Description
This one-pan meal offers a vibrant balance of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and rich butter sauce. Tender chicken breast and bowtie pasta are tossed with fresh broccoli and a hint of Cajun spice, creating a sophisticated, restaurant-quality dinner that comes together in under 40 minutes. It is the perfect blend of indulgent flavors and wholesome, fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks
12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
6 tbsp unsalted grass-fed butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp Cajun seasoning
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook bowtie pasta until al dente.
Add broccoli florets to the pasta pot during the last 3 minutes of cooking.
Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and broccoli.
Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sauté chicken until cooked through, about 6-7 minutes.
Remove chicken and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and Dijon mustard.
Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken back to the skillet.
Pour in a splash of the reserved pasta water to emulsify and toss until the sauce is velvety and coats the pasta evenly.
Top with fresh Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.
Notes
Ensure you do not overcook the broccoli by adding it during the final minutes of the pasta cooking time. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Chicken Recipes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Fusion