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Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce

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A comforting weeknight meal featuring tender chicken and bowtie pasta in a creamy mozzarella sauce boosted with garlic and buttery richness.

Ingredients

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  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 3 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 ½ cups freshly grated mozzarella
  • ½ cup Parmesan (optional)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken. Pat the cubed chicken dry with paper towels, then season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and sear until golden and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes depending on cube size. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
  2. Make the garlic butter base. Reduce the skillet heat to medium-low and add 3 tablespoons butter. When the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 to 60 seconds. Watch the garlic closely so it does not burn.
  3. Cook the pasta. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces bowtie pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
  4. Create the mozzarella cream sauce. Pour 1 cup heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic butter and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in 1 1/2 cups freshly grated mozzarella until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it and achieve your desired consistency.
  5. Toss and serve. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Gently toss until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the mozzarella cream sauce. Stir in up to 1/2 cup Parmesan if using, and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil and serve immediately.

Notes

Pat the chicken dry before searing for good browning. Grate mozzarella fresh for better melting. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy pasta, chicken pasta, garlic butter chicken, creamy sauce, weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://saveurmagique.com/cheesy-garlic-butter-chicken-bowties-mozzarella-sauce/