Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce

 

Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce

 

Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce is a rich, comforting pasta dish packed with tender chicken, buttery garlic flavor, and a smooth, cheesy cream sauce. Bowtie pasta (farfalle) holds the sauce perfectly, making every bite creamy and satisfying. This recipe is ideal for family dinners, special occasions, or when you’re craving a cozy, restaurant-style meal at home.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 tablespoons butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt, to taste

For the Pasta & Sauce

• 1 lb bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• 4 cups heavy cream
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus more for topping
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter.
Once melted, add the chicken pieces and season with salt, black pepper, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika.
Cook for 7–9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30–45 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Prepare the Mozzarella Cream Sauce

Reduce the heat to low–medium.
Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly.
Add the softened cream cheese and whisk until fully melted and smooth.
Gradually stir in the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the sauce becomes thick, creamy, and well combined.
Season with salt to taste.

If the sauce becomes too thick, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it in the sauce.
Add the cooked bowtie pasta and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
Sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from heat and top with extra shredded mozzarella cheese.
For a bubbly finish, place the skillet under the broiler for 3–5 minutes until the cheese melts and lightly browns (optional).

Tips & Variations

• Add vegetables: Spinach, mushrooms, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes pair beautifully with this dish.
• Make it lighter: Use half heavy cream and half milk, or reduce the amount of cheese slightly.
• Extra flavor: Add Italian seasoning or a splash of chicken broth to deepen the sauce flavor.
• Pasta swap: Penne, rotini, or fettuccine work just as well.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta with:

• A fresh green salad
• Garlic bread or breadsticks
• Roasted vegetables