Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce

 

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta with Bowtie Noodles

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

 

This Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce is rich, creamy, and packed with bold garlic-butter flavor. Tender chicken bites seasoned with Cajun spices are tossed with perfectly cooked bowtie pasta in a silky mozzarella cream sauce that clings to every bite.

It’s restaurant-quality comfort food, made easily at home — perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or when you want something extra indulgent.

 Ingredients

 Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Salt, to taste

 Pasta:

• 1 lb bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• Salted water for boiling

Mozzarella Cream Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cups heavy cream
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus more for topping)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

 Optional:

• Crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)

 Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Large pot
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon

 Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Garlic Butter Chicken

 

1. Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken pieces and season with:
   • Cajun seasoning
   • Smoked paprika
   • Black pepper
   • Salt
3. Cook 5–7 minutes, stirring, until chicken is golden and cooked through.
4. Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Mozzarella Cream Sauce

1. Lower heat to medium.
2. Add remaining 2 tbsp butter to the same skillet.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Whisk in cream cheese until smooth.
5. Add:
   • Mozzarella cheese
   • Parmesan cheese
6. Stir until sauce is creamy and melted.
7. Season with salt and optional red pepper flakes.

If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss gently.
2. Return chicken to skillet and stir to combine.
3. Simmer 2–3 minutes until everything is coated and heated through.

Step 5: Finish & Serve

• Top with extra mozzarella cheese.
• Garnish with parsley or chili flakes if desired.
• Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

• Garlic bread
• Caesar salad
• Roasted vegetables

 Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Pasta

• Don’t boil the cream — gentle simmer only
• Shred cheese fresh for smoother sauce
• Reserve pasta water — it’s liquid gold
• Cajun seasoning adds flavor without overpowering

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add extra Cajun or chili oil
• Protein Swap: Use shrimp or sausage
• Lighter Version: Half-and-half instead of cream
• Veggie Add-ins: Spinach, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes

Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Up to 4 days
• Reheat on stovetop with splash of cream or milk
• Not freezer-friendly (cream sauce may separate)

 Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce is rich, comforting, and absolutely irresistible. Every bite is creamy, cheesy, and packed with garlic-butter goodness — a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.