Save Tender chicken and bowtie pasta tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce topped with melted mozzarella for a comforting and flavorful dish.
I first created this recipe on a chilly weeknight when I was craving something creamy and satisfying but with minimal effort. Ever since this dish has been on repeat because it comes together fast and hits all the right comfort food notes.
Ingredients
- Bowtie pasta: 12 oz (340 g) cooked al dente
- Boneless skinless chicken breast: 1 lb (450 g) cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Dried Italian herbs: 1/2 tsp (oregano basil or mixed)
- Unsalted butter: 4 tbsp (60 g) divided
- Garlic: 4 cloves minced
- Low-sodium chicken broth: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Heavy cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup (50 g)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1 cup (100 g)
- Chopped fresh parsley: 2 tbsp plus more for garnish
- Freshly ground black pepper: to taste for serving
- Extra Parmesan cheese: for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta:
- Boil bowtie pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/4 cup (60 ml) pasta water.
- Season Chicken:
- Combine chicken pieces with salt black pepper and Italian herbs.
- Sauté Chicken:
- Melt 1 tbsp butter in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Make Sauce:
- Reduce heat to medium add remaining 3 tbsp butter and minced garlic. Sauté 1 minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze:
- Add chicken broth bring to a simmer and scrape up browned bits.
- Add Dairy:
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan & mix until smooth.
- Combine:
- Return chicken add drained pasta. Toss everything adding reserved pasta water as needed.
- Add Mozzarella:
- Sprinkle mozzarella over pasta cover skillet and let sit 2–3 minutes until cheese melts.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Sprinkle with parsley. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and black pepper.
Save This is always the first dish to disappear at family dinner and was a huge hit when I brought it to a potluck. The kids especially love the cheesy topping!
Variations
Swap half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter sauce. Add sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. Use rotisserie chicken to save even more time.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta is perfect with a crisp green salad and garlic bread. Pair it with a light white wine such as Pinot Grigio for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information
Each serving has about 620 calories 27 g total fat 54 g carbohydrates and 41 g protein. Nutrition may vary depending on brands used.
Save Mozzarella garlic butter chicken bowties is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy creamy cheesy comfort on any busy night!
Recipe Guide
- → What type of pasta works best in this dish?
Bowtie (farfalle) pasta is ideal as it holds the creamy garlic butter sauce well and complements the tender chicken pieces.
- → How can I ensure the chicken is tender and flavorful?
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs before cooking. Sautéing until golden seals in juices and enhances flavor.
- → Can I substitute the cheese in the sauce?
Parmesan and mozzarella provide the best balance of flavor and creaminess, but mild white cheeses can be used as alternatives.
- → How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
Reserve some pasta water when draining and add it to the sauce as needed to loosen it and maintain a smooth consistency.
- → What side dishes pair well with this meal?
A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables complement the richness, and a light white wine enhances the overall flavors.