Name: Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups bowtie pasta, dry; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce

Introduction
This Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce is a weeknight showstopper that brings rich, creamy comfort to the table. Tender bite-sized chicken pieces get a golden sear, then mingle with al dente bowtie pasta in a silky mozzarella cream sauce infused with bright garlic and Italian seasoning. Expect a creamy, slightly stretchy cheese pull and a garlicky aroma that fills the kitchen, with buttery mouthfeel and a satisfying texture contrast between the soft pasta and the seared chicken. It is ideal for cozy family dinners, date-night meals at home, or anytime you want a fuss-free pasta dish that feels indulgent. If you enjoy variations on creamy chicken pasta, you might also like this take on creamy garlic chicken pasta for another comforting option.

Ingredients

2 cups bowtie pasta, dry. Use standard farfalle or bowtie pasta for good sauce cling and pleasing bite.
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces. Small pieces cook quickly and brown evenly.
2 tablespoons olive oil. For searing the chicken and building flavor.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided. Adds richness and helps make the sauce glossy.
4 cloves garlic, minced. Fresh garlic gives bright aromatic flavor; mince finely for even distribution.
1 cup heavy cream. The base of the silky mozzarella cream sauce, keeps it smooth and rich.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Melts into a stretchy, creamy sauce with mild flavor.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. A simple blend of herbs to round out the sauce.
Salt and pepper to taste. Season at cooking stages to build balanced flavor.
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish. Adds a fresh herbal lift and color to finish the dish.
For a different chicken flavor profile, consider a richer pan sauce like in Chicken Madeira.

Step-by-step Instructions

Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a splash of the pasta cooking water. Tip: save about 1/4 cup of the starchy water to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Cooking tip: do not crowd the pan so the chicken browns instead of steaming.
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Watch the garlic closely to prevent burning.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Italian seasoning and season with salt and pepper. Simmer gently for 1 to 2 minutes to meld flavors.
Gradually add the mozzarella cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth. If the sauce tightens too much, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency. For a related pasta and cheese technique, see this cracked garlic steak tortellini creamhouse sauce recipe idea.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the cooked bowtie pasta. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce. Heat just until everything is warmed through.
Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and combined. This step gives the sauce extra sheen and richness.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. For a complementary flavor contrast, try pairing with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 820 kcal per serving

Tips, Storage & Variations

Practical tips: Use room temperature chicken for more even cooking. Shred the mozzarella finely so it melts smoothly into the cream. If the sauce separates, lower the heat and whisk gently while adding a splash of pasta water.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.
Freezing: This dish does not freeze well after saucing because dairy sauces can separate. If you want to freeze, store cooked chicken and pasta separately without sauce for up to 2 months, then thaw and combine with freshly warmed cream and mozzarella.
Flavor variations using existing ingredients only:
- Add extra garlic for a bolder aroma.
- Increase Italian seasoning slightly for more herb presence.
- Use a bit more butter for a richer finish.
  For other garlic-forward chicken ideas, you may enjoy this chicken shawarma with garlic sauce inspiration or try the savory chicken shawarma garlic sauce delight for different preparations.

FAQ
Q: Can I use a different pasta shape?
A: Yes, any short pasta works. Bowties are chosen for presentation, but penne, rotini, or farfalle are fine.

Q: Is low fat cream okay to use?
A: Heavy cream gives the best texture. Using lower fat cream may result in a thinner sauce and possible separation.

Q: How can I prevent the sauce from becoming grainy?
A: Melt the cheese over low heat and stir continuously. Adding a little reserved pasta water helps keep the sauce smooth.

Q: Can I cook the dish ahead of time?
A: Cook the components ahead and combine just before serving for best texture. Avoid long holding times once sauced.

Q: How do I reheat leftovers without drying the chicken?
A: Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or water over low heat until warmed through.

People Also Ask
Q: What is the best way to melt mozzarella in a cream sauce?
A: Grate it finely and add over low heat while stirring. Keep the sauce just below boiling.

Q: Can I use pre-shredded mozzarella?
A: Yes, but freshly shredded melts more smoothly because it lacks anti-caking agents.

Q: How long does chicken cook when cut into bite-sized pieces?
A: Typically 5 to 7 minutes over medium heat until no longer pink and juices run clear.

Q: Will the sauce thicken as it sits?
A: Yes, the cheese and butter will thicken the sauce. Stir in reserved pasta water or cream to loosen before serving.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
A: It works for short term meal prep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep sauce and pasta separate if possible for best texture.

Q: What side dishes pair well with this pasta?
A: Simple roasted or steamed vegetables and a crisp green salad balance the richness.

Conclusion

I hope you give this Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce a try soon. It is an easy, comforting dish that feels special and comes together in about 30 minutes. For another version with a similar cheesy, garlicky profile, check out Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream. If you want an alternate take with slight differences in technique and presentation, see Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce. Please share how yours turns out and any small tweaks you make for your family.