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Lemon Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta with Broccoli: Your New Favorite Weeknight Dinner

This Lemon Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta features tender bowtie pasta tossed with juicy chicken, fresh broccoli florets, and a vibrant lemon garlic butter sauce. This one-pan wonder comes together in just 30 minutes for restaurant-quality flavor perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 425
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice of 2 lemons
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cups chicken broth

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Begin by cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces and seasoning with salt and pepper. Chop your broccoli into small florets and mince the garlic.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chicken broth, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a simmer.
  4. Add the bowtie pasta and broccoli florets to the simmering liquid. Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and broccoli is tender-crisp.
  5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and fresh parsley. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
  6. Spoon the pasta into bowls and garnish with additional Parmesan and parsley.

Notes

Choose bowtie pasta for sauce clinging; don't overcook broccoli to retain crunch; adjust red pepper flakes for desired heat; add heavy cream for creamier sauce; use frozen broccoli without thawing; recipe reheats well with added broth