Description
A delightful fusion of rich butter, zesty lemon, and savory spices, this Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken is a perfect choice for any weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 12 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
Instructions
- Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions. In the last 2-3 minutes, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. Drain both, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken until golden and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant, around 1 minute. Stir in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and zest. Let it cook for 1-2 more minutes while seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta and broccoli. Toss everything together, gradually adding reserved pasta water until the sauce evenly coats the pasta.
- Finally, fold in the Parmesan cheese along with chopped parsley and chives. Serve hot, and sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top.
Notes
For a creamy version, stir in a touch of heavy cream while making the sauce. Marinating the chicken with lemon juice and Cajun seasoning before cooking enhances the flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American