Creamy, Zesty Comfort Bowl
If you’re looking for a creamy chicken pasta that’s bursting with bold flavor, this Cowboy Butter Lemon Chicken & Broccoli Pasta is pure weeknight magic. Tender golden chicken, vibrant broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta get tossed in a zesty lemon cowboy butter sauce loaded with garlic, herbs, and a touch of heat. It’s the ultimate easy dinner recipe for busy families who want something comforting but exciting. Ready in about 40 minutes, this pasta dish feels indulgent yet fresh — perfect for meal prep, cozy nights in, or impressing guests without extra effort.
⏱️ Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4–5
📝 Ingredients
- 12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ lbs), sliced
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.
- Large pot for pasta
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Colander
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Zester or fine grater
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta 🍝
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
2️⃣ Sear the Chicken
While pasta cooks, pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove and set aside.
3️⃣ Sauté the Broccoli 🥦
In the same skillet, add broccoli. Cook 4–5 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Add a splash of water if needed to help steam.
4️⃣ Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce 🤠🧈
Reduce heat to medium. Melt butter in the skillet. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, thyme, and parsley. Let simmer 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened and glossy.
5️⃣ Combine Everything 🍋
Return chicken to the skillet. Add drained pasta and reserved pasta water. Toss gently until everything is coated and the sauce clings to the pasta. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Serve immediately while warm and silky.
💡 Pro Tips
- Extra creamy option: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream for a richer sauce.
- Meal prep friendly: Store in airtight containers up to 3 days. Add a splash of broth when reheating.
- Flavor boost: Add extra lemon zest right before serving.
- Protein swap: Try grilled shrimp or sliced steak instead of chicken.
🔄 Variations
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
- Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for more color.
- Make it spicy with extra red pepper flakes.
- Top with crispy Parmesan breadcrumbs.
❓ FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes — thaw and drain well to avoid watery sauce.
What pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne holds the sauce well, but fettuccine creates a creamy texture.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, but slightly undercook the pasta so it doesn’t become soft when reheated.