When you need a dinner that’s rich, cozy, and guaranteed to make everyone happy, Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce is the perfect choice. Tender bites of chicken, buttery garlic flavor, and bowtie pasta come together in a silky mozzarella cream sauce that clings to every piece.
Unlike basic alfredo-style pastas, this recipe adds a garlic-butter base and melted mozzarella for extra stretch, creaminess, and flavor. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or anytime you want restaurant-style comfort food at home—without complicated steps.
Ingredients
Serves 6
For the Pasta and Chicken
- 12 oz (340g) bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 1/2 lb (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs), cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Garlic Butter Base
- 4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Mozzarella Cream Sauce
- 1 1/2 cups (360ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter)
- 3/4 cup (180ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional, for extra smoothness)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
- Salt to taste
Finish
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)
- Extra Parmesan for serving
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
- Total time: About 40 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook bowties according to package directions until al dente.
Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
Season chicken with 1/2 teaspoon salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika (if using).
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 6–8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove to a plate.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base
In the same skillet, lower heat to medium. Add butter and let it melt.
Stir in garlic (and red pepper flakes if using) and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Build the Cream Sauce
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Stir in Parmesan and cream cheese (if using) until smooth.
Step 5: Add Mozzarella
Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded mozzarella gradually until melted and creamy.
If you want the sauce thicker, stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer for 1–2 minutes.
Taste and adjust salt.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add cooked chicken back to the skillet, then add bowties. Toss until fully coated.
If needed, loosen with a splash of reserved pasta water.
Step 7: Serve
Top with extra mozzarella or Parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley. Serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad or Caesar salad for balance.
- Serve with garlic bread or warm rolls to soak up sauce.
- Add roasted broccoli, asparagus, or green beans on the side.
- For extra freshness, squeeze a little lemon over the pasta before serving.
- Great for meal prep—reheats well with a splash of milk or broth.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1/6 recipe) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 650 |
| Protein | 42 grams |
| Total Fat | 34 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 17 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 48 grams |
| Sugars | 4 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 720 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Chicken provides lean protein for a filling meal.
- Mozzarella and Parmesan add calcium and rich flavor (use part-skim mozzarella to reduce fat).
- Pairing with a vegetable side boosts fiber and nutrients.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Pasta
- Shred mozzarella fresh for the smoothest melting (pre-shredded can be slightly grainy).
- Keep heat low when adding cheese to prevent separation.
- Don’t overcook bowties—al dente pasta holds sauce better.
- If sauce thickens too much, loosen with pasta water or a splash of broth.
- Add mozzarella gradually for the creamiest texture.
Variations to Try
- Spinach Version: Stir in 2 cups fresh spinach at the end until wilted.
- Mushroom Add-In: Sauté sliced mushrooms after the chicken, then proceed with sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Lighter Sauce: Use half-and-half and reduce mozzarella slightly.
- Baked Finish: Transfer to a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and broil 2–3 minutes until bubbly.
This Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce is pure comfort in a bowl—creamy, cheesy, and packed with garlicky flavor. It’s quick enough for weeknights, impressive enough for guests, and endlessly customizable with veggies or spice.
Whether you keep it classic or add your favorite extras, this recipe guarantees a rich, cheesy, satisfying bite every time.
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