Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce

Introduction

Prepare to fall head over heels for a dish that effortlessly marries gourmet appeal with weeknight ease: our Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce. This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl, a symphony of textures and flavors designed to comfort and delight. Imagine tender, succulent pieces of chicken, infused with fragrant garlic and rich butter, perfectly nestled among charming al dente bowtie pasta. But the true star, the element that elevates this meal to an unforgettable experience, is the luxurious, velvety mozzarella cream sauce—a silky, cheesy embrace that coats every single component with irresistible goodness.

This recipe is crafted for those evenings when you crave something truly special, something that tastes like it took hours of painstaking effort, yet comes together with remarkable simplicity. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table, eyes widening at the sight of its creamy allure and mouths watering at the promise of its savory depths. Family-friendly, deeply satisfying, and brimming with heartwarming flavor, Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce offers that perfect balance of comfort and sophistication, making it an instant classic in your kitchen rotation.

Every bite delivers a harmonious blend: the savory punch of garlic butter chicken, the delightful chew of farfalle, and the smooth, rich finish of a perfectly seasoned mozzarella and Parmesan cream sauce. It’s a dish that feels indulgent without being overly complicated, promising a truly satisfying experience that will have you coming back for seconds. Get ready to transform simple ingredients into a masterpiece of creamy, garlicky, cheesy comfort that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (approximate values, based on 6 servings):

Calories: 788
Protein: 41g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Fat: 46.5g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 850mg

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Chicken:
1.25 pounds (about 560g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Pasta:
12 ounces (about 340g) farfalle (bowtie) pasta
1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)
For the Mozzarella Cream Sauce:
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
1.5 cups (about 360ml) heavy cream
3/4 cup (about 180ml) chicken broth (or dry white wine for a brighter flavor)
1 cup (about 4 ounces or 113g) shredded low-moisture whole milk mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup (about 1 ounce or 28g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Pinch of nutmeg (optional, enhances cheesy flavor)
For Garnish:
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper until evenly coated.
Cook the Garlic Butter Chicken: Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If cooking in batches, remove the first batch and set aside before adding the next. Once all chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside on a plate, leaving any pan drippings and browned bits in the skillet.
Cook the Bowtie Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil (use 1 tablespoon of salt for the water). Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually 10-12 minutes. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
Start the Mozzarella Cream Sauce Base: Return the same skillet used for the chicken to medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Once melted, add the remaining 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Build the Cream Sauce: If using, sprinkle in the 1/2 tablespoon of flour over the garlic and butter, stirring constantly for 1 minute to create a roux. This will help thicken the sauce. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth (or white wine), whisking continuously to prevent lumps, especially if you added flour. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
Season and Thicken the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and the optional pinch of nutmeg. Continue to simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Melt in the Cheeses: Gradually add the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring constantly on low heat until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth and cohesive. Do not boil the sauce once the cheese is added, as this can cause it to separate or become stringy. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
Combine Everything: Add the cooked bowtie pasta and the cooked garlic butter chicken back into the skillet with the mozzarella cream sauce. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are thoroughly coated in the rich, creamy sauce.
Serve and Garnish: Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Transfer the Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce to serving bowls. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting masterpiece!

Cooking Tips and Variations

Tips for Success

Achieving the perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce is all about paying attention to a few key details. First, when searing your chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cooking in batches ensures each piece gets a beautiful golden-brown crust, locking in moisture and flavor. Overcrowding will steam the chicken instead of searing it, leading to a less desirable texture. Second, always cook your pasta to a true al dente. It will continue to cook slightly when combined with the hot sauce, so a firm bite at the start prevents it from becoming mushy. This also helps the pasta absorb the sauce more effectively. Third, for the smoothest, most luxurious cream sauce, melt your cheeses slowly over low heat, stirring continuously. High heat can cause the cheese to seize up, become grainy, or separate from the sauce. Using freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan is also crucial; pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can prevent them from melting as smoothly and can affect the sauce’s texture and flavor. Finally, don’t underestimate the power of reserving pasta water. This starchy liquid is your secret weapon for adjusting the sauce’s consistency, helping it cling beautifully to the pasta while adding an extra layer of flavor.

Delicious Variations

This recipe is wonderfully versatile and can be adapted to suit various tastes and preferences. For a brighter, more complex flavor profile, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the finished dish just before serving. The acidity cuts through the richness of the cream sauce beautifully, adding a refreshing zing. If you enjoy a deeper, more aromatic sauce, a dash of dry white wine (like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio) added to the pan after sautéing the garlic, and before the cream and broth, can impart an incredible depth of flavor. Allow it to simmer for a minute or two to cook off the alcohol. For a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added with the garlic. To incorporate more vegetables, consider sautéing some baby spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or sliced mushrooms with the garlic before adding the cream. For a different protein, shrimp or even Italian sausage would work wonderfully in place of the chicken. You can also experiment with other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine if bowties aren’t available, though the farfalle does add a delightful aesthetic touch to this comforting dish.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

To store any leftover Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce, allow the dish to cool completely to room temperature first. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. Properly stored, it will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It is generally not recommended to freeze creamy pasta dishes, as the cream-based sauce can sometimes separate or become grainy upon thawing and reheating, affecting its texture and appeal. However, if you absolutely must freeze it, ensure it’s in a freezer-safe, airtight container for up to 1 month, knowing that the texture might be slightly altered.

Reheating Instructions

When reheating, the sauce may appear thicker than when initially prepared. The best way to reheat this dish is gently on the stovetop. Transfer the desired portion to a non-stick skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of milk, chicken broth, or even water (about 1-2 tablespoons per serving) to help loosen the sauce and restore its creamy consistency. Stir frequently and gently, allowing the dish to heat through slowly until warmed evenly. Avoid high heat, as this can cause the sauce to separate or scorch. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave; place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish, add a tablespoon of liquid, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot. Be mindful not to overheat, as this can dry out the chicken and make the pasta rubbery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent substitute for chicken breasts in this recipe. They tend to be more forgiving and retain moisture better, resulting in even more tender and flavorful chicken. The cooking time might be slightly longer, so ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before removing them from the pan.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare certain components in advance. The garlic butter chicken can be cooked and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The mozzarella cream sauce can also be made ahead of time and refrigerated. When ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth, then combine with freshly cooked pasta and the pre-cooked chicken. This will help maintain the optimal texture of the pasta and the creaminess of the sauce.

What if I don’t have farfalle (bowtie) pasta?

No problem at all! While farfalle adds a charming visual element, this recipe works wonderfully with other pasta shapes. Penne, rigatoni, fusilli, or even fettuccine are great alternatives. Choose a pasta shape that has nooks and crannies or a broad surface area to effectively capture and hold onto the rich mozzarella cream sauce.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap the regular farfalle pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta brand. Ensure the gluten-free pasta is cooked according to its package directions, as cooking times can vary. If you are using flour to thicken the sauce, substitute it with an equal amount of gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch slurry (mix 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water before adding to the sauce). Always double-check ingredient labels for gluten hidden in products like chicken broth.