Description
A delightful dish that combines tender chicken, bowtie pasta, and vibrant broccoli in a creamy, garlicky sauce with a zesty lemon finish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a hearty boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- Add Broccoli: Toss in the broccoli florets during the last three minutes of cooking, then drain and set aside.
- Season the Chicken: In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6 to 7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Create the Sauce: Lower the heat, add unsalted butter to the skillet, and cook the garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Mix in the Flavors: Stir in red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine Everything: Return the chicken and add the cooked pasta and broccoli. Toss well to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
- Finish with Cheese: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and gooey.
- Serve: Dish up warm, garnish with additional Parmesan and fresh herbs.
Notes
Consider using air fryer for a healthier version or substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Cowboy Butter, Lemon Chicken, Bowtie Pasta, Broccoli, Comfort Food