Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce

Warm, comforting, and deeply satisfying, this Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce is a weeknight hero that tastes like a special occasion. Tender cubes of seared chicken mingle with pillowy bowtie pasta and a luxuriously creamy mozzarella sauce that clings to every nook and curve. You get a rich, garlicky aroma up front, a silky, cheesy texture in the sauce, and a delicious contrast from the golden-seared chicken. It is ideal for family dinners, casual date nights, or any time you want a simple but impressive meal. If you love pasta recipes with bold garlic and cheese flavors, you might also enjoy a garlicky steak twist in this garlic butter steak parmesan cream sauce or a hand-held option like these cheesy garlic chicken wraps for lunch.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
  Small pieces cook quickly and brown evenly for great texture.
• 3 tbsp butter
  Adds richness to the sauce and helps carry the garlic flavor.
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
  Fresh garlic gives bright, aromatic flavor to the butter and sauce.
• 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
  The notches and folds hold the creamy sauce well.
• 1 cup heavy cream
  Creates a silky base for the mozzarella to melt into.
• 1 1/2 cups freshly grated mozzarella
  Melts smoothly for that stretchy, cheesy finish.
• 1/2 cup Parmesan (optional)
  Adds sharpness and depth if you want a nuttier note.
• 2 tbsp olive oil
  For searing the chicken to a golden crust.
• Salt & pepper to taste
  Essential for seasoning chicken and sauce.
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
  Brightens the dish and adds a fresh finish.

For another cheesy chicken idea with similar flavors, see this deliciously cheesy chicken garlic wraps.

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken. Pat the chicken cubes dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the chicken in a single layer, searing until golden and cooked through, about 4 to 6 minutes per side depending on piece size. Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside. Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan so the chicken browns instead of steaming.
2. Sauté the garlic. Lower the heat to medium, add the 3 tablespoons butter to the same skillet, and let it melt. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 to 45 seconds. Watch closely so the garlic does not brown.
3. Cook the pasta. While the garlic cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the 12 oz bowtie pasta until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta. Tip: Reserve the pasta water before draining to adjust sauce consistency.
4. Make the mozzarella cream sauce. With the skillet on medium-low, pour in 1 cup heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in the 1 1/2 cups grated mozzarella until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce seems too thick, whisk in some of the reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. If using, stir in 1/2 cup Parmesan now for extra depth.
5. Combine and serve. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, add the drained bowtie pasta, and toss gently to coat everything in the mozzarella cream sauce. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil and serve immediately. For a variation that plays with bowtie pasta and bold flavors, consider inspiration from this garlic butter beef cheesy bowtie pasta.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 970 kcal per serving (estimate)

Tips, Storage & Variations

• Tips: Use freshly grated mozzarella for the smoothest melt. If the sauce separates slightly, whisk in warm reserved pasta water to bring it back together. Let the chicken rest briefly after searing so juices redistribute.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: This dish freezes reasonably well but texture may change. Cool completely, pack in a freezer-safe container, and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove with a little cream or water.
• Flavor variations using only the listed ingredients: Increase garlic for a stronger aroma, add the optional Parmesan to enrich the sauce, or stir in an extra tablespoon of butter at the end for a glossier finish. For a cheesier mouthfeel, add a bit more mozzarella while the sauce is warm.

For a creamy, cheesy pasta comfort recipe with a different cheese profile try this cheesesteak tortellini with creamy provolone sauce delight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use pre-shredded mozzarella?
A: You can, but fresh grated melts better and gives a smoother sauce.

Q: Do I need to cook the chicken fully before adding to the sauce?
A: Yes, sear and cook the chicken through first so it stays tender and safe to eat.

Q: How do I prevent the sauce from becoming grainy?
A: Keep the heat low when melting the cheese and whisk continuously while adding it.

Q: Can I skip the Parmesan?
A: Yes, Parmesan is optional and adds extra depth but the dish is delicious without it.

Q: Is heavy cream necessary?
A: Heavy cream creates the rich, silky texture; reduced-fat alternatives will change the sauce consistency.

People Also Ask

Q: What is the best pasta for creamy sauces?
A: Bowtie pasta is great because its nooks hold the sauce, but other short shapes also work.

Q: How long does bowtie pasta take to cook?
A: Typically 9 to 12 minutes to reach al dente, but follow the package instructions.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: You can cook components ahead, but combine and reheat gently before serving for best texture.

Q: How thick should the mozzarella cream sauce be?
A: It should be creamy and coat the pasta without being gluey; thin with reserved pasta water if needed.

Q: Can I use olive oil instead of butter for the sauce?
A: Olive oil can be used for searing, but butter adds richness to the sauce, so keep it for best flavor.

Q: What herbs pair well as a garnish?
A: Fresh parsley or basil both add a bright, fresh contrast to the rich sauce.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce is a quick way to elevate weeknight dinner into something indulgent yet approachable. The golden chicken, fragrant garlic, and silky mozzarella sauce make every forkful comforting and memorable. If you enjoyed this recipe and want another take on mozzarella and garlic flavors, check out this Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream for a similar creamy dish. For a slightly different presentation and technique, this Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce has helpful variations you may like. Give the recipe a try, share your tweaks, and enjoy a cozy, cheesy dinner.