Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli Recipe
If you’re looking for a quick, comforting, and flavorful dinner, this Butter Lemon Bowtie Chicken with Broccoli is the perfect choice. Tender chicken, bright lemon flavor, buttery sauce, and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta come together in one delicious dish. It’s easy enough for busy weeknights but tasty enough to impress family and guests.
The combination of garlic butter, fresh lemon juice, juicy chicken, and broccoli creates a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Plus, it’s ready in about 30 minutes, making it a perfect go-to recipe.
Ingredients
12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat.
- Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook for about 6–8 minutes until the chicken is golden and fully cooked.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Let the sauce simmer for about 3–4 minutes to slightly reduce.
- Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet and toss everything together so the pasta is well coated with the buttery lemon sauce.
- Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and gently mix until melted and creamy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Tips for the Best Flavor
Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for a brighter taste.
Don’t overcook the broccoli so it stays vibrant and slightly crisp.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
You can also substitute shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to bring back the creamy texture.
