Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken

Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties bring together tender pieces of chicken and al dente bowtie pasta, all enveloped in a luxuriously rich garlic butter sauce. Topped with melted mozzarella, this comforting Italian-American dish offers a delightful blend of creamy, savory flavors that make every bite a celebration. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, its easy preparation ensures you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying a hearty meal with loved ones.

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This dish not only satisfies your hunger but also invites you to savor the textures of tender chicken paired beautifully with the slightly chewy bowtie pasta. The subtle herbs and fresh parsley garnish elevate each plate, bringing brightness to every forkful.

Ingredients

• Pasta
  • 12 oz (340 g) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• Chicken
  • 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, or mixed)
• Sauce
  • 4 tbsp (60 g) unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
• For Serving
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Extra Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the bowtie pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup (60 ml) of pasta water.

2. Season the chicken

Season chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs.

3. Cook the chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tbsp butter. Add chicken and cook 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

4. Sauté garlic

Reduce heat to medium, add remaining 3 tbsp butter. Add minced garlic and sauté 1 minute until fragrant.

5. Add broth

Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer, scraping pan to loosen browned bits.

6. Make sauce creamy

Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan until smooth.

7. Combine chicken and pasta

Return cooked chicken to skillet, add drained pasta. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed to loosen sauce.

8. Melt mozzarella

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over pasta, cover skillet. Let sit 2–3 minutes until cheese melts.

9. Garnish and serve

Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and freshly ground black pepper.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream to reduce richness without sacrificing creaminess. To add color and nutrition, stir in sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes right before adding the mozzarella. If you prefer a sturdier pasta texture, reserve less pasta water or cook pasta slightly firmer.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is versatile and forgiving. You can swap bowtie pasta for penne or fusilli if preferred. For herb variations, try fresh basil or Italian seasoning blends. Incorporate extra veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor and texture. To make this gluten-free, substitute with your favorite gluten-free pasta, keeping in mind this dish does contain dairy.

Serviervorschläge

Pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. For beverages, a light white wine such as Pinot Grigio complements the creamy garlic sauce beautifully. Garnish generously with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan to elevate presentation and flavor.

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This Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties recipe blends ease and elegance in every spoonful. With simple ingredients transformed into a luscious meal, it's sure to become a beloved staple in your dinner rotation. Enjoy the perfect harmony of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy richness that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Recipe Q&A

→ What type of pasta works best?

Bowtie (farfalle) pasta is ideal for this dish as its shape holds the creamy sauce well.

→ How can I ensure the chicken stays tender?

Cook the chicken over medium-high heat just until golden and cooked through to keep it juicy.

→ Can I substitute mozzarella with another cheese?

Yes, cheeses like fontina or provolone offer a similar melt and creamy texture.

→ Is there a way to lighten the sauce?

Using half-and-half instead of heavy cream reduces richness while maintaining creaminess.

→ How do I adjust the sauce consistency?

Reserve some pasta water when draining and add it gradually to loosen the sauce if needed.

→ What herbs complement this dish?

Dried Italian herbs like oregano and basil blend perfectly, with fresh parsley added for garnish.