Lemon Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta with Broccoli – Easy One Pan Weeknight Dinner
Lemon Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta with Broccoli
This Lemon Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta brings together tangy citrus flavors with rich garlic butter in a comforting one-pan dinner that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines tender chicken breast, al dente bowtie pasta, and fresh broccoli florets in a creamy lemon garlic butter sauce that will become an instant family favorite.
If you love quick pasta dishes, you’ll also enjoy our Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole for another delicious weeknight option.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Cook Chicken and Broccoli
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken cubes and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Add broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking to steam them slightly.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Cowboy Butter Sauce
Push chicken and broccoli to one side of the skillet. Add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the empty space. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with lemon zest, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Expert Tips
- Don’t overcook the broccoli: Adding it during the last few minutes of chicken cooking keeps it crisp-tender
- Use fresh lemon: Fresh lemon juice provides brighter flavor than bottled
- Reserve pasta water: The starchy water helps create a creamy, cohesive sauce
- Customize the heat: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
This lemon butter chicken pasta is similar to our popular Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce but with a bright citrus twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein?
Yes! Shrimp or sliced sausage work well as alternatives to chicken in this recipe.
How long does leftovers last?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream.
Can I make this ahead of time?
The components can be prepped ahead, but it’s best served fresh for optimal texture. For meal prep, consider making this Instant Pot Chicken and Rice recipe instead.
What makes it “cowboy butter” style?
The cowboy butter flavor comes from the combination of garlic, herbs, and lemon with rich butter – creating a bold, rustic flavor profile perfect for hearty dishes.
Lemon Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta with Broccoli
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken cubes and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Add broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking to steam them slightly.
- Push chicken and broccoli to one side of the skillet. Add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the empty space. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with lemon zest, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
