If you’re craving the kind of pasta that feels like a warm hug—rich, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy—then Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream is exactly what you need. This recipe takes tender chicken breast, aromatic garlic butter, and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, then brings them together in a luscious mozzarella cream sauce that’s pure comfort on a plate.
It’s the kind of meal that makes you forget about takeout because it’s that satisfying and simple to make. I first tried this dish with a sprinkle of smoked paprika in the butter, and it added a subtle depth that made the sauce even more addictive. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner, a cozy date night, or just treating yourself after a long day, this pasta will win everyone over with its creamy texture and bold, buttery flavor.
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Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream: A Dreamy Pasta Indulgence
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream is a rich and comforting pasta dish featuring tender chicken, bowtie pasta, and a luscious garlic butter cream sauce loaded with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
- 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add butter and garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and add mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
- Return cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet, tossing until well coated in the creamy sauce.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with comforting flavors
- Ready in about 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights
- Uses simple ingredients you likely already have
- Family-friendly and restaurant-worthy
- Easily customizable to suit your taste
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle)
These adorable pasta shapes hold the creamy sauce beautifully. Their ridges and folds make every bite rich and satisfying.
Chicken Breast
Lean, tender, and the perfect protein to balance the richness of the sauce. Slice it thinly for quick, even cooking.
Butter
The heart of the dish—melted butter mixed with garlic gives that irresistible aroma and adds a silky texture to the sauce.
Garlic
Freshly minced garlic infuses every layer of the sauce with warmth and depth. The combination of garlic and butter creates the base of flavor.
Heavy Cream
This is what makes the sauce ultra-creamy and indulgent. You can also use half-and-half for a lighter version.
Mozzarella Cheese
Melts perfectly into the sauce, giving it that stretchy, gooey, cheesy goodness we all love.
Parmesan Cheese
Adds a salty, nutty bite that enhances the creamy sauce and balances the richness.
Olive Oil
Used for cooking the chicken; it prevents sticking and adds a light fruity note.
Italian Seasoning
A mix of oregano, basil, and thyme for an herby punch that complements the cheese and cream.
Salt and Pepper
Simple seasonings that elevate all the other flavors. Adjust to taste before serving.
Fresh Parsley (optional)
Adds a touch of color and freshness to balance the richness of the sauce.
Directions
Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, toss with a little olive oil, and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Season the sliced chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it burn. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until the sauce becomes thick and velvety.
Return the chicken to the skillet and toss in the cooked bowtie pasta. Coat everything evenly in the cheesy cream sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. The creamy mozzarella sauce clings to every bowtie, creating a comforting dish that feels gourmet but is simple enough for any night of the week.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Tongs or wooden spoon for stirring
- Knife and cutting board for chicken and garlic
- Cheese grater
- Measuring cups and spoons
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can cause the cheese to separate. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it reheats beautifully when done slowly.
Variations and Customizations
Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Version
Add a handful of spinach and chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a colorful, Mediterranean twist.
Mushroom Lover’s Edition
Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for extra umami flavor and heartiness.
Spicy Kick
Stir in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne for a creamy pasta with a touch of heat.
Bacon Lovers
Add crispy bacon bits for smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the garlic butter sauce.
Lemon Herb Delight
Finish the sauce with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh basil for a lighter, brighter flavor.
Cheddar-Mozzarella Blend
Combine sharp cheddar with mozzarella for a bolder, cheesier flavor profile.
Broccoli Boost
Toss in steamed broccoli florets for a wholesome twist that adds texture and color.
Creamy Pesto Fusion
Stir in a spoonful of basil pesto for a fresh, herby twist on the classic creamy sauce.
Shrimp Swap
Replace chicken with shrimp for a seafood version that’s equally decadent.
Low-Carb Option
Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower florets instead of pasta for a lighter alternative.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, penne, fettuccine, or rotini all work beautifully with this creamy sauce.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Absolutely. Just warm it through in the sauce before adding the pasta.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
Add a bit more mozzarella or simmer the sauce a little longer to reduce and thicken.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but the sauce thickens as it sits. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half or even evaporated milk for a lighter version.
How do I keep the cheese from clumping?
Add the cheese gradually and stir continuously over low heat until melted.
Conclusion
Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream is the ultimate comfort food—a decadent combination of tender chicken, rich garlic butter, and melt-in-your-mouth mozzarella cream sauce that clings beautifully to bowtie pasta. It’s elegant enough for special occasions yet simple enough for weeknights. Whether you’re feeding family or hosting friends, this creamy pasta delivers restaurant-level flavor right from your kitchen. Serve it hot, garnish with herbs, and enjoy every luxurious, cheesy bite.