Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the irresistible combination of Cowboy Butter, tangy lemon, and tender bowtie chicken paired with fresh broccoli. This dish is a flavor explosion that’s sure to become a new family favorite. Packed with rich, creamy goodness and a hint of zesty citrus, the Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
To bring this mouthwatering dish to life, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create a truly exceptional flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups bowtie pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 lemon (juice and zest)
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Cooking Techniques for Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
To create the perfect Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli, you’ll need to master a few essential cooking techniques. First, you’ll need to cook the pasta and broccoli to perfection, ensuring they’re tender but still have a bit of bite. Then, you’ll sear the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through, locking in all the juicy flavors. Finally, you’ll make the showstopping Cowboy Butter sauce, which is the star of the dish, by carefully blending the butter, garlic, lemon, and other savory ingredients.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
Ready to dive into this delectable dish? Follow these step-by-step instructions to bring the Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli to life in your own kitchen:
- Cook Pasta & Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make Cowboy Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Melt the butter, then add the garlic and sauté until fragrant (1–2 minutes). Stir in the red pepper flakes (if using), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Add the chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli. Toss everything until evenly coated in the sauce.
- Finish: Stir in the chopped parsley. Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, and lemon as needed. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutritional Benefits of the Ingredients
The Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is not only delicious, but it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. The bowtie pasta provides complex carbohydrates and fiber, while the chicken breasts are a lean source of protein. Broccoli is a nutrient-dense vegetable that’s rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The healthy fats from the olive oil and butter also contribute to the dish’s overall nutritional profile.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
The Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a fresh garden salad or a side of roasted vegetables. You can also experiment with different protein sources, such as shrimp or tofu, to create vegetarian or seafood-based variations. Additionally, you can switch up the pasta shape or add in other seasonal vegetables to keep the dish interesting and tailored to your preferences.
More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
- Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine with Garlic Cajun Butter
- Creamy Chicken Bacon Spinach Pasta
- Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta
FAQs about Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
Can I use whole wheat bowtie pasta instead of regular bowtie pasta?
Yes, you can absolutely use whole wheat bowtie pasta as a substitute for regular bowtie pasta in this recipe. Whole wheat pasta offers a nuttier flavor and additional fiber, making it a healthier option. Just be aware that whole wheat pasta may require a slightly longer cooking time, so be sure to check the package instructions for the best results. The flavor of the Cowboy Butter Lemon sauce will still complement the whole wheat pasta beautifully.
How can I make Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli spicier?
If you want to add more heat to your Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli, consider increasing the amount of red pepper flakes in the sauce. You can also add fresh chili peppers, such as sliced jalapeños or serranos, when cooking the chicken. For an extra kick, a dash of hot sauce can be stirred in right before serving. Just remember to adjust these additions according to your spice tolerance!
Can I make this dish in a one-pot format?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe to a one-pot format for easier cleanup. Start by cooking the chicken in a large pot with olive oil until browned, then remove it and set aside. In the same pot, add the pasta and broccoli with the appropriate amount of water or broth, cooking according to package instructions. Once the pasta and broccoli are cooked, add the chicken back to the pot along with the Cowboy Butter sauce ingredients. Stir until everything is combined, and enjoy a simplified cooking process!
What can I pair with Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken for a complete meal?
To create a well-rounded meal alongside your Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli, consider serving a simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette. Additionally, crusty garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables would complement the rich, buttery flavors of the dish. If you want a heartier option, a creamy soup such as tomato basil or a light seafood chowder can also be a delightful pairing.
Conclusion
Prepare to be wowed by the incredible flavors of the Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli. This dish is a true culinary delight, seamlessly blending the comforting richness of Cowboy Butter with the bright, tangy notes of lemon. The tender chicken and fresh broccoli provide a satisfying texture contrast, making every bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or hosting a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress and delight everyone at the table. Get ready to savor the ultimate in comfort and flavor with the Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli!
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Experience the Flavor of Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the irresistible combination of Cowboy Butter, tangy lemon, and tender bowtie chicken paired with fresh broccoli. This dish is a flavor explosion that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 cup bowtie pasta
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cup broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 lemon (juice and zest)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook Pasta & Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make Cowboy Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Melt the butter, then add the garlic and sauté until fragrant (1–2 minutes). Stir in the red pepper flakes (if using), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Add the chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli. Toss everything until evenly coated in the sauce.
- Finish: Stir in the chopped parsley. Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, and lemon as needed. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
The Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is not only delicious, but it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. The bowtie pasta provides complex carbohydrates and fiber, while the chicken breasts are a lean source of protein. Broccoli is a nutrient-dense vegetable that’s rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 100mg