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Ultimate Lemon Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta with Broccoli

This lemon cowboy butter chicken pasta brings together bright citrus flavors with a rich garlic butter sauce coating tender chicken, bowtie pasta, and broccoli florets. As a one-pan dinner recipe, it's perfect for busy weeknights and combines zesty lemon, savory garlic butter, and creamy sauce that appeals to both kids and adults.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 650
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 lb boneless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 8 oz bowtie pasta
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Zest and juice of 2 lemons
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions, adding the broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, season chicken cubes with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add lemon zest, oregano, and red pepper flakes, stirring constantly.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
  5. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with the drained pasta and broccoli. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes to heat through.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Use freshly squeezed lemon juice rather than bottled for the brightest citrus flavor. The lemon zest adds essential oils that enhance the overall taste. For a thicker sauce, add an extra tablespoon of Parmesan cheese or let the sauce simmer for an additional minute.