Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

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There’s something irresistibly comforting about a bowl of pasta, especially when it’s bathed in a rich, cheesy cream sauce and topped with tender, golden-seared chicken. This Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream recipe brings all the cozy, savory elements together—perfectly cooked bowtie pasta (also known as farfalle), juicy garlic butter chicken, and a creamy mozzarella sauce that clings to every bite.

Whether you’re looking to impress your family with a weeknight dinner or indulge in a cozy night in, this dish delivers big on both flavor and presentation. It’s rich but balanced, with the garlic and herbs cutting through the creaminess, and the chicken adding that hearty, satisfying bite. A dish like this doesn’t just feed your hunger—it feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

• The creamy mozzarella sauce is velvety and rich, perfectly coating every piece of pasta.
• Garlic butter chicken brings an incredible savory punch with crispy edges and juicy centers.
• Farfalle pasta adds a fun texture that holds the sauce beautifully.
• It’s a full meal in one—protein, carbs, and flavor galore.
• Great for both everyday dinners and special occasions.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To bring this dish together smoothly, make sure you have these kitchen essentials on hand:

• Large Pot: For boiling the pasta evenly without crowding.
• Deep Skillet or Sauté Pan: This is where the garlic butter chicken magic happens, and where you’ll later combine the pasta and sauce.
• Tongs or a Slotted Spoon: Perfect for tossing the pasta in the sauce.
• Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: To dice the chicken into even pieces, ensuring even cooking.
• Grater: Freshly grated mozzarella melts better than pre-shredded, so a grater is essential.
• Whisk: To keep the sauce smooth and lump-free.

Each of these tools contributes to the smooth execution and quality of your final dish—don’t skip them!

Preparation Tips

Start by bringing your pasta water to a boil before anything else—this saves time. While the pasta cooks, focus on seasoning and searing the chicken in garlic butter to build deep flavor from the start. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as that prevents the chicken from browning properly. When making the sauce, use low heat after adding cheese to avoid clumping or burning. Reserve some pasta water to help the sauce reach that silky, restaurant-style finish. Lastly, toss everything together gently so the pasta doesn’t tear and the chicken pieces remain whole and juicy.

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Ingredients for Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

For the Chicken:

• 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• Salt for pasta water

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for slight thickening)
• 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

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Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

Fill a large pot with water, add a generous amount of salt, and bring it to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions (about 10-12 minutes). Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.

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Step 2: Sear the Garlic Butter Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and butter in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

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Step 3: Make the Cheesy Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the remaining minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and milk. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Gradually add mozzarella and Parmesan cheese while stirring constantly. Continue to cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.

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Step 4: Combine Everything Together

Lower the heat and add the cooked pasta into the sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and sprinkle with chopped parsley.

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Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Serve the pasta hot, straight from the pan or transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with additional parsley, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and extra crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Pair it with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

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Notes

This recipe thrives on fresh ingredients and timing. Freshly minced garlic and good-quality mozzarella will elevate the sauce to a whole new level. Letting the chicken rest for a minute before combining it with the pasta helps retain its juiciness. Always taste and adjust seasoning, especially in creamy dishes—salt can make or break the final flavor.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Pasta: Farfalle should be al dente for the best texture. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy and won’t hold the sauce well.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic cooks quickly—keep the heat moderate and stir constantly to avoid a bitter taste.
• Adding Cheese at High Heat: Melting mozzarella over high heat can cause it to separate or become stringy. Always melt it over low heat for a smooth, velvety finish.
• Skipping the Pasta Water: Reserved pasta water helps emulsify and loosen the sauce. Don’t forget it.
• Crowding the Pan with Chicken: This causes steaming instead of searing. Work in batches if needed for a proper golden crust.

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Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the creaminess of the sauce. For best results, reheat gently over medium heat on the stove. Freezing is not recommended as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving, assuming 4 servings total)

• Calories: 620 kcal
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Cholesterol: 135mg
• Sodium: 430mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish lighter?

You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half and reduce the cheese slightly. Use grilled chicken breast for a leaner protein option.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Penne, rotini, or fettuccine also work well and hold the sauce nicely.

Is it okay to use pre-shredded mozzarella?

Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Freshly shredded is best for a creamy texture.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes add flavor and color.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in a skillet with a splash of milk or cream over medium-low heat. Stir gently to avoid drying out the chicken.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend in the sauce.

How spicy is this recipe?

It has a mild kick from red pepper flakes, which you can adjust or omit based on your preference.

What can I serve with this?

It pairs beautifully with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables.

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Conclusion

Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream is a rich, indulgent pasta dish that’s easy enough for weeknights yet fancy enough to serve guests. With its perfect blend of textures and flavors—from tender chicken and creamy sauce to the delightful bite of bowtie pasta—it’s a recipe you’ll keep coming back to. Whether it’s a comfort meal or a dinner party centerpiece, this dish never disappoints.

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