Enjoying a flavorful meal can often feel like a luxury, especially on busy days. This delightful dish brings a comforting mix of succulent chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a zingy butter sauce that elevates it to something truly special. Having prepared this on several occasions, I can confidently say it’s a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings and an easy choice for weeknights.
Butter Chicken with Broccoli
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A comforting mix of succulent chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a zingy butter sauce served with bowtie pasta.
Ingredients
- 8 oz bowtie pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water, then add bowtie pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Add the broccoli: Incorporate the broccoli florets into the skillet with the chicken, and sauté for another 3-4 minutes, just until the broccoli is tender yet crisp.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and zest. Pour this mixture over the chicken and broccoli, stirring to coat evenly.
- Combine everything: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it all together until well mixed. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: Serve immediately, garnishing with a sprinkle of extra lemon zest if desired.
Notes
This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread. For storage, leftovers can be kept in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Why you’ll love this dish
Not only does this dish deliver on taste, but it also offers a vibrant presentation that brightens the dinner table. The zesty richness of the butter sauce combined with the freshness of broccoli is simply irresistible.
“The flavors explode in your mouth! This has quickly become a favorite in our household!”
The perfect blend of protein and greens makes it a complete meal that keeps everyone satisfied.
How it comes together
Preparing this dish involves cooking bowtie pasta, sautéing chicken, and then bringing it all together with a luscious sauce. The result? A satisfying combination of textures and flavors that feels gourmet but is so approachable to make at home.
Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 20 min | Total Time: 35 min
What you’ll need
- Bowtie pasta
- Chicken breast, diced
- Fresh broccoli florets
- Garlic, minced
- Butter
- Fresh lemon juice and zest
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
Feel free to swap the chicken for your favorite protein, such as turkey or beef if you prefer.
Step-by-step instructions
- Cook the pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water, then add bowtie pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Add the broccoli: Incorporate the broccoli florets into the skillet with the chicken, and sauté for another 3-4 minutes, just until the broccoli is tender yet crisp.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and zest. Pour this mixture over the chicken and broccoli, stirring to coat evenly.
- Combine everything: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it all together until well mixed. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: Serve immediately, garnishing with a sprinkle of extra lemon zest if desired.
Best ways to enjoy it
This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad, bringing in extra greens, or some crusty bread to mop up the flavorful sauce. For a classic touch, consider a light white wine, which complements the lemony flavor wonderfully.
Storage and reheating tips
Leftover portions can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, feel free to freeze in individual portions for future meals. When reheating, ensure it’s warmed through to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Helpful cooking tips
For added depth of flavor, consider browning the butter before adding garlic. This brown butter technique imparts a nutty essence that takes the dish to another level. Also, save a bit of pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency if it becomes too thick.
Creative twists
Explore different flavor profiles by adding fresh herbs such as basil or parsley. For a spicy kick, try incorporating red pepper flakes. If you prefer a creamier texture, a splash of heavy cream can add richness without overpowering the dish.
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works fine. Just make sure to thaw and drain it to avoid extra moisture in the dish.
What can I substitute for butter if I want a dairy-free option?
Coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine can serve as great substitutes for butter while keeping the dish flavorful.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Simply combine everything right before serving for the best texture.