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Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Pasta with Broccoli | Flavorful Family-Friendly Dinner Recipe

February 22, 2026February 22, 2026 by ibro

Say goodbye to dinner ruts! The Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Pasta with Broccoli | Flavorful Family-Friendly Dinner Recipe is a vibrant, zesty hero for your table. It blends tender chicken, bright lemon, creamy butter, fun pasta, and crisp broccoli for an easy, delightful family meal. Its vibrant colors and inviting aroma instantly elevate your dinner table, making mealtime a truly joyful experience for everyone. Experience a symphony of zesty lemon, savory herbs, and rich butter, perfectly complementing tender chicken and fresh broccoli. This recipe comes together effortlessly, transforming simple ingredients into a gourmet-tasting meal with minimal fuss and time. Incredibly versatile, easily adapt this dish with different vegetables or protein, ensuring it’s always a fresh family favorite. Have you ever found yourself staring into the abyss of an open refrigerator, wondering if the universe has a secret stash of inspiring dinner ideas it’s just not sharing with *you*? We’ve all been there, battling the dreaded “what’s for dinner?” dilemma that can feel more intimidating than a rodeo bull. Well, partner, dust off your apron because your culinary cavalry has arrived! This isn’t just any weeknight meal; it’s an adventure on a plate, a zesty, savory, utterly comforting dish that’s so good, it might just inspire you to wear a bandana while cooking. Seriously, the aroma alone will have the entire household moseying into the kitchen, forks at the ready, eager for a taste of this flavorful family-friendly dinner recipe. This dish takes the beloved concept of “cowboy butter” – a rich, herby, garlic-infused butter often paired with steaks – and reimagines it for pasta, creating a sauce that’s both decadently creamy and wonderfully bright with lemon. The bowtie pasta, with its playful shape, acts as the perfect vehicle, scooping up every last drop of that incredible sauce, while the tender chicken provides satisfying protein. And let’s not forget the broccoli, bringing a burst of green goodness and a delightful crunch to balance the richness. It’s a meal that feels special enough for a gathering but is deceptively simple to prepare after a long day of wrangling whatever your day throws at you. Prepare for a chorus of “oohs” and “aahs” – perhaps even a few “yeehaws!” – around your dinner table tonight.

Ingredients for Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Pasta with Broccoli | Flavorful Family-Friendly Dinner Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken BreastsChoose high-quality chicken for the best flavor and texture; cut them into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle)This fun shape holds the sauce beautifully, but any medium-sized pasta like penne or rotini will also work well.
Broccoli FloretsFresh broccoli florets are best for their vibrant color and crisp-tender texture; frozen can be used if thawed and drained.
Unsalted ButterThe star of our “cowboy butter” sauce, providing richness and a silky base; using unsalted allows you to control the sodium.
Olive OilA good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavor and helps brown the chicken and sauté the garlic.
Fresh GarlicMinced garlic cloves are essential for the aromatic foundation of the sauce, adding depth and a pungent kick.
LemonYou’ll need both the zest and juice from a fresh lemon to brighten the dish with a tangy, citrusy finish.
Chicken BrothLow-sodium chicken broth adds liquid to the sauce, ensuring it’s smooth and flavorful without being too rich.
Fresh ParsleyChopped fresh parsley provides a touch of herbaceous freshness and a beautiful green garnish.
Smoked PaprikaThis spice adds a subtle smoky depth and a beautiful reddish hue to the cowboy butter sauce.
Red Pepper FlakesA pinch of red pepper flakes introduces a gentle warmth and a hint of spice, easily adjustable to your preference.
Dried OreganoEarthy and aromatic, dried oregano complements the other herbs and spices in the rich butter sauce.
Salt and Black PepperEssential seasonings to enhance all the flavors in the dish; season to taste throughout the cooking process.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. Before you even think about firing up the stove, let’s talk prep. This recipe is designed to be straightforward, but a little mise en place goes a long way. Have your chicken cut, your broccoli florets ready, and your garlic minced. Trust me, future you will thank present you for this small act of kindness. The magic of this dish truly lies in the harmony of its simple components, each playing a vital role in creating that unforgettable taste experience. And don’t fret about perfection; cooking should be fun, a little messy, and always delicious. Let’s get this delicious Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Pasta with Broccoli | Flavorful Family-Friendly Dinner Recipe on the table!

How to Make Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Pasta with Broccoli | Flavorful Family-Friendly Dinner Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prep the Chicken and Broccoli

Begin by patting your chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Season them generously with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are golden brown on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets and a splash of water, cooking them until they are crisp-tender and bright green, about 3-5 minutes. You want them tender but still with a slight bite. Remove the broccoli and set it aside with the chicken.

Step 2: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, which typically takes 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve about one cup of the starchy pasta water. This liquid is gold; it will help create a silky, emulsified sauce later on. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside.

Step 3: Craft the Cowboy Butter Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium-low in your large skillet. Add the unsalted butter and let it melt until it’s fragrant and bubbling gently. Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and dried oregano. Sauté for about 1 minute, just until the garlic becomes aromatic, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the chicken broth and the freshly squeezed lemon juice, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir well to combine all the flavors.

Step 4: Combine Everything for Flavor

Return the cooked chicken and broccoli to the skillet with the simmering cowboy butter sauce. Add the cooked bowtie pasta. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the pasta, chicken, and broccoli are thoroughly coated in the rich, zesty sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. Continue to gently stir for another minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and the pasta to absorb some of the delicious sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh lemon zest and the chopped fresh parsley. Give it one final, gentle toss. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to your preference.

Customizing Your Cowboy Pasta Creation

The beauty of this Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Pasta is its incredible adaptability. Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey breast or even lamb. For a vegetarian twist, consider adding hearty chickpeas, white beans, or sliced mushrooms in place of the meat, ensuring you maintain that rich flavor profile. You can also experiment with different vegetables; bell peppers, asparagus, or spinach would all be fantastic additions. Simply add them to the skillet after the broccoli, adjusting cooking times as needed to achieve that perfect crisp-tender bite. Don’t be shy about playing with the herbs either—a sprinkle of fresh thyme or chives can add another layer of aromatic goodness to your dish.

Storing and Reheating Tips for Leftovers

Should you be lucky enough to have any leftovers of this delectable dish, they store wonderfully. Transfer any remaining Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, or in the microwave. If the pasta seems a little dry, add a splash of chicken broth or even a tiny bit of water to help loosen the sauce and bring back its creamy texture. This ensures every bite is just as satisfying as the first. So there you have it, folks! A dish that’s more than just a meal; it’s a moment of pure, unadulterated comfort and flavor. The Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Pasta with Broccoli is your ticket to a stress-free, smile-inducing dinner that truly delivers on taste and simplicity. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight crowd or simply treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire. Go ahead, give it a whirl, and prepare to be lassoed by its irresistible charm. Happy cooking, and may your plates always be full of deliciousness!

The Accidental Discovery of Sunshine on a Plate

One dreary Tuesday, I cobbled together leftovers and a lemon, hoping for something edible. What emerged was this bright, zesty Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Pasta with Broccoli, a dish so unexpectedly vibrant it felt like sunshine bottled. My family devoured it, demanding it become a staple – a truly delightful surprise! Once upon a time, my kitchen resembled a culinary war zone more often than a peaceful haven of delicious aromas. I’m talking about those nights when dinner felt less like a joy and more like a mandatory chore, a frantic scramble against the clock and the rumbling stomachs of my hungry horde. But then, a stroke of pure, unadulterated genius (or perhaps just sheer desperation) led me to combine some pantry staples with a vibrant burst of lemon and a kick of spice. The result? A flavor explosion so profound, so utterly delightful, that it transformed even the most skeptical eaters at my table into eager connoisseurs. This, my friends, is the tale of how the Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Pasta with Broccoli, a truly flavorful family-friendly dinner recipe, came to save my weeknights and possibly my sanity. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Imagine tender, juicy chicken, perfectly seared and bathed in a luscious, herby, garlicky, and unapologetically buttery sauce with a bright lemon zing. Tossed with al dente bowtie pasta and crisp-tender broccoli florets, every bite is a symphony of textures and tastes. It’s hearty enough to satisfy the biggest appetites, yet fresh and lively enough to brighten any day. This is the kind of dish that makes you want to hum a happy tune while you eat, possibly even do a little two-step in the kitchen. And the best part? It’s surprisingly simple to pull off, even on the busiest of weeknights. Forget complicated culinary acrobatics; this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of go-to family meals.

Unleashing the Cowboy Butter Magic

The secret weapon in this pasta dish is undoubtedly the “Cowboy Butter.” If you haven’t encountered this liquid gold before, prepare to have your mind, and your taste buds, utterly blown. It’s not just butter; it’s butter elevated to an art form, infused with a medley of herbs, garlic, a touch of heat, and that essential squeeze of lemon. This incredible condiment typically graces steaks and seafood, but trust me when I say it finds its true calling coating tender chicken and pasta. The rich, savory notes from the herbs and garlic meld seamlessly with the bright acidity of the lemon, creating a sauce that is both comforting and exhilarating. It’s the kind of sauce that makes you wonder where it’s been all your life, and once you try it, you’ll want to slather it on everything. This flavorful family-friendly dinner recipe truly shines because of it.

Why This Dish Belongs in Your Repertoire

Beyond its incredible taste, the Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Pasta with Broccoli ticks all the boxes for an ideal family meal. It’s packed with lean protein from the chicken, essential greens from the broccoli, and satisfying carbohydrates from the pasta, ensuring a well-rounded and nutritious plate. Plus, it’s highly customizable, meaning you can easily adapt it to suit varying tastes or what you have on hand. Kids love the fun shape of the bowtie pasta, and the vibrant flavors are usually a hit across all age groups. It’s one of those rare dishes that manages to be both exciting for adults and comforting for children, making dinner time a little less of a negotiation and a lot more of a celebration. Preparing this Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Pasta is a joyous culinary journey.

Ingredients for Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Pasta with Broccoli | Flavorful Family-Friendly Dinner Recipe

Gathering your ingredients is the first step on your journey to culinary bliss. Ensure everything is fresh and ready to make this Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Pasta truly sing.

For the Pasta Dish:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 pound bowtie pasta (farfalle)
4 cups fresh broccoli florets
½ cup chicken broth (low sodium)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

For the Cowboy Butter:

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh chives, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions: Crafting Your Flavorful Family-Friendly Dinner

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to bring your Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Pasta with Broccoli to life.

Prepping Your Stars

First, pat your chicken cubes dry. This helps achieve a beautiful sear. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Set aside while you prepare other components. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. During the last 3 minutes of the pasta cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the pot. This ensures both are perfectly cooked simultaneously. Drain the pasta and broccoli, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water, then set aside.

The Cowboy Butter Magic

While the pasta cooks, melt half of the softened butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sear for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low. Add the remaining softened butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic, chives, minced parsley, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. This is your luscious Cowboy Butter.

Bringing It All Together

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the Cowboy Butter sauce. Add the drained bowtie pasta and broccoli florets. Pour in the ½ cup of chicken broth and the reserved pasta water. Toss everything gently to ensure the pasta, chicken, and broccoli are thoroughly coated in the delectable Cowboy Butter sauce. Allow it to simmer for 1-2 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the sauce thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to your preference. Serve immediately, garnished generously with fresh chopped parsley. This vibrant Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Pasta with Broccoli is sure to be a hit.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

For peak efficiency, sear your chicken until golden first. While it rests, get your bowtie pasta and broccoli bubbling. Simultaneously, whisk together that incredible cowboy butter sauce. This synchronized dance ensures every component is perfectly cooked and ready to mingle harmoniously for maximum flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken for tender beef strips or even lamb. Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne, or add roasted red peppers for extra sweetness. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or crispy fried onions also provides a delightful textural contrast to this Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Pasta.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers of your Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Pasta with Broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to revive its creamy texture and zesty flavor.

Chef’s Essential Tips for a Flawless Dish

Always pat your chicken dry before searing; this crucial step helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown crust and locks in the juiciness.
Don’t overcook the pasta! Al dente is key for this dish, as it will continue to absorb sauce without becoming mushy, maintaining its perfect texture.
Reserve some pasta water; its starchy goodness helps emulsify the Cowboy Butter sauce, making it extra silky and ensuring it clings beautifully to every component.

My niece, who typically shies away from anything green, actually asked for seconds of this dish, proclaiming the “sauce magic.” It was a proud aunt moment, proving that a flavorful family-friendly dinner recipe can win over even the pickiest eaters!

Conclusion for Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Pasta with Broccoli | Flavorful Family-Friendly Dinner Recipe

This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken Pasta with Broccoli truly delivers on its promise of a flavorful family-friendly dinner recipe. With its vibrant, zesty Cowboy Butter sauce generously coating tender chicken, al dente pasta, and crisp broccoli, it’s a meal that consistently brings smiles to the table. It’s simple to prepare, bursting with incredible flavors, and wonderfully versatile, allowing for personalized touches. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a weeknight warrior, this dish offers a delightful escape from mundane dinners. Embrace the joy of cooking and savor every delicious bite of this magnificent pasta creation!