Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties

Name: Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes; 2 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 1/2 cups heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

by Isabella Reed Published: June 30, 2024

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Let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties. This dish is like a warm hug on a plate! I remember the first time I made it for my family; the aroma of garlic and butter filled the kitchen, and I could see everyone’s faces light up as they took their first bite. It’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying, making it perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or special occasions when you want to impress your guests.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity and the way it brings people together. The combination of tender chicken, rich mozzarella, and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta in a luscious garlic butter sauce is irresistible. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it over and over again!

Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties - detail 1

Why You’ll Love Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties

First off, let’s talk about flavor! This dish is a delightful explosion of creamy, garlicky goodness that wraps around every piece of pasta and chicken, making each bite pure bliss. The blend of mozzarella and Parmesan creates a rich, cheesy experience you simply can’t resist. Seriously, it’s like a party in your mouth!

Another reason to fall in love with this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or impressing friends during a cozy get-together, Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties fits the bill perfectly. Plus, it’s so quick to whip up! In just about 35 minutes, you can serve up a hearty meal that looks and tastes gourmet without all the fuss.

And let’s not forget about leftovers! If there are any, they’re just as delicious the next day. The creaminess settles in, and the flavors deepen, making it even more irresistible. You can also easily tweak the spice level to suit your taste, whether you prefer a milder dish or a little kick. Trust me, once you try this pasta, you’ll be dreaming about it long after the last bite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make my delicious Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties, you’ll need the following ingredients:

12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle): This is the star of the dish! You want to cook it al dente for that perfect bite.
2 tablespoons olive oil: This adds flavor and helps in cooking the chicken. Go for a good quality extra virgin olive oil if you can!
1 lb chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized cubes. Boneless, skinless chicken works best for this recipe.
2 tablespoons butter: This is for that rich, creamy garlic sauce we all crave!
4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must! It infuses the dish with incredible flavor.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This adds a lovely herbal note. You can also use a mix of dried oregano and basil if you have those on hand.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Add to taste for a touch of heat!
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): If you like a little kick, this is your friend!
1 1/2 cups heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce luxuriously creamy. You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version.
1/2 cup chicken broth: Helps to create a saucy consistency and adds depth. Low-sodium is a good option.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This adds a savory note. Freshly grated is best for melting!
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: This gives the dish its melty, cheesy goodness!
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: For garnish and a pop of color. Fresh herbs always elevate a dish!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this mouthwatering Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties. Follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time!

Cooking the Pasta

First things first, let’s cook that bowtie pasta! Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt (this helps flavor the pasta), and bring it to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the 12 oz of bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes for al dente perfection. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. When it’s done, drain the pasta in a colander but don’t rinse it — we want to keep that starch for flavor and sauce adherence. Set it aside for now.

Preparing the Chicken

Next up, let’s cook the chicken! In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering (but not smoking!), add 1 lb of bite-sized chicken cubes. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and fully cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If you see any brown bits forming in the pan, that’s flavor gold! Just make sure not to overcrowd the skillet; if you need to, cook the chicken in batches.

Making the Garlic Butter Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, it’s time to create that heavenly garlic butter sauce! Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet along with 4 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and just starting to turn golden. Be careful here; garlic can burn quickly! Then, stir in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and the optional 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes if you want some heat. This is where the magic starts to happen, and the aroma will be absolutely irresistible!

Combining Ingredients

Now, let’s make this dish creamy and dreamy! Pour in 1 1/2 cups of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of chicken broth into the skillet. Bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to combine everything beautifully. Once it’s simmering, add in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and fully incorporates into the sauce. Finally, toss in your cooked bowtie pasta and 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir everything together until the pasta is well coated and the cheese is melted and gooey. It’s going to look so delicious! If the sauce is too thick, just add a splash more chicken broth to loosen it up. Garnish with fresh parsley, and voilà — dinner is served!

Variations

One of the best things about my Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties is how easy it is to make it your own! If you’re looking to mix things up, consider adding some sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a pop of color and extra nutrition. You can also swap out the chicken for shrimp or even roasted vegetables for a delightful vegetarian twist.

If you want to switch up the flavors, try adding sun-dried tomatoes or a splash of lemon juice for brightness! And for cheese lovers, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese — like gouda or fontina — for a unique twist. The possibilities are endless, so have fun customizing this dish to suit your taste buds!

Serving and Storage Tips

When it comes to serving my Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties, a simple side salad or some crusty garlic bread pairs perfectly. The refreshing crunch of a green salad really balances the richness of the dish, while the bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. I love to serve it warm, right out of the skillet, and don’t forget to sprinkle a little extra parsley on top for a pop of color!

As for leftovers, if you’re lucky enough to have any, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back that creamy texture. You can also freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Trust me, it’s just as delicious the next day!

Helpful Notes

Here are a few tips to ensure your Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties turn out perfectly every time! If you prefer a milder dish, feel free to skip the red pepper flakes or adjust the amount to your taste. You can always add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper on top when serving for those who enjoy a little heat!

If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider swapping out the heavy cream for half-and-half or even a combination of Greek yogurt and chicken broth for a creamy yet healthier alternative. And don’t forget about customizing the cheeses! Mixing in some ricotta or even goat cheese can give a delightful twist. Lastly, if you want to make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free bowtie pasta, and you’re all set!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! You can freeze Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.

2. What if I don’t have heavy cream?
No worries! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of Greek yogurt and chicken broth for a lighter alternative. Just be careful not to let it boil too aggressively if using yogurt to prevent curdling.

3. Can I use other types of pasta?
Definitely! While bowtie pasta is my favorite, you can use any pasta shape you have on hand, like penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta package instructions.

4. How can I make this dish dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, you can use coconut cream in place of heavy cream and omit the cheeses. You can also try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy!

5. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in some sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. They add great flavor and nutrition while making the dish even more colorful!

Final Thoughts

There you have it, my friends! Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties is not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to your table. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household just like it is in mine. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a cozy date night, or even a special gathering, this pasta dish never fails to impress.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this delicious adventure. I can’t wait for you to taste it and hear all about your own kitchen success stories! Trust me, once you make this dish, it’ll quickly find a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. Happy cooking!

Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties