Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken

Some dinners feel like they carry a little family history in every bite. Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken is that kind of meal, the kind that fills the kitchen with garlic, butter, lemon, herbs, and the comforting sound of pasta being tossed in a skillet.

This dish brings together bite-sized chicken, bowtie pasta, broccoli, Parmesan cheese, and a bold cowboy butter-inspired lemon sauce. It is rich without feeling too heavy, zesty without being sharp, and cozy enough to earn a place in your regular dinner rotation.

I always think of family kitchens when I make a meal like this. The kind where someone is stirring at the stove, someone else is setting the table, and everyone seems to arrive before dinner is officially ready because the smell is too good to ignore.

The sauce is what makes this recipe memorable. Butter melts with garlic, crushed red pepper flakes if you want a little heat, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, chives, Parmesan, and pasta water until it becomes glossy and clingy.

The chicken gets seasoned with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper before it is browned in olive oil. That seasoning gives the dish warmth, color, and just enough bold flavor to stand up to the butter and lemon.

Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken is perfect for busy weeknights, spring dinners, family meals, casual gatherings, and meal prep. It feels special, but it does not ask you to spend hours in the kitchen.

What Is Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken?

Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken is a creamy, buttery pasta dinner made with seasoned chicken, farfalle pasta, broccoli florets, and a lemon garlic butter sauce. The sauce is finished with fresh herbs, Parmesan cheese, and reserved pasta water so it coats every piece of chicken, pasta, and broccoli.

The chicken is cut into bite-sized pieces and seasoned with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. It is cooked in olive oil until browned and fully cooked.

The pasta and broccoli cook together in the same pot, with the broccoli added during the last 3 minutes. This keeps the broccoli vibrant and tender without making it too soft.

The sauce is made in the same skillet used for the chicken. Butter, garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, optional red pepper flakes, herbs, Parmesan, and pasta water create a rich sauce with a fresh citrus lift.

Why You’ll Love Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken

This recipe is quick and easy enough for busy weeknights. The steps are simple, and the dish comes together without complicated techniques.

It has family-friendly flavors. Garlic butter, pasta, chicken, broccoli, lemon, herbs, and Parmesan make a meal that feels familiar but still exciting.

It uses minimal ingredients in a smart way. A handful of seasonings, butter, lemon, pasta, chicken, and broccoli become a full dinner.

It is versatile for leftovers and meal prep. The dish can be stored in the refrigerator or frozen in individual portions.

The sauce is creamy, zesty, buttery, and comforting. Reserved pasta water helps it cling to the bowtie pasta instead of sitting at the bottom of the skillet.

It can be customized with vegetables, proteins, herbs, pasta swaps, dairy-free ingredients, or gluten-free pasta. That makes it easy to adjust for different preferences.

Recipe Details

• Recipe name: Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken
• Main protein: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Pasta: Bowtie pasta, also called farfalle
• Vegetable: Broccoli florets
• Sauce: Cowboy butter-style lemon garlic sauce
• Chicken cook time: About 7-10 minutes
• Chicken doneness: Internal temperature of 165°F
• Pasta cook time: Usually about 8-10 minutes, according to package instructions
• Broccoli timing: Add during the last 3 minutes of pasta cooking
• Reserved pasta water: ½ cup
• Best served: Hot
• Storage: Airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Freezer-friendly: Yes, individual portions for up to 2 months
• Dairy-free option: Use dairy-free butter and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoon olive oil

For the Cowboy Butter Lemon Sauce

• 6 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped

For the Pasta and Broccoli

• 12 oz bowtie pasta
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• ½ cup reserved pasta water
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping

A Closer Look at the Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts make this dish hearty and protein-rich. Cutting them into bite-sized pieces helps them cook quickly and makes every forkful easy to eat.

Cajun seasoning gives the chicken bold flavor. It adds warmth and a little savory spice without needing a long marinade.

Garlic powder supports the fresh garlic in the sauce. It seasons the chicken from the beginning and adds another layer of flavor.

Smoked paprika gives color and a gentle smoky note. It helps the chicken taste richer and more rounded.

Salt and black pepper help bring out the flavor of the chicken, pasta, broccoli, and sauce. Season to taste and adjust at the end if needed.

Olive oil is used to cook the chicken. It helps the pieces brown and keeps them from sticking.

Unsalted butter is the base of the cowboy butter lemon sauce. Since it is unsalted, you can control the seasoning more easily.

Fresh minced garlic gives the sauce its deep savory aroma. It cooks briefly in the butter until fragrant.

Crushed red pepper flakes are optional. They add a little heat if you want the dish to have a spicier edge.

Dijon mustard adds tang and helps the butter sauce taste more complex. It works beautifully with lemon and garlic.

Lemon juice and zest bring brightness. The juice adds fresh acidity, while the zest adds fragrant citrus flavor.

Fresh parsley and chives make the sauce taste brighter and fresher. They also add color to the finished pasta.

Bowtie pasta, or farfalle, holds the sauce well and makes the dish feel fun. Its shape catches bits of chicken, herbs, and Parmesan.

Broccoli florets add color, texture, and freshness. Cooking them with the pasta keeps the method simple.

Reserved pasta water is important because it helps loosen and emulsify the sauce. The starch in the water helps the sauce cling to the pasta.

Grated Parmesan cheese adds salty richness and helps the sauce become creamy. Extra Parmesan can be sprinkled on top before serving.

The Flavor Behind This Dish

Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken is all about balance. The butter gives richness, the lemon adds brightness, the Dijon adds tang, and the garlic makes the whole skillet smell irresistible.

The chicken brings savory flavor from the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Once browned, it adds heartiness to the pasta.

The broccoli keeps the dish from feeling too rich. Its green freshness balances the buttery sauce and makes the plate feel complete.

Bowtie pasta is especially nice here because the shape catches sauce in every fold. That means each bite gets some lemon butter, Parmesan, herbs, chicken, and broccoli.

The reserved pasta water is what pulls everything together. It turns melted butter, lemon, and cheese into a sauce that coats instead of separates.

Directions

Step 1: Gather the Ingredients

Start by gathering the chicken, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, olive oil, butter, garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, lemon, parsley, chives, bowtie pasta, broccoli, pasta water, and Parmesan cheese. You will also need a large skillet, a large pot, a cutting board, a knife, and a colander.

This recipe moves smoothly when the ingredients are ready before cooking begins. The chicken, pasta, broccoli, and sauce all come together quickly once the heat is on.

Chop the parsley and chives, mince the garlic, zest and juice the lemon, and cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Having these steps finished early helps prevent rushing later.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Cut 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Try to keep the pieces similar in size so they cook evenly.

Smaller pieces are helpful because they brown quickly and mix easily with the pasta. They also make the finished dish easier to serve.

Place the chicken pieces in a bowl or on a plate. They are ready to season.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Sprinkle the chicken with 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, and salt and black pepper to taste. Toss until the seasoning coats the chicken evenly.

Make sure every piece gets some seasoning. This gives the chicken flavor before it ever touches the sauce.

For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the spices for 30 minutes before cooking. This helpful note is optional but gives the chicken more time to absorb the seasoning.

Step 4: Heat the Olive Oil

Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoon olive oil and let it heat.

The oil should be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles when it hits the pan. This helps the chicken brown properly.

Do not add the chicken too early. A properly heated skillet gives better color and flavor.

Step 5: Add the Chicken to the Skillet

Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet in a single layer. Try not to overcrowd the pan.

If the chicken is piled on top of itself, it may steam instead of brown. Cook in batches if needed.

Let the chicken sit briefly before stirring. This helps the first side develop color.

Step 6: Cook the Chicken

Cook the chicken for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The pieces should become nicely browned and cooked through.

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. It should no longer be pink in the center.

Once cooked, keep the chicken ready for combining later. If needed, transfer it to a plate while you prepare the sauce.

Step 7: Boil the Pasta Water

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Use enough water for the pasta to move freely.

Salted water gives the pasta its first layer of seasoning. This helps the finished dish taste better.

Let the water reach a full boil before adding the pasta. This helps the bowties cook evenly.

Step 8: Add the Bowtie Pasta

Add 12 oz bowtie pasta to the boiling water. Stir gently so the pieces do not stick together.

Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. The pasta should be tender but still have a little firmness.

Do not overcook the pasta. It will be tossed in the sauce later, so al dente texture is best.

Step 9: Add the Broccoli During the Last 3 Minutes

During the last 3 minutes of pasta cooking, add 2 cups broccoli florets to the same pot. This keeps the method easy and saves time.

The broccoli should become vibrant and tender without losing all of its crunch. Three minutes is enough to soften it while keeping color.

Stir gently after adding the broccoli. This helps it cook evenly with the pasta.

Step 10: Reserve Pasta Water

Before draining the pasta and broccoli, carefully reserve ½ cup pasta water. This starchy liquid is important for the sauce.

Reserved pasta water helps the butter, lemon, and Parmesan come together. It also loosens the sauce so it coats the pasta.

Set the pasta water aside near the skillet. You will use it when combining everything.

Step 11: Drain the Pasta and Broccoli

Drain the bowtie pasta and broccoli in a colander. Do not rinse them.

Rinsing would remove the starch that helps the sauce cling. Keeping the pasta warm and starchy is helpful.

Set the drained pasta and broccoli aside while you make the sauce. They will go into the skillet soon.

Step 12: Melt the Butter

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt 6 tablespoon unsalted butter over medium heat. Let it bubble gently.

Using the same skillet keeps the chicken flavor in the sauce. Those browned bits add depth.

Let the butter become golden, but do not let it burn. It should smell rich and warm.

Step 13: Add the Garlic

Add 4 cloves minced garlic to the melted butter. Sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant.

Stir often because garlic can burn quickly. Burnt garlic can make the sauce taste bitter.

The garlic should smell savory and buttery. This is the base of the cowboy butter-style sauce.

Step 14: Add Optional Red Pepper Flakes

If using heat, add ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes. Stir them into the garlic butter.

This step is optional and can be adjusted to taste. Use less for mild heat or skip it completely.

The red pepper flakes give the sauce a gentle kick. They pair well with lemon and butter.

Step 15: Add Dijon Mustard

Stir in 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard. Mix until it blends into the butter.

Dijon mustard adds tang and helps the sauce taste more layered. It also works beautifully with lemon.

Make sure it is fully incorporated. The sauce should look glossy and smooth.

Step 16: Add Lemon Juice and Zest

Add the juice and zest of 1 lemon to the skillet. Stir well.

The lemon juice brightens the butter sauce. The zest adds a fresh citrus aroma.

Let the lemon mix into the butter for a moment. This creates the zesty side of the cowboy butter sauce.

Step 17: Season the Sauce

Add a pinch of salt and black pepper to the sauce. Stir and taste carefully.

Remember that Parmesan and pasta water can add saltiness later. Start lightly and adjust after everything is combined.

The sauce should taste buttery, garlicky, lemony, and savory. It should be bold but balanced.

Step 18: Return the Chicken to the Skillet

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet if you removed it earlier. Stir it into the lemon butter sauce.

The chicken should become coated with the sauce. This helps the seasoning and butter flavor blend together.

Let it warm briefly in the sauce. Do not cook it too long, or the chicken can become dry.

Step 19: Add the Pasta and Broccoli

Add the drained bowtie pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Use a large spoon or tongs to combine everything.

Toss gently so the pasta does not break and the broccoli stays intact. The goal is to coat everything in sauce.

At this point, the skillet should look full, colorful, and glossy. The dish is ready for pasta water and cheese.

Step 20: Add Reserved Pasta Water

Pour in ½ cup reserved pasta water. Toss everything together.

The starchy water helps create a luscious sauce that clings to the pasta. It also loosens the butter sauce so it spreads evenly.

If the sauce still feels too thick, add a tiny splash more liquid if available. If it feels too loose, toss a little longer.

Step 21: Add Fresh Herbs

Stir in 2 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley and 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives. Toss gently.

The herbs add freshness, color, and a light spring-like flavor. They make the buttery dish feel brighter.

Add them near the end so they stay fresh. Overcooking herbs can dull their flavor.

Step 22: Add Parmesan Cheese

Sprinkle in ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese. Toss gently so it melts into the sauce.

The Parmesan adds richness and helps the sauce become creamy. It should blend with the butter and pasta water.

Make sure the cheese is distributed evenly. You want every serving to have that savory finish.

Step 23: Adjust the Seasoning

Taste the pasta and adjust with more salt and black pepper if needed. Season carefully because the Parmesan adds salt.

If you want more brightness, a little extra lemon zest can help. If you want more heat, add a tiny pinch of red pepper flakes.

The final flavor should be buttery, garlicky, lightly smoky, lemony, and savory. The sauce should coat the chicken, pasta, and broccoli.

Step 24: Serve Hot

Serve the Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken hot. Spoon it into bowls or onto plates while the sauce is still glossy.

Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese if desired. This adds richness and makes the dish feel complete.

Serve immediately for the best texture. The sauce is at its best when warm and freshly tossed.

Helpful Tips for the Best Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken

Cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces. This helps it cook at the same rate.

Cook the chicken in a single layer. Browning adds flavor and improves texture.

Do not rinse the pasta after draining. The starch helps the sauce cling.

Reserve the pasta water before draining. It is one of the most important parts of the sauce.

Add the broccoli during the last 3 minutes of pasta cooking. This keeps it bright and tender.

Use less butter and add a splash of chicken broth for a lighter dish. This keeps the sauce flavorful while reducing richness.

Common Mistakes

Forgetting to Reserve Pasta Water

Reserved pasta water helps the sauce come together. Without it, the butter and Parmesan may not coat the pasta as smoothly.

Always scoop out ½ cup before draining. Set it beside the skillet so it is ready.

Overcooking the Broccoli

Broccoli only needs the last 3 minutes of pasta cooking. Longer cooking can make it too soft.

You want the florets vibrant and tender with a little bite. This keeps the dish fresh.

Burning the Garlic

Garlic cooks quickly in butter. If it burns, it can make the sauce taste bitter.

Sauté it for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Stir often and keep the heat moderate.

Overcrowding the Chicken

Chicken needs space to brown. If the pan is crowded, it may steam.

Cook in batches if needed. A good sear makes the dish more flavorful.

Adding Parmesan Too Early

Parmesan is best added near the end. This helps it melt into the warm sauce without clumping.

Toss gently as you add it. The pasta water helps it blend smoothly.

Variations

Swap the bowtie pasta for zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. The texture will change, but the lemon butter flavor still works.

Add seasonal vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes for a fresh twist. These additions bring color and brightness.

Incorporate cooked shrimp or sausage for a heartier meal. Both options pair well with the cowboy butter lemon sauce.

For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free butter and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. This keeps the sauce rich and savory.

Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme. Each herb gives the dish a slightly different personality.

Add bell peppers or snap peas for more vegetables. They bring color and crunch.

Use avocado oil instead of olive oil for a different taste. It works well for cooking the chicken.

Use gluten-free pasta if avoiding gluten. Cook according to the package instructions.

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the spices for 30 minutes before cooking. This gives the seasoning more time to settle into the meat.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken hot with extra Parmesan on top. The warm sauce and cheese make each bite rich and comforting.

A crisp green salad is a wonderful side. It balances the buttery pasta with freshness.

Garlic bread also pairs well. It is perfect for catching any extra lemon butter sauce.

This dish works for a cozy family dinner. It also looks beautiful enough for a gathering with friends.

Serve it family-style from a large skillet or bowl. That makes it feel warm and inviting.

If you want a lighter meal, use smaller portions and add more vegetables or salad on the side. The sauce is flavorful enough that a little goes a long way.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let the pasta cool before sealing.

The sauce may thicken as it sits. This is normal because pasta continues absorbing liquid.

Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Stir gently while reheating. This helps the sauce coat the pasta again.

Avoid overheating the chicken. Gentle reheating keeps it more tender.

Freezing Instructions

Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken can be frozen in individual portions for up to 2 months. Use airtight freezer-safe containers.

Let the dish cool completely before freezing. This helps protect texture and flavor.

Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Add a splash of water or broth while reheating if the sauce seems too thick. Toss gently until warmed through.

The pasta may soften slightly after freezing, but the flavor will still be comforting. Individual portions make quick future meals easier.

Make-Ahead Notes

You can cut and season the chicken ahead of time. For extra flavor, marinate it in the spices for 30 minutes before cooking.

You can also chop the broccoli, parsley, chives, and garlic ahead. Keep them stored properly until cooking.

The dish is best freshly tossed, but leftovers reheat well. Add water or broth to bring the sauce back.

If making this for guests, prep the ingredients early and cook close to serving time. This gives the best texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Freeze Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken?

Yes, this dish can be frozen. Store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What Can I Use Instead of Bowtie Pasta?

You can substitute bowtie pasta with any pasta shape you like. Fusilli, penne, or spaghetti all work beautifully.

Adjust the cooking time based on the pasta shape you choose. Cook until al dente.

How Do I Make It Dairy-Free?

Use dairy-free butter instead of unsalted butter. Replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

This keeps the dish dairy-free while still giving it a savory finish. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Can I Make This Gluten-Free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions.

Make sure any other packaged ingredients are safe for your needs. This keeps the whole dish gluten-free.

Can I Add More Vegetables?

Yes, bell peppers, snap peas, asparagus, and cherry tomatoes all work well. Add them based on how quickly they cook.

Broccoli is already included, but extra vegetables can make the meal more colorful. Keep the sauce balanced with the pasta amount.

Can I Use Another Protein?

Yes, cooked shrimp or sausage can be added for a heartier meal. Adjust timing so the protein does not overcook.

You can also keep the chicken and add shrimp or sausage for more variety. The lemon butter sauce pairs well with each option.

How Can I Make It Lighter?

Use less butter and add a splash of chicken broth instead. This keeps the sauce loose and flavorful.

You can also add more vegetables or serve smaller pasta portions with a salad. The dish will still feel satisfying.

Why Is Pasta Water Important?

Pasta water contains starch that helps the sauce cling to the pasta. It also loosens the butter and cheese mixture.

Without it, the sauce may feel oily or too thick. Reserve ½ cup before draining the pasta.

Final Thoughts

Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken is the kind of dinner that feels cozy, bright, and generous. It has seasoned chicken, tender bowtie pasta, broccoli, garlic butter, lemon, herbs, Parmesan, and just enough heat if you want it.

It is quick enough for a busy night but flavorful enough for a special table. The lemon keeps it fresh, the butter makes it comforting, and the herbs bring everything to life.

The recipe is also easy to make your own. You can add vegetables, swap pasta shapes, use shrimp or sausage, make it dairy-free, use gluten-free pasta, or lighten the sauce with broth.

Serve it hot with extra Parmesan, gather everyone around, and enjoy a pasta dinner that feels both familiar and full of flavor.

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Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken

This Cowboy Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken is a bold, creamy, and savory American dinner made with tender chicken bites, bowtie pasta, broccoli, Parmesan cheese, and a rich cowboy butter lemon sauce. Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, garlic, Dijon mustard, herbs, and butter give the dish deep flavor with a little heat. The bowtie pasta catches the buttery sauce beautifully, while broccoli adds freshness and texture. It is a satisfying weeknight pasta dinner that feels hearty, flavorful, and easy to serve.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Course: Dinner
• Cuisine: American
• Servings: 4 people
• Calories: 600 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Pot

Ingredients

For the Cowboy Butter Lemon Sauce

• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 6 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) Adjust to taste

For the Pasta & Veggies

• ½ cup reserved pasta water
• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese Plus extra for topping
• 2 cups broccoli florets

For the Chicken

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

Season the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 7-10 minutes, or until browned and fully cooked through.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

In a separate pot, cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions.

During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot.

Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and broccoli.

Step 3: Make the Cowboy Butter Lemon Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.

Add the minced garlic, optional crushed red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and lemon zest.

Stir until the sauce is fragrant and well combined.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked chicken, bowtie pasta, broccoli, fresh parsley, fresh chives, and reserved pasta water to the skillet.

Toss well until the pasta and chicken are coated in the cowboy butter lemon sauce.

Step 5: Add Parmesan and Season

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.

Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve

Serve warm with extra Parmesan cheese on top if desired.

Notes

Serve with extra Parmesan cheese on top if desired.

Serving Suggestions

This cowboy butter lemon bowtie chicken pairs well with:

• Garlic bread
• Caesar salad
• Roasted asparagus
• Steamed green beans
• Tomato cucumber salad
• Dinner rolls
• Extra Parmesan cheese
• Lemon wedges

Storage

How to Store

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

How to Reheat

Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Add a small splash of pasta water, broth, or cream if the sauce thickens after chilling.