Name: Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle); 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 1/2 cups heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

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Introduction

Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream is a comforting and delicious pasta dish that combines tender chicken, garlic butter, and creamy cheeses. Bowtie pasta perfectly cradles the rich sauce, making every bite a delight. This recipe is great for a cozy weeknight dinner or when you want to impress guests with minimal fuss.

The image shows a white plate filled with bowtie pasta and grilled chicken pieces. The pasta is light yellow with a slightly shiny texture, and it's spread evenly on the plate. On top, there are several pieces of golden-brown grilled chicken with some light charring for texture. The dish is sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs, adding a fresh touch. The white marbled surface underneath gives a clean and bright look to the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
2 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside without rinsing to keep the starch for the sauce.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Sauté chicken pieces until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 5: Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the sauce.
Step 6: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and mix gently to combine everything evenly.
Step 7: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt over low heat for 2-3 minutes.
Step 8: Remove the lid and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve the dish hot and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Salt your pasta water generously to bring out the best flavor in the pasta.
Prep ingredients like chicken and garlic ahead of time to save cooking time.
Add vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra color and nutrition.
To add a spicy kick, include red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
For extra creaminess, substitute fresh mozzarella or add a splash of white wine during sauce preparation.
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta instead of bowtie pasta.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to prevent the pasta from drying out. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. For best texture, add fresh mozzarella after reheating if desired.

How to Serve

A white plate filled with bowtie pasta mixed with creamy sauce, topped with several golden-brown grilled chicken breasts that have a slightly crispy texture with herbs scattered on top. The pasta is coated evenly with the sauce, showing a smooth, light yellow color with small green herb bits throughout. The chicken pieces rest on the pasta in a layered arrangement, giving a balanced look. The entire dish sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, fusilli, or spaghetti can all be good substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the shape you choose.

How can I make this dish lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and opt for low-fat cheese varieties. Adding more vegetables also helps lighten the dish while boosting nutrition.