This Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce is a comforting, restaurant-quality meal you can make right in your kitchen. Tender pieces of chicken, golden in buttery garlic, are tossed with bowtie pasta in a luscious mozzarella cream sauce that’s rich, silky, and absolutely irresistible. I first made this dish on a chilly evening when I wanted something indulgent yet easy, and it’s been a repeat favorite ever since. The garlic butter infuses the chicken with incredible flavor, while the creamy, cheesy sauce clings perfectly to every pasta bowtie. It’s hearty, flavorful, and ready in less than 40 minutes—a true family-pleasing dinner that tastes like comfort in a bowl.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pasta combines the best of creamy and savory flavors in one simple dish. You’ll love how the mozzarella cream sauce comes together easily while the pasta and chicken cook, making cleanup a breeze. The garlic butter gives the chicken rich depth, while the stretchy mozzarella and touch of cream create that perfect melt-in-your-mouth sauce. It’s versatile too—great for weeknights, dinner parties, or when you just want a cozy meal without the fuss.
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Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce: A Weeknight Pasta Worth Craving
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A rich and flavorful Garlic Butter Chicken Bowtie Pasta tossed in a creamy mozzarella sauce with tender chicken, garlic, and butter for a comforting and satisfying one-pan meal.
Ingredients
- 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the bowtie pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce heat to low, then gradually whisk in mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth, creating a creamy sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, tossing until well coated in the sauce.
- Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sprinkle with red pepper flakes or drizzle with garlic butter before serving.
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time on prep.
- Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter version.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a simple side salad.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pan
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Each ingredient in this dish contributes to its creamy, garlicky perfection. Here’s a closer look:
Bowtie pasta (farfalle) – The fun shape holds onto the sauce beautifully, making every bite creamy and satisfying.
Chicken breast – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. Slice them thinly so they cook quickly and stay tender.
Butter – Forms the base of the sauce and infuses both the chicken and pasta with rich, comforting flavor.
Garlic – Freshly minced garlic adds warmth and depth, perfectly complementing the buttery sauce.
Heavy cream – Creates the creamy base for the mozzarella sauce. It’s what gives the dish its velvety texture.
Mozzarella cheese – The star of the sauce. Melts beautifully to create that stretchy, gooey consistency that makes this pasta so satisfying.
Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the creaminess and balances the richness of the mozzarella.
Chicken broth – Used to cook the sauce and pasta, deepening the savory notes and keeping everything moist.
Olive oil – Helps sear the chicken evenly without burning the butter.
Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the sauce to perfection.
Parsley (optional) – Adds a touch of freshness and color before serving.
Directions
Cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.
In a large skillet, melt half the butter with olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken, season with salt and black pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Gradually stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, whisking until melted and smooth. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add the cooked bowtie pasta and mix well until everything is evenly coated.
Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan before serving. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4–5 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to bring back the sauce’s smooth texture. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may cause the cheese to separate.
Variations and Customizations
Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Twist
Add fresh spinach and chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a pop of color and tangy contrast.
Spicy Garlic Chicken Bowties
Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a subtle, spicy kick.
Bacon Lover’s Version
Add crispy bacon crumbles for smoky flavor and extra richness.
Mushroom and Herb Variation
Sauté mushrooms with the garlic and finish with fresh basil or thyme for an earthy, aromatic touch.
Lighter Version
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or evaporated milk for a slightly lighter but still creamy sauce.
Cheese Lover’s Upgrade
Mix in a handful of shredded provolone or fontina for an even more indulgent, cheesy flavor.
Lemon-Garlic Version
Add a squeeze of lemon juice and zest before serving to brighten the flavors.
Vegetarian Adaptation
Skip the chicken and load up with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or asparagus.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work great if you don’t have bowties.
2. What kind of mozzarella should I use?
Low-moisture shredded mozzarella melts best and blends smoothly into the sauce.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but the sauce thickens as it sits. Reheat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen it.
4. How do I keep the cheese from clumping?
Add the mozzarella gradually and stir continuously over low heat to ensure it melts evenly.
5. Can I use milk instead of cream?
You can, though the sauce will be thinner. Add a bit more cheese to maintain creaminess.
6. What’s the best chicken cut for this dish?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work perfectly.
7. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely—spinach, broccoli, or peas make great additions.
8. How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Cook it over medium heat and stir constantly. Garlic burns quickly and turns bitter.
9. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure the broth is gluten-free.
10. What side dishes pair well with it?
Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables make excellent sides.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce is the definition of creamy comfort. With tender chicken, rich garlic butter, and a luxurious mozzarella sauce that coats every bite, it’s a dish that feels special but is easy enough for any night of the week. Whether you serve it for family dinner or date night, its combination of cheesy indulgence and garlicky goodness makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Simple ingredients, one pan, and unforgettable flavor—this pasta is bound to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.
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