Description
A delightful pasta dish featuring tender chicken, colorful broccoli, and bowtie pasta in a creamy lemon sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
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
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 12 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 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
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, adding broccoli in the last 2-3 minutes. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
- Season the chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Make the sauce by melting butter in the same skillet, adding garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1 minute. Stir in Dijon, lemon juice, and zest, seasoning to taste.
- Combine the chicken, drained pasta, and broccoli in the skillet, tossing together and adding reserved pasta water until well coated.
- Finish with grated Parmesan, parsley, and chives. Serve hot with additional Parmesan if desired.
Notes
For a spicier version, increase red pepper flakes; for a lighter meal, reduce butter and use broth instead.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American