Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

This Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream is a cozy, crowd-pleasing pasta dinner that balances rich, creamy sauce with tender, seasoned chicken and gooey melted mozzarella. The sauce is silky from heavy cream and cream cheese, savory from Parmesan, and brightened by garlic, while Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika add a gentle smoky warmth. Bowtie pasta holds the sauce in its folds so every bite is saucy and satisfying, and the broiled mozzarella on top gives a bubbly, lightly browned finish. This dish works wonderfully for weeknight family meals, casual dinner parties, or when you want a comforting one-skillet supper. If you enjoy creamy chicken pasta with a flavorful kick, you might also like this creamy garlic chicken pasta family favorite for another take on garlic-forward comfort food.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces — Tender protein, cut small so it cooks quickly and mixes well with pasta.
• 1 lb bowtie pasta — Farfalle holds creamy sauce in its ruffles for great texture.
• 4 cups chicken broth — Adds savory depth and thins the sauce if needed.
• 1 cup heavy cream — Creates a rich, silky base for the cheesy sauce.
• 4 oz cream cheese — Gives smooth body and tang to the sauce.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese — Melts into stringy, gooey topping and sauce.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced — Fresh garlic adds bright, aromatic flavor.
• 2 tbsp olive oil — For tossing and browning the chicken.
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning — Brings warm, savory spice to the chicken.
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika — Adds a subtle smoky note.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper — Freshly ground is best for aromatic heat.
• Salt to taste — Balances the flavors; add gradually.
• 4 tbsp butter, divided — Provides richness; divided use helps build the sauce and finish.
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour — Thickens the sauce when combined with milk.
• 1/4 cup milk — Makes the flour into a smooth slurry to avoid lumps.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese — Adds nutty, salty depth and helps thicken.
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional) — For an extra touch of heat if you like it spicy.

In a separate note, if you want another garlic-forward pasta to try later, check out this cracked garlic steak tortellini creamhouse sauce bliss.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season the chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp Cajun seasoning, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and salt until evenly coated. Tip: Pat chicken dry before tossing to help it brown better.
2. Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 6 to 8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Small tip: Do not overcrowd the pan so the pieces sear instead of steam.
3. Boil the pasta: While the chicken cooks, boil a large pot of water and cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Avoid browning the garlic too much to prevent bitterness.
5. Make the flour slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp all-purpose flour and 1/4 cup milk until smooth. Add this mixture to the skillet while stirring to thicken.
6. Build the sauce: Gradually stir in 4 cups chicken broth and 1 cup heavy cream, then bring to a gentle simmer to thicken evenly. Stir constantly at first to blend the slurry in smoothly.
7. Add the cheeses: Mix in 4 oz cream cheese and 1 cup shredded mozzarella until melted and smooth. Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, adding extra chicken broth if the sauce is too thick.
8. Combine pasta and chicken: Add the cooked pasta and reserved chicken back into the skillet, tossing gently to coat in the sauce. If the sauce tightens as it cools, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen.
9. Finish with mozzarella: Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top. Broil until cheese is bubbly and lightly browned, watching closely to prevent burning. Use a broiler-safe pan or transfer to an oven-safe dish if needed.
10. Serve: Remove from the oven, season with a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired, and serve hot.

For another quick weeknight option featuring chicken and easy assembly, see this BBQ chicken quesadillas easy dinner idea.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: Approximately 845 kcal per serving

Tips, Storage & Variations

• Tips: Use room temperature cream cheese so it melts smoothly into the sauce. Reserve some pasta cooking water or extra chicken broth to adjust sauce consistency if needed. Taste for salt at the end since Parmesan and broth add saltiness.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: For best results, freeze portions without the broiled mozzarella on top. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove and add fresh shredded mozzarella before broiling.
• Flavor variations using only the listed ingredients: Increase Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes for a spicier profile. Add an extra 1/4 cup chicken broth while reheating for a thinner sauce. Swap a bit of mozzarella into the sauce rather than only on top for an extra gooey interior.
• If you want another simple glaze-inspired dinner idea to keep in mind, try this 5-ingredient honey garlic glazed salmon.

FAQ
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1. Can I use a different pasta shape?
   Yes, any sturdy pasta like penne or rigatoni will work; adjust cooking time per package.
2. Is low-fat milk okay instead of whole milk?
   Yes, low-fat milk works for the slurry, but the sauce will be slightly less rich.
3. Can I skip the broil step?
   Yes, you can skip broiling, but the mozzarella will not get the golden, bubbly top.
4. How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?
   Keep heat moderate and stir frequently. If sauce looks curdled, whisk in a splash of warm broth slowly.
5. Can I make this ahead of time?
   You can assemble and refrigerate before broiling, then broil just before serving for best texture.
6. Are leftovers safe to freeze?
   Yes, freeze without the broiled cheese for best reheating results.

People Also Ask (PAA)

1. How long does creamy chicken pasta last in the fridge?
   Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
2. Can I use pre-shredded mozzarella?
   Yes, pre-shredded works, though fresh shredded melts slightly better.
3. What can I substitute for cream cheese?
   There is no direct substitute in this ingredient list; omitting it will change texture but you can increase cream slightly.
4. Should I salt the pasta water?
   Yes, salt the pasta water generously to season the pasta base.
5. Is it better to broil or bake the cheese topping?
   Broiling gives a quick bubbly, browned finish; baking works but takes longer.
6. Can I make this dairy-free with the given ingredients?
   No, the recipe depends on dairy ingredients provided for the creamy sauce.
7. What temperature should the oven be for broiling?
   Use your broiler on high and watch closely until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
8. Can I double this recipe?
   Yes, double ingredients and use a larger skillet or transfer to a casserole for broiling.

Conclusion

This Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream is a warm, comforting meal that brings creamy cheese, garlicky aroma, and seasoned chicken together in every bite. It is perfect for feeding a family or bringing to a casual dinner where you want something impressive but easy. For the original online version of this recipe and a printable layout, see Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream. For another baked garlic butter chicken variation with mozzarella to compare techniques, check out Baked Garlic Butter Chicken with Mozzarella – Little Spice Jar. Please try the recipe, share how it turned out, and enjoy a cozy, cheesy dinner.