Craving something irresistibly creamy, cheesy, and loaded with garlicky comfort? Let me introduce you to this mouthwatering Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream — a dish that checks all the boxes: tender chicken, silky pasta, and a velvety sauce so good you’ll want to lick the spoon clean.

This recipe combines golden-seared chicken with buttery garlic richness, tossed through delicate bowtie pasta and enveloped in a velvety mozzarella cream sauce. It’s the kind of dinner that transforms your weeknight meal into a gourmet escape. Cozy, comforting, and absolutely indulgent, this one’s destined to become a regular favorite.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this creamy chicken pasta adventure, having the right tools at hand makes the process smoother and the results more delicious:

Large Nonstick Skillet: Perfect for evenly searing the chicken to golden brown without sticking.
Medium Saucepan or Pot: Ideal for boiling the bowtie pasta to al dente.
Whisk: Essential for blending the cheese and cream into a smooth, lump-free sauce.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Helps in stirring without scratching your nonstick surfaces.
Colander: For draining the pasta efficiently.
Tongs: Great for flipping chicken pieces without losing any of the delicious crust.

Having these tools on standby ensures that every step, from sautéing to saucing, is efficient and stress-free.

Ingredients for the Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle) – These whimsical pasta shapes are ideal for holding onto creamy sauces, making every bite rich and coated.
Chicken Breast – Sliced into bite-sized chunks, chicken adds the hearty protein base for this dish.
Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully into the sauce, bringing that signature stringy, cheesy finish.
Heavy Cream – Forms the creamy backbone of the sauce, giving it its luscious, indulgent texture.
Garlic – Sautéed in butter, it infuses the entire dish with warm, savory aroma.
Butter – Creates the rich garlic base and helps in browning the chicken for added depth.
Olive Oil – Ensures the chicken gets a beautiful sear without burning the butter.
Salt & Pepper – Basic but crucial, these balance the flavors in both chicken and sauce.
Fresh Parsley – Sprinkled in at the end, it adds a pop of green and a fresh contrast.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – For a gentle kick, if you love a hint of heat.

How To Make the Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken chunks generously with salt and pepper. In a large nonstick skillet, heat a mix of olive oil and butter over medium-high. Add the chicken and sear on both sides until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

While the chicken cooks, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, melt more butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Be careful not to brown it — you want a soft, mellow garlic flavor.

Step 4: Build the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and whisk continuously. Let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken slightly. Stir in the shredded mozzarella until melted and smooth. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce needs loosening.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the drained pasta and seared chicken back into the skillet. Toss to coat every piece in the cheesy cream. Finish with a sprinkle of parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.

How to Serve and Store Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

Serve this creamy bowtie pasta straight from the skillet while it’s hot and silky. For presentation, garnish with extra chopped parsley and a light drizzle of olive oil or freshly cracked black pepper. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.

Storing is easy: allow leftovers to cool fully before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce and keep it smooth. This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the cream base, so enjoy it fresh within the week.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the sauce from separating?

Make sure the cream isn’t boiled on high heat. Simmer it gently and whisk as you go. Adding cheese slowly and stirring constantly helps maintain a smooth sauce.

Can I use another pasta shape?

Yes! While bowties are ideal for their texture and look, penne, rotini, or shells also hold sauce beautifully.

Is it okay to use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely. Just add the cooked chicken during the final toss in the cream sauce so it stays juicy and doesn’t overcook.

What vegetables go well with this recipe?

Steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or even roasted cherry tomatoes pair wonderfully, adding brightness and balance.

Can I make this dish lighter?

Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt. Just expect a slightly thinner, tangier sauce.

What cheese alternatives work?

Try Monterey Jack or provolone for a different melt and flavor, or add a bit of Parmesan for extra umami.

Want More Creamy Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If creamy, comforting pasta is your thing, there’s a world of options waiting for you:

You might enjoy the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta if you’re after a meatier spin with a rich tomato profile. Or try the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta for something with bold spice and cream.

Looking for even more garlicky goodness? Don’t miss the Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni — it’s hearty and layered with flavor. And if you’re in the mood for a fun casserole twist, the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe blends heat, cream, and layers of pasta like no other.

And for another chicken-pasta hybrid that’s got weeknight magic written all over it, the Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce hits every creamy note.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your comfort food boards for easy access later. Just click the Pin button.

When you make it, let me know how it turned out. Did you add mushrooms or swap in rotini? Drop a comment below — I’d love to see how you made it yours!

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