Craving a creamy, comforting pasta dish that doesn’t take hours to make? This Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce is a mouthful to say, but an even more delicious one to eat. Rich, silky mozzarella cream sauce coats tender bowtie pasta and seared garlic butter chicken chunks. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a cozy trattoria—without leaving your kitchen.

The texture contrast is what seals the deal here: crispy-edged chicken on soft, pillowy pasta all hugged by velvety sauce. This recipe balances hearty and light, savory and creamy, perfectly. Ideal for weeknight dinners, dinner guests, or any night you’re craving bold flavor with minimal fuss.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Getting the most out of this pasta dish starts with having the right tools:

Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy Pan: This is key for searing the chicken to get that golden, flavorful crust. Cast iron retains and distributes heat evenly.
Large Saucepan: To boil your bowtie pasta. Make sure it’s roomy enough so the pasta doesn’t stick together.
Medium Saucepan: Needed for building the mozzarella cream sauce. It allows controlled simmering and helps prevent curdling.
Tongs or Slotted Spoon: Ideal for flipping chicken evenly and lifting it without damaging the crispy crust.
Whisk: For emulsifying the sauce to silky perfection without lumps.

Each tool plays its part in making this dish rich in flavor and creamy in texture, while keeping the process easy and efficient.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce

Chicken Breast (boneless, skinless) – This is the protein heart of the dish. Its mild flavor pairs perfectly with creamy sauces.
Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle) – These little pasta “bows” hold onto the sauce beautifully, offering great texture and presentation.
Mozzarella Cheese (shredded) – It melts into the cream sauce, making it ultra-smooth and adding a stretchy, cheesy finish.
Heavy Cream – Essential for the base of the sauce. It gives the dish that rich, luscious mouthfeel.
Garlic (minced) – Brings sharp, savory depth and infuses the butter and chicken with bold aroma.
Unsalted Butter – Used to sear the chicken and build the base of the garlic sauce. It creates a silky, savory coating.
Olive Oil – Prevents the butter from burning and adds flavor during chicken searing.
Parsley (dried or fresh) – A fresh pop of color and a mild herbal note to cut through the richness.
Salt & Pepper – The classic duo for seasoning every layer of this dish.

How To Make the Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken breast chunks with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a cast iron skillet. Add the chicken and sear until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and reserve a splash of pasta water.

Step 3: Make the Mozzarella Cream Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt a little more butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Slowly stir in the shredded mozzarella until melted and smooth. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Add the cooked pasta to the cream sauce, stirring gently to coat. Top with the seared chicken and let it sit in the sauce for a few minutes to absorb flavor. Sprinkle parsley over the top before serving.

How to Serve and Store This Creamy Pasta Dish

For serving, plate the pasta warm with a generous spoonful of extra mozzarella cream sauce over the top. Arrange the garlic butter chicken chunks neatly across the pasta for an eye-catching presentation. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or even a touch of grated Parmesan can add a final flourish.

This dish is best served fresh, but leftovers store beautifully. Transfer any extras to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave to restore the sauce’s creamy texture without splitting.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I prevent the cream sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat low when adding and melting the cheese. Avoid boiling the sauce once the mozzarella is added, and stir consistently.

Can I substitute the mozzarella with another cheese?

Yes, provolone or Monterey Jack can work, though they may slightly change the flavor profile.

What other pasta shapes can I use?

While bowtie pasta is ideal for texture, penne, rotini, or shells also do a great job holding onto the sauce.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and the sauce ahead, but for best texture, cook the pasta fresh before serving.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The creamy texture and mild flavors make it a hit with kids, especially if you chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

What can I serve on the side?

Garlic bread, steamed green beans, or a crisp Caesar salad make excellent sides for this dish.

Want More Creamy Chicken Pasta Ideas?

You might also love my Easy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli, a spicy and comforting twist loaded with flavor and veggies.

Or try Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta—a fun, bite-sized take on classic creamy pasta.

If you’re after something with a rich, smoky depth, the One Skillet Smoky Cajun BBQ Chicken Pasta delivers in every bite.

For a slightly lighter version, the Creamy Turkey Noodle Soup has that same silky appeal but with a brothy base.

And for another bowtie-based delight, check out my Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta for a hearty, meaty variation.

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