Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream is a rich, comforting pasta dish that combines tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and a velvety Parmesan cream sauce. Finished with melted mozzarella, this dish delivers gooey, cheesy satisfaction in every bite. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something indulgent yet easy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultra Creamy Texture – Heavy cream and Parmesan create a silky, restaurant-style sauce.
• Melty Mozzarella Finish – Adds a gooey, stretchy layer of cheesy goodness.
• Quick 30-Minute Meal – Perfect for fast, flavorful dinners.
• Balanced Garlic Flavor – Butter and garlic infuse the dish without overpowering.
• Protein-Packed – Chicken makes it hearty and satisfying.
• Customizable Base – Easy to add vegetables or spice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle) – Holds the creamy sauce in its ridges and folds.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – Used for browning the chicken.
• 1 lb chicken breast, cubed – Provides lean protein and tender texture.
• 2 tablespoons butter – Adds richness and enhances garlic flavor.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Builds aromatic depth.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Adds herbaceous complexity.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances overall flavor.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds mild heat and balance.
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – Provides subtle spice.
• 1½ cups heavy cream – Forms the luxurious sauce base.
• ½ cup chicken broth – Adds savory depth and thins sauce slightly.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Thickens sauce and adds nutty flavor.
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Creates melty topping.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – Adds brightness and color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring salted water to a boil and cook bowtie pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Brown the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then sauté until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F). Remove and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, avoiding browning.

Build the Cream Sauce

Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer for 3–4 minutes, allowing it to slightly thicken.

Incorporate Parmesan

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and whisk until melted and smooth.

Combine Chicken and Pasta

Return cooked chicken to the skillet and coat in sauce. Add drained pasta and toss until evenly coated.

Melt the Mozzarella

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the pasta. Cover and let sit 2–3 minutes until fully melted.

Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh parsley and serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Recipe Notes & Tips

• Cook Pasta Al Dente – Prevents over-softening when mixed with sauce.
• Avoid High Heat After Adding Cream – Prevents curdling.
• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan – Melts smoother than pre-packaged.
• Add Vegetables Easily – Spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli pair well.
• Adjust Thickness – Add extra broth to thin or simmer longer to thicken.
• Season Gradually – Parmesan adds saltiness.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: Approximately 650 kcal per serving

Per Serving (Approximate):
Carbohydrates: 46g | Protein: 42g | Fat: 38g | Sodium: 900mg

Perfect Pairings

• Garlic Bread – Complements the creamy sauce.
• Caesar Salad – Adds crisp, refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Asparagus – Light vegetable balance.
• Sparkling Water with Lemon – Cuts through richness.

Ideal Occasions

• Weeknight Dinners – Quick yet indulgent.
• Date Night at Home – Restaurant-quality comfort.
• Family Gatherings – Crowd-friendly and filling.
• Meal Prep Lunches – Reheats well with added cream.

Storage & Serving Tips

• Refrigerate Airtight – Keeps up to 4 days.
• Reheat Gently – Add splash of cream or milk to loosen sauce.
• Avoid Freezing – Cream-based sauces may separate.
• Stir Before Serving – Redistributes melted cheese evenly.

Creative Variations to Try

• Spicy Kick – Increase red pepper flakes.
• Three-Cheese Blend – Add provolone or fontina.
• Low-Carb Version – Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles.
• Sun-Dried Tomato Addition – Adds tangy sweetness.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Sauce Too Thick – Add warm broth or cream gradually.
• Grainy Sauce – Heat too high when adding cheese.
• Dry Chicken – Avoid overcooking; cook just to 165°F.
• Bland Flavor – Add pinch of salt or extra Parmesan.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works by building layers of flavor and texture. Browning the chicken develops savory depth through the Maillard reaction. Butter and garlic create an aromatic foundation, while heavy cream and Parmesan form a stable emulsion when gently simmered. Mozzarella adds elasticity and richness, creating a smooth, cohesive sauce that clings to the bowtie pasta. With approximately 650 calories per serving, it delivers a hearty balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates suitable for a satisfying main course.

Final Thoughts

Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream is a comforting, crowd-pleasing pasta that combines simplicity with indulgence. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and melty cheese make it a dependable favorite for busy nights or special dinners alike. While rich, portion control and vegetable additions can balance the meal, making it both satisfying and adaptable to your preferences.