Warm, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy, this Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream is the kind of weeknight dinner that feels like a celebration. Tender, well-seasoned chicken meets al dente bowtie pasta in a luxuriously smooth cream sauce that is studded with melted mozzarella and savory Parmesan. The aroma of garlic and a hint of smoked paprika fills the kitchen as the sauce simmers, promising a rich mouthfeel and a comforting blend of flavors. The pasta soaks up the sauce for a silky texture while a quick broil gives the top a bubbly, golden finish. This dish is ideal for family dinners, casual dinner parties, or any night when you want something cozy yet impressive. If you love creamy pasta dinners with a garlic butter flair, try pairing it with a similar hearty recipe like garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni for more inspiration.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts,
  Tender chicken breasts provide lean protein and slice beautifully for serving.

• 1 lb bowtie pasta,
  Bowtie pasta holds sauce in its folds and adds a playful texture.

• 4 cups chicken broth,
  Adds savory depth and helps create the sauce base.

• 1 cup heavy cream,
  Gives the sauce its rich, silky body and creamy mouthfeel.

• 4 oz cream cheese,
  Adds tangy creaminess and helps thicken the sauce.

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese,
  Melts smoothly for gooey, stringy cheese pull and mild flavor.

• 2 tbsp olive oil,
  Used to coat and season the chicken for browning.

• 4 cloves garlic, minced,
  Fresh garlic perfumes the sauce with bright, savory aroma.

• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning,
  Brings a warm, slightly spicy seasoning to the chicken.

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika,
  Adds a subtle smoky depth and color.

• 1/4 tsp black pepper,
  Ground black pepper for gentle heat and seasoning.

• Salt to taste,
  Essential for balancing flavors, add gradually and taste.

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese,
  Adds nutty, salty complexity and helps thicken the sauce.

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour,
  Combined with milk to form a slurry that thickens the sauce.

• 1/4 cup milk,
  Mixed with flour to make a smooth slurry for thickening.

• Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes,
  Adds a touch of heat if you like a little warmth in the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry and season with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Make sure each piece is evenly coated for consistent flavor.

2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the seasoned chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes total. Transfer to a plate and set aside. Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan so the chicken browns instead of steams.

3. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside. Reserve a small cup of pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later.

4. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Cook just until the garlic becomes aromatic and slightly golden to avoid bitterness.

5. In a bowl, whisk together flour and milk to make a slurry, then add to the skillet with garlic and stir until thickened. Whisk continuously so no lumps form.

6. Gradually stir in chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Simmer gently until the sauce starts to thicken and becomes creamy.

7. Stir in cream cheese and mozzarella until melted and smooth, then add Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and optional red pepper flakes to taste. Tip: Keep stirring until cheese is fully incorporated for a silky texture.

8. Slice the cooked chicken and add back to the skillet along with the cooked pasta, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

9. Preheat the broiler and transfer the mixture to a baking dish, topping with remaining mozzarella. Broil until cheese is bubbly and browned, 2 to 4 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.

10. Let rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the sauce settle and makes it easier to plate.

During cooking, you might enjoy a simple buttery side like cheesy garlic butter corn on the cob for a classic pairing.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: Approximately 800 kcal per serving

For another comfort pasta with bold flavors, see this garlic butter steak tips with cheesy rigatoni idea.

Tips, Storage & Variations

• Tips: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting and flavor. If the sauce becomes too thick after resting, stir in a little reserved pasta water or extra milk to loosen it. Slice the chicken against the grain for tender pieces.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to revive the sauce.

• Freezing: This dish freezes reasonably well. Cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

• Flavor variations using existing ingredients only:

  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicier kick.
  • Increase Parmesan for a sharper, nuttier profile.
  • Use extra mozzarella on top for a more intensely gooey broil.
    For a simple side idea that complements these flavors, try the cheesy garlic butter corn on the cob recipe.

FAQ

1. How long does the chicken need to cook?
   Cook the seasoned chicken about 6 to 8 minutes total over medium heat until golden and cooked through.

2. Can I use a different pasta shape?
   Yes, any pasta that holds sauce works well, but do not change the quantity of pasta listed.

3. How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?
   Simmer gently and stir constantly when adding cheeses, and avoid boiling the sauce hard.

4. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
   Yes, portion into containers and refrigerate up to 3 days for easy reheating.

5. Can I skip the broiler step?
   Yes, you can serve directly from the skillet, but broiling gives a bubbly, browned cheese topping.

People Also Ask

1. What temperature should the broiler be set to?
   Use your oven’s high broil setting and watch carefully, as broilers vary.

2. Can I substitute half and half for heavy cream?
   Half and half is thinner, which will produce a lighter sauce but keep the same quantities for a similar result.

3. Should I cook the pasta fully before mixing with the sauce?
   Cook pasta to al dente according to package instructions so it finishes cooking in the sauce without getting mushy.

4. How can I make the sauce thicker?
   Whisk the flour and milk slurry well and simmer until it reaches the desired thickness before adding cheese.

5. How much salt should I add?
   Season to taste, starting with a small amount and adjusting after the cheeses are incorporated, since they add saltiness.

6. Can I shred my own mozzarella?
   Yes, freshly shredded mozzarella melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making this Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream recipe for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal. If you want to see another take on garlic butter chicken with cheesy toppings, check out this version at Baked Garlic Butter Chicken with Mozzarella for baking inspiration. For the original inspiration and a complete printable recipe, visit Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream. Please try the recipe, share your results, and enjoy a cozy, delicious meal with loved ones.