Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Cowboy Butter Lemon Sauce

why make this recipe

Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Cowboy Butter Lemon Sauce is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love. This dish is easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner, and has a touch of spice from the Cajun seasoning. The creamy lemon butter sauce brings everything together, making each bite a satisfying experience. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate veggies into your meal with the addition of broccoli.

how to make Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Cowboy Butter Lemon Sauce

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 8 ounces bowtie pasta
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Directions:

1. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets. Drain and set aside.
2. Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the lemon juice and stir to combine.
5. Toss the cooked pasta and broccoli into the skillet with the butter sauce.
6. Serve pasta topped with sliced Cajun chicken and, if desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

how to serve Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Cowboy Butter Lemon Sauce

Serve this dish warm, garnished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor. This pasta is perfect as a main course and pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread to complete your meal.

how to store Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Cowboy Butter Lemon Sauce

You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be good for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little extra butter or water if needed to maintain moisture.

tips to make Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Cowboy Butter Lemon Sauce

• For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate in Cajun seasoning for an hour before cooking.
• You can add other vegetables, like bell peppers or spinach, for more color and nutrition.
• Make sure not to overcook the broccoli; it should be bright green and slightly tender.

variation

You can easily make this dish using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different protein option. If you prefer a lighter dish, consider using whole grain or gluten-free pasta.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like, although bowtie pasta gives this dish a fun look and texture.

Is Cajun seasoning spicy?
Cajun seasoning has a bit of spice, but it’s not overwhelmingly hot. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the components (cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce) ahead of time. Just combine and heat before serving.

Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Cowboy Butter Lemon Sauce

A delicious blend of flavors with Cajun-seasoned chicken, creamy lemon butter sauce, and fresh broccoli in bowtie pasta.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American, Southern

Calories: 550

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 8 ounces bowtie pasta
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 4 tablespoons butter divided
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 whole lemon, juiced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese for serving (optional) optional topping

Method

 

Cooking the Pasta and Broccoli

1. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets. Drain and set aside.

Cooking the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Making the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add the lemon juice and stir to combine.

Final Assembly

1. Toss the cooked pasta and broccoli into the skillet with the butter sauce.
2. Serve pasta topped with sliced Cajun chicken and, if desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Notes

For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate in Cajun seasoning for an hour before cooking. You can add other vegetables, like bell peppers or spinach, for more color and nutrition. Ensure the broccoli is not overcooked; it should be bright green and slightly tender. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.