta may absorb the sauce if left to sit too long.
For more quick dinner inspiration and family-friendly recipes that come together in minutes, explore our collection of easy weeknight meals that are perfect for busy schedules.
Lemon Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta with Broccoli
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Add broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet.
- Reduce heat to medium and add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add smoked paprika and red pepper flakes if using.
- Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for 2 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and lemon zest, then return cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and broccoli, tossing to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
