Cowboy butter lemon bowtie chicken with broccoli brings a delightful combination of flavors to your table. This dish features tender chicken, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, and vibrant broccoli, all smothered in a rich, buttery sauce infused with a zesty kick. Not only does it taste amazing, but it also offers a quick and satisfying dinner option for busy weeknights. You’ll love how the bright notes of lemon elevate each bite while the creamy texture coats everything beautifully.
Why We Love This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
This cowboy butter lemon bowtie chicken with broccoli stands out due to its incredible balance of flavors and textures. The crispy chicken pieces paired with al dente bowtie pasta create a satisfying meal that pleases everyone at the table. The lemon adds a refreshing twist, cutting through the richness of the butter and ensuring that each bite is nothing short of heavenly. Additionally, broccoli not only enhances the nutritional value of the dish but also adds a lovely crunch, creating a colorful plate that entices the eye. This dish encapsulates comfort food with a gourmet flair, making it perfect for both family dinners and special gatherings. You will appreciate how quickly the recipe comes together, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients for Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz bowtie pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Start by cooking the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions. Add the broccoli florets to the pasta water during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika on both sides.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- In the same skillet, lower the heat, add the remaining butter, and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the lemon juice and zest to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Return the cooked bowtie pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together in the buttery lemon sauce, ensuring even coating.
- Slice the rested chicken and place it on top of the pasta and broccoli mixture.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to Serve Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
Serving cowboy butter lemon bowtie chicken with broccoli is simple yet elegant. Begin by placing a generous portion of the pasta and broccoli mixture onto each plate. Then, elegantly arrange slices of the chicken on top, showcasing the golden color and juicy texture. As a finishing touch, drizzle extra lemon butter sauce from the skillet over the chicken and pasta if you desire more flavor. You might also consider serving this dish with freshly baked bread on the side, perfect for sopping up any remaining sauce. A light green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette works nicely too, adding freshness and balance to your meal. You can elevate the dining experience by using colorful plates and serving utensils to make the dish visually appealing. Encourage guests to sprinkle a little more fresh parsley on top before digging in for an added pop of color and flavor.
Expert Tips for Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
To make your cowboy butter lemon bowtie chicken with broccoli truly shine, consider these expert tips. First, always taste the sauce before serving, adjusting the seasoning to your liking. You might want to add more lemon juice or zest for a brighter flavor or a pinch of salt to enhance the taste. When cooking the chicken, ensure that the skillet is hot enough before adding the meat to achieve a nice sear. Let the chicken rest after cooking; this step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy bite every time. For the broccoli, try to keep the florets vibrant by cooking them for only a few minutes. If you prefer a slightly charred flavor, you can roast the broccoli in the oven instead of boiling it. Lastly, leftovers can be jazzed up by adding a handful of cheese or crushed red pepper for a different twist. These small adjustments can transform your dish and make it even more enjoyable.
How to Store Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
Storing cowboy butter lemon bowtie chicken with broccoli is straightforward and helps maintain its deliciousness. First, allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. The dish can last in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the meal. Ensure you separate the pasta and chicken into smaller portions before placing them in freezer-safe bags or containers, as this makes reheating easier. When stored properly, it can last in the freezer for up to two months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then heat in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through. You can also add a splash of broth to revive the sauce’s flavor and consistency during reheating.
Variations of Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
While the recipe for cowboy butter lemon bowtie chicken with broccoli is delicious as is, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. If you want a little extra protein, consider adding shrimp or tofu instead of chicken. Both options will absorb the buttery lemon sauce beautifully. You can also alter the types of vegetables you use; feel free to toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or even asparagus for a seasonal twist. If you’re looking for a lighter version, replace the bowtie pasta with whole grain or gluten-free pasta. For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream to the butter before mixing it with the pasta and broccoli. To spice things up, include a pinch of chili flakes or fresh herbs like basil or cilantro. Each variation brings a new dimension to this classic dish, making it versatile for any meal.
FAQ about Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
What is cowboy butter lemon bowtie chicken with broccoli?
Cowboy butter lemon bowtie chicken with broccoli is a delicious dish featuring chicken, bowtie pasta, and broccoli, all tossed in a rich lemon butter sauce.
How long does it take to prepare cowboy butter lemon bowtie chicken with broccoli?
It typically takes around 30-40 minutes to prepare and cook cowboy butter lemon bowtie chicken with broccoli, making it ideal for a quick dinner.
Can I make cowboy butter lemon bowtie chicken with broccoli in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance. Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to three days.
What can I serve with cowboy butter lemon bowtie chicken with broccoli?
This dish pairs well with a light salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables, adding freshness to your meal.
Is it possible to freeze cowboy butter lemon bowtie chicken with broccoli?
Yes, you can freeze the dish. Just separate the portions and store them in freezer-safe containers for up to two months.
Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz bowtie pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter divided
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- to taste Salt and pepper
- for garnish Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions. Add the broccoli florets to the pasta water during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika on both sides.
Cooking
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- In the same skillet, lower the heat, add the remaining butter, and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the lemon juice and zest to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Return the cooked bowtie pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together in the buttery lemon sauce, ensuring even coating.
- Slice the rested chicken and place it on top of the pasta and broccoli mixture.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
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