Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream
u003c!u002du002d wp:paragraph u002du002du003enu003cpu003eTransform your dinner routine with this indulgent pasta dish that combines juicy chicken, aromatic garlic butter, and a silky mozzarella cream sauce. The bowtie pasta holds the creamy sauce beautifully in every fold, while the seasoned chicken adds the perfect protein complement.u003c/pu003enu003c!u002du002d /wp:paragraph u002du002du003e
Ingredients
- 12 oz bowtie pasta farfalle
- 1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped for garnish
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss to coat evenly.
- Heat 2 tablespoons butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally and let it cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Reduce heat to low. Gradually add the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the cooked bowtie pasta and toss everything together until well coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately while hot..
Notes
u003cliu003eFor extra richness, use half-and-half or add an extra tablespoon of cream cheese. The dish reheats well – add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to restore creaminess. You can substitute chicken thighs for juicier meat. Fresh mozzarella can be used for an even more indulgent sauce. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.u003c/liu003e