The moment I tossed vibrant broccoli and luscious chicken into a sizzling skillet, I felt a wave of culinary excitement wash over me. The recipe for Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is a delightful escape from the mundane, transforming simple ingredients into a vibrant dish that’s sure to make your taste buds dance. In just 25 minutes, you’ll whip up an irresistible meal that’s not only quick to prepare but also a perfect family-friendly crowd-pleaser. With a tantalizing lemony twist and the comforting richness of butter, this dish proves that homemade meals can easily topple takeout options. So, are you ready to savor a plateful of deliciousness that’s both wholesome and satisfying?
Why is Cowboy Butter Chicken a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes, you can achieve a restaurant-quality dish right at home!
Flavor Explosion: The blend of garlic, ranch seasoning, and fresh lemon results in an irresistible sauce that elevates the entire meal.
Nutrient-Packed: Toss in broccoli florets for a vibrant touch that adds essential vitamins to this hearty dish.
Comforting and Wholesome: The buttery richness paired with tender chicken and pasta creates a satisfying experience that's perfect for any family dinner.
Versatility: Customize with your favorite veggies or proteins; this recipe is your canvas to experiment!
Don't miss out on trying this delightful recipe; it'll soon be your go-to for escaping the fast-food routine and enjoying wholesome homemade goodness.
Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create this mouthwatering Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli.
For the Pasta
• 8 oz bowtie pasta – use whole wheat or gluten-free for a healthier option.
For the Chicken
• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast – cut into bite-size pieces for even cooking.
For the Vegetables
• 2 cups broccoli florets – fresh broccoli adds a lovely crunch and vibrant color.
For the Butter Sauce
• 4 tablespoon unsalted butter – choose quality butter for rich flavor.
• 3 cloves minced garlic – fresh garlic enhances the overall taste profile.
• 1 teaspoon ranch seasoning mix – brings an irresistible savory note to the dish.
• 1 lemon zested and juiced – brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the butter.
For the Garnish
• 2 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley – adds freshness and a pop of color.
• 2 tablespoon chopped fresh chives – brings a mild onion flavor that complements the dish.
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – contributes a salty creaminess that ties everything together.
For Cooking
• 2 tablespoon olive oil – ideal for sautéing the chicken and adds healthy fats.
• Salt to taste – enhances the flavors of the entire dish.
• Pepper to taste – a pinch of freshly ground pepper rounds out the seasoning.
Now, gather these ingredients and let’s indulge in the delicious adventure of making Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the 8 oz of bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions, about 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander, shaking off excess water, and set it aside to keep warm.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the 1 lb of bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them generously with salt and pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F. Push the chicken to one side of the skillet.
Step 3: Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce
To the same skillet with the chicken, add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and let it melt, swirling it gently. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon of ranch seasoning mix. Cook for about 1 minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant and slightly golden, which will infuse the Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with delicious flavors.
Step 4: Add the Broccoli
Next, add 2 cups of broccoli florets to the skillet, along with the zest of 1 lemon and the juice from the same lemon. Toss everything to combine well, ensuring the broccoli gets coated with the flavorful sauce. Cook for another 3–4 minutes until the broccoli is tender-crisp, showcasing a vibrant green color that adds freshness to your dish.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Carefully fold the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet, mixing it well with the chicken, sauce, and broccoli. To enhance the flavors, stir in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese along with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh chives. Toss everything together until evenly distributed, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Take a moment to taste your Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli, adjusting the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or more lemon juice as desired. Serve the dish hot on plates, garnishing with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs for a visually appealing finish that invites everyone to dig in!
Make Ahead Options
These Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli are an excellent choice for meal prep! You can cook the pasta and chicken up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. The broccoli can also be blanched a day ahead and stored separately, which helps retain its crispness. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding the broccoli and finishing with the butter sauce, lemon juice, and cheese to meld the flavors together. This way, you can enjoy a delicious, homemade meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken
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Timing is Key: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready. This ensures you can quickly add items to the skillet without burning the garlic or overcooking the chicken.
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Perfect Pasta: Cook the bowtie pasta until just al dente. This way, when you combine it with the other ingredients, it won't become too soft and mushy.
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Butter Quality Matters: Use high-quality unsalted butter to enrich your Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli, enhancing the overall flavor beautifully.
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Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added color and nutrition. Just adjust cooking time as necessary.
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Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: Always opt for fresh parsley and chives instead of dried. Fresh herbs brighten the dish and elevate the flavor profile significantly.
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Taste as You Go: Don’t hesitate to taste your dish at various stages—you can adjust seasoning and lemon juice to achieve your desired balance.
Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Variations
Feel free to elevate your Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli by embracing these exciting twists!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute bowtie pasta with gluten-free pasta for a lighter option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
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Protein Swap: Use shrimp or salmon instead of chicken for a seafood delight, providing a delightful new texture.
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Vegan Delight: Replace chicken with chickpeas and use vegan butter for a hearty plant-based meal that's still rich and satisfying.
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Extra Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to amp up the nutrition and introduce vibrant flavors and colors to your dish.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for those who crave a bit of heat in their cooking.
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Creamy Version: Stir in a little heavy cream or Greek yogurt at the end for an ultra-creamy sauce that wraps around the pasta and chicken beautifully.
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Lemon Love: Enhance the lemon flavor by incorporating lemon slices or additional zest, creating a refreshingly zesty experience with every bite.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh thyme or basil with the parsley and chives for those who adore an aromatic touch that elevates the dish to new heights.
These variations let you play with flavors and ingredients, ensuring each meal feels fresh and exciting. Don't hesitate to explore other combinations, and as always, enjoy the cooking process! For wonderful side dish suggestions, consider pairing this with a light garden salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal experience.
How to Store and Freeze Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken
Fridge: Keep leftover Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its flavors and keeps the chicken juicy.
Freezer: Freeze the cooked dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to prevent ice crystals.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to restore moisture.
Serving Fresh: For the best taste, enjoy your Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken fresh after cooking, but leftovers can still be delicious when stored properly!
What to Serve with Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken?
The perfect meal experience is all about delightful companions that enhance every bite of your vibrant dish.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, crispy garlic bread adds a savory crunch that complements the richness of the butter sauce beautifully.
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Caesar Salad: A refreshing Caesar salad balances the richness of your main dish while providing a satisfying crunch from the romaine and the creamy dressing.
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Roasted Asparagus: Bright, tender asparagus spears tossed in olive oil and sea salt add a lovely earthy flavor and a vibrant green contrast to your plate.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth and whipped texture of creamy mashed potatoes acts as a comforting base, soaking up the flavorful butter sauce for a truly satisfying meal.
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Lemonade Spritzer: A refreshing lemonade spritzer, thanks to its tangy bubbles, offers a cooling contrast to the warm, savory flavors of your meal.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, treat yourself to chocolate mousse; its light and airy richness pairs fantastically with the citrus notes from the dinner, leaving you with a sweet finale.
Each of these pairings harmonizes beautifully with the Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken, crafting a full meal experience you won’t forget!
Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting broccoli for the recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing broccoli, look for vibrant green florets with tightly closed buds. Avoid any that have dark spots or yellowing, as these may indicate age or spoilage. Freshness is key to ensuring your dish has a lovely crunch!
How should I store leftover Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken?
Very simple! Store your leftover Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps retain the flavors and keeps the chicken juicy. Always ensure it's cooled down before sealing to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze this dish, and if so, how?
Certainly! To freeze, let your Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Make sure to label it with the date, so you remember when it was frozen. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
What can I do if my chicken isn't cooking evenly?
If you're finding unevenly cooked chicken, it could be due to the size of the pieces. Make sure to cut your chicken into uniformly sized bite-size pieces, ideally about 1 inch. This helps them cook evenly. If you notice that some bits are browning too quickly while others are still raw, lower the heat slightly and keep stirring gently to distribute the heat.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely consider substitutes if you're catering to allergies. For gluten-free options, swap the bowtie pasta for gluten-free pasta. If you'd like a lighter option, you can use skinless chicken thighs or a plant-based protein. Always check for specific allergies related to dairy (from the butter and Parmesan) and ensure your ranch seasoning is suitable for dietary needs.
How can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?
To make a delightful vegetarian version of Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or diced tofu to maintain that hearty texture. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for the sauce, and feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to enrich the dish further.
Delicious Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
Equipment
- large pot
- large skillet
- Colander
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 oz bowtie pasta use whole wheat or gluten-free for a healthier option
For the Chicken
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast cut into bite-size pieces for even cooking
For the Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets fresh broccoli adds a lovely crunch and vibrant color
For the Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoon unsalted butter choose quality butter for rich flavor
- 3 cloves minced garlic fresh garlic enhances the overall taste profile
- 1 teaspoon ranch seasoning mix brings an irresistible savory note to the dish
- 1 lemon zested and juiced brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the butter
For the Garnish
- 2 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley adds freshness and a pop of color
- 2 tablespoon chopped fresh chives brings a mild onion flavor that complements the dish
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese contributes a salty creaminess that ties everything together
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoon olive oil ideal for sautéing the chicken and adds healthy fats
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Drain and keep warm.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Push chicken to one side.
- To the skillet, add butter and let it melt. Stir in minced garlic and ranch seasoning mix. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add broccoli florets, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Toss to coat and cook for another 3-4 minutes until broccoli is tender-crisp.
- Fold in the cooked bowtie pasta and mix well with chicken, sauce, and broccoli. Stir in grated Parmesan, parsley, and chives until evenly distributed.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or lemon juice. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and herbs.
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