As I stood at the stove, the sizzling sound of chicken mingled with the rich aroma of garlic wafting through my kitchen, I had that moment of clarity—this is the kind of meal that transforms a hectic weeknight into a cozy family gathering. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream, a dish that not only comes together in just 30 minutes but is also a customizable comfort food delight. Whether you’re feeding hungry kids or simply craving a bowl of creamy goodness, this recipe has you covered with its decadent sauce and playful bowtie pasta. Plus, it’s perfect for those busy nights when you want something hearty and satisfying. Are you ready to dive into the deliciousness? Let’s get started!
Why is this recipe a must-try?
Quick Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can create a comforting meal that feels like it took all day.
Customizable Ingredients: With options for swapping chicken for chickpeas or adding extra veggies like spinach, it’s versatile enough to satisfy any palate.
Creamy Indulgence: The rich, cheesy sauce combined with garlic makes every bite a comforting delight that pairs beautifully with your favorite side, such as a garlic bread.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether for family dinner or casual gatherings, this dish is sure to impress—everyone will be asking for seconds!
Simplified Cooking: This recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs who want a quick yet scrumptious option. You might also discover tips on storing leftovers to keep the flavors fresh!
Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Bowtie Pasta – The star of this dish, providing fun shapes for a perfect bite; swap for penne or fusilli if you prefer.
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breast – Your primary protein that adds delicious flavor; replace with chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing; any vegetable oil can also work here.
• Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs that enhances the entire dish; fresh basil or oregano is a delightful substitute.
For the Sauce
• Butter – Enhances the richness, giving a luxurious feel to the sauce; opt for olive oil for a lighter touch.
• Minced Garlic – It’s the aromatic base for a flavorful sauce; fresh is best, but garlic powder will do in a pinch.
• Chicken Broth – Infuses the sauce with savory goodness; vegetable broth is a suitable alternative.
• Heavy Cream – Creates that velvety texture; use half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
• Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings; adjust according to your taste.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a delicious umami richness; for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast is a great swap.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Provides gooey, melty goodness on top; low-fat cheese is a lighter alternative if desired.
For Serving
• Chopped Parsley – A sprinkle of freshness that brightens the dish; use for a beautiful garnish.
With these carefully selected ingredients in hand, you’re just moments away from making a delightful batch of Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream
Step 1: Cook Pasta
Begin by filling a large pot with water and adding a generous amount of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil and add the bowtie pasta. Cook the pasta for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it reaches al dente texture—it should be firm yet tender. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander, ensuring you do not rinse it to keep the starch intact.
Step 2: Sauté Chicken
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. While it heats up, season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and sauté it for 5-7 minutes until the outside is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate to rest.
Step 3: Prepare Sauce
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, coating the back of a spoon as you stir.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Reduce the heat to low, and add the grated Parmesan cheese to the thickened sauce. Stir continuously until the cheese completely melts and integrates into the sauce, creating a creamy texture. Next, return the sautéed chicken to the skillet along with the cooked bowtie pasta, tossing everything together until well-coated in the cheesy cream sauce.
Step 5: Melt Mozzarella
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pasta mixture and cover the skillet with a lid. Allow it to heat on low for about 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts into gooey perfection. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, and feel free to stir gently to encourage the melting process.
Step 6: Serve
Once the mozzarella has melted beautifully, remove the skillet from heat and garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Divide the comforting Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream into bowls and serve immediately, savoring the rich blend of flavors that will make any family meal special.
Expert Tips for Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties
• Pasta Perfection: Stir the bowtie pasta occasionally while it cooks to prevent sticking. Al dente is key for that perfect bite!
• Sauce Thickness: Allow your sauce to simmer gently without rushing. It should coat the back of a spoon for the ideal creamy texture.
• Customize Wisely: Don’t hesitate to swap out chicken for chickpeas or tofu! This simple change keeps the dish delicious and vegetarian-friendly.
• Cheese Melting Tip: For gooey mozzarella, cover the skillet while it melts. This traps heat and ensures a rich, cheesy topping on your dish.
• Storage Smart: To keep leftovers moist, add a splash of broth or cream when reheating Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties.
Make Ahead Options
These Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can cook the bowtie pasta and sauté the chicken breast up to 24 hours in advance; just store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. For the sauce, prepare it in advance and refrigerate for up to 3 days—simply reheat it on low, adding a splash of cream if it thickens too much. When you’re ready to serve, combine the pasta, chicken, and sauce on the stove, sprinkle the mozzarella on top, and let it melt for delicious, comforting results with minimal effort.
Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties Variations
Feel free to personalize this creamy dish to satisfy your cravings and dietary needs!
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Vegetarian Substitute: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.
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Load it with Veggies: Toss in fresh spinach or vibrant bell peppers to enhance nutrition and add color to your meal.
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Gluten-Free Twist: Use gluten-free bowtie pasta to make this dish accessible for those with gluten sensitivities.
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Herb Boost: Replace Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like basil or oregano for a lively flavor punch that’s aromatic.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic for a delightful heat that complements the creaminess.
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Creamy Alternatives: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free option.
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Cheese Swap: For a different flavor, try using Gruyère or fontina cheese instead of mozzarella for a unique twist.
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Sauce Infusions: Experiment with adding a splash of white wine to the sauce for enhanced depth and sweetness.
With these variations, you can enjoy endless possibilities while savoring the comfort of Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream! If you want to explore more delicious pasta dishes, check out our tips on storing leftovers to make the most of your meal prep!
How to Store and Freeze Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to keep the dish moist.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken bowties in a freezer-safe container. They can be kept for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When reheating from frozen, cook on low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a bit of cream if the dish seems too dry, and heat until warmed through.
What to Serve with Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream
A balanced meal elevates the creamy goodness of your dish and brings vibrant flavors to the table!
- Garlic Bread: Crisp and buttery, perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce while enhancing the meal’s comforting vibe.
- Side Salad: A fresh, crunchy salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette brightens each bite, balancing the richness of the pasta.
- Steamed Broccoli: Tender broccoli adds a touch of green and a satisfying crunch, giving you that ideal veggie complement to the creamy dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots impart a smoky sweetness, offering a delightful contrast to the cheesy goodness.
- White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay enhances the meal, with its acidity cutting through the richness of the cream.
- Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a refreshing scoop of lemon sorbet cleanses the palate, leaving a light and zesty finish after the creamy indulgence.
Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream Recipe FAQs
What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
For this comforting dish, bowtie pasta is the star, creating delightful shapes that hold onto the creamy sauce. If you’re looking for alternatives, penne or fusilli are great options, too, providing similar textures that are equally suited for this creamy blend.
How should I store leftovers of Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to retain moisture and ensure it stays deliciously creamy.
Can I freeze this dish?
Very! You can freeze your chicken bowties in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat from frozen, cook it on low heat, stirring gently and adding a bit of cream if it seems dry.
What if my sauce isn’t thickening properly?
If your sauce doesn’t thicken as expected, don’t worry! Make sure to let it simmer without rushing. Keep it on medium heat for about 3-4 minutes while stirring regularly until it coats the back of a spoon. If needed, you can also add a little extra Parmesan cheese to help with thickness.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! If you’re aiming for a vegetarian dish, feel free to swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu. Additionally, for those with dairy allergies, consider using nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan and dairy-free cream alternatives to keep it creamy without the lactose.
How can I customize this recipe to add more vegetables?
The more the merrier! Adding spinach or bell peppers can enhance both the nutrition and flavor of your Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties. Simply sauté the veggies alongside the chicken for a vibrant, healthy twist!
Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by filling a large pot with water and adding a generous amount of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil and add the bowtie pasta. Cook the pasta for 8-10 minutes until it reaches al dente, then drain.
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, allowing to simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
- Reduce the heat to low, and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted, then return the sautéed chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet, mixing well.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pasta mixture and cover with a lid. Heat on low for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.
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