As the aromatic scent of sautéed garlic filled my kitchen, I couldn’t help but feel a comforting rush of nostalgia wash over me. Nothing says “home” like a dish that wraps you in creamy warmth, and my Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream does just that. This recipe is a go-to for those busy weeknights when you crave something hearty yet quick—ready in just 30 minutes! With its customizable elements, it’s perfect for anyone from meat lovers to vegetarians. Imagine tender chicken, pasta, and a luscious cheese sauce mingling together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re serving it up for family dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. What variations will you try to make it your own?
Why is this chicken recipe a must-try?
Simplicity, This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Comforting flavors, The creamy, cheesy sauce wraps tender chicken and bowtie pasta in a warm embrace that delights every bite.
Customizable, Whether you prefer swapping chicken for chickpeas or experimenting with different pasta shapes, this recipe adapts to your taste.
Crowd-pleaser, Ideal for families or cozy dinners, it’s a dish everyone will love, just like Garlic Parmesan Chicken.
Nostalgic taste, With aromatic garlic and melted mozzarella, each bite reminds you of childhood comforts, perfect for any dinner gathering.
Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Bowtie Pasta – Creates a fun shape and texture; penne or fusilli work well as alternatives.
For the Chicken
• Olive Oil – Adds richness when sautéing the chicken; vegetable oil is a good substitute.
• Chicken Breast – Serves as the hearty protein; easily swapped for chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian take.
• Italian Seasoning – Elevates the flavor profile; dried herbs like basil or oregano can be used instead.
For the Sauce
• Garlic – Provides an aromatic kick; fresh garlic is preferred, but powdered can be a quick substitute.
• Butter – Gives the sauce its luscious base; margarine works in place of butter for a dairy-free option.
• Chicken Broth – Adds depth to the sauce; vegetable broth makes a great vegetarian alternative.
• Heavy Cream – Ensures creaminess; use half-and-half or cashew cream for a lighter dish.
• Parmesan Cheese – Infuses a salty, umami flavor; nutritional yeast is a fantastic vegan option.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully for that gooey, comforting texture; fresh mozzarella can enhance creaminess.
For Garnish
• Chopped Parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness; it brightens the dish before serving.
This delightful Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken recipe showcases the perfect blend of flavors that will satisfy your cravings and warm your heart!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the bowtie pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente. It should be firm yet tender. Drain the pasta in a colander, avoiding rinsing to keep the starch that helps the sauce adhere.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breast pieces to the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked, with internal temperature reaching 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium, and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt, then add 3-4 cloves of minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant and slightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic butter. Stir gently and bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken for about 3-4 minutes. Keep an eye on the sauce; it should start to bubble slightly and coat the back of a spoon.
Step 5: Incorporate the Cheese
Add 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the simmering sauce, stirring until completely melted and the sauce is creamy. Next, return the sautéed chicken to the skillet, mixing well to ensure it’s fully coated in the cheesy sauce, which should now be velvety and indulgent.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Toss the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet, using tongs to gently mix it with the chicken and sauce until every piece of pasta is well coated. If the sauce appears too thick, you can add a splash of chicken broth to achieve your desired consistency.
Step 7: Melt the Mozzarella
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pasta mixture in the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it heat on low for 2-3 minutes. This will allow the mozzarella to melt beautifully, forming a delightful, gooey layer on top.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once the mozzarella is melted, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken hot straight from the skillet, allowing everyone to enjoy this comforting, creamy dish right away.
Make Ahead Options
These Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream are perfect for meal prep, offering a delightful way to enjoy a comforting dinner with minimal last-minute effort! You can cook the pasta and sauté the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their quality. For the best results, prepare the creamy sauce without adding the mozzarella, refrigerating it separately as well. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and sauce in a skillet, toss in the cooked pasta, and melt the mozzarella on top for a quick and satisfying meal that tastes just as delicious as if it were freshly made!
Expert Tips for Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken
Perfect Pasta: Avoid rinsing the pasta after draining; the starch will help the sauce cling better to the bowtie pasta.
Chicken Check: Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to guarantee it’s safe to eat.
Creamy Consistency: For a lighter sauce, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or cashew cream. Keep some broth handy to adjust thickness as needed.
Garlic Gold: Be cautious when sautéing garlic; it only needs a minute until fragrant or it can become bitter.
Quick Leftovers: If reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to prevent the sauce from drying out and keep it creamy.
Let these tips shine through as you create a delicious Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken that everyone will crave again!
What to Serve with Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream
Savor a delightful meal by pairing flavors and textures that elevate your creamy dinner experience.
- Garlic Bread: The perfect side, with its crunchy crust and buttery interior, complements the rich, cheesy sauce beautifully. It’s like a warm embrace for your taste buds.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons offer a refreshing contrast to the creamy dish, helping to cleanse the palate.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies tossed in olive oil and herbs not only provide vibrant color but also add textures that enhance the comforting nature of the chicken dish.
- Steamed Asparagus: This bright, tender vegetable brings a lightness to the table while balancing the richness of the pasta, making every bite feel fresh.
- Zesty Lemonade: Refreshing and slightly tart, a glass of lemonade pairs wonderfully with the creamy mozzarella garlic butter chicken, cutting through the richness.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, this airy and decadent finish makes a delightful contrast to the savory meal, satisfying your sweet cravings without being overly heavy.
- Italian Wine: A light Pinot Grigio or a robust Chianti can enhance the meal, matching the Italian-inspired flavors of your dish perfectly.
- Garlic Parmesan Knots: These soft, buttery treats are perfect for mopping up any extra sauce, adding a fun and delicious touch to your dinner.
Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Variations
Feel free to have fun customizing this dish to suit your taste buds and dietary preferences!
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and toss in some sautéed spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Gluten-Free Twist: Swap out the bowtie pasta for gluten-free penne or fusilli, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream and vegetable broth instead of heavy cream and butter for a lactose-free version of this creamy dream.
- Kick of Spice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the garlic butter for a delightful heat that will elevate the flavors.
- Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme to enhance the flavor profile, providing an aromatic touch that brightens up the dish.
- Creamy Mushroom Addition: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for a delightful earthy flavor, perfect if you’re a fan of hearty textures.
- Extra Cheesy Goodness: Mix in a combination of cheeses such as gouda or cheddar for a richer, more indulgent sauce that will satisfy cheesiest cravings.
- Veggie-Packed Version: Incorporate a medley of your favorite veggies, such as zucchini, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes, into the stir for a nutritious boost.
With endless possibilities to explore, you can easily make this creamy Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken your own, just like with my Mushroom Chicken Soup or Garlic Butter Dinner. Happy cooking!
How to Store and Freeze Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep your Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken fresh, be sure to cool it down before sealing.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy this recipe later, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to separate portions for easy thawing.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your meal again, reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain creaminess and prevent drying out.
Enjoying Later: For best results, consume the dish within the recommended timeframes to savor the rich flavor and creamy texture of your Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken.
Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting bowtie pasta, look for ones that are firm and have a smooth, even texture. If you prefer something different, penne or fusilli also work beautifully. Make sure to check the expiration date on the package, and opt for whole grain or gluten-free options if necessary.
How should I store leftovers from my Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken?
Very! You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to allow the dish to cool at room temperature before refrigerating. If you think you won’t finish it in that time, consider freezing for later enjoyment.
Can I freeze Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, separate your servings into portion-sized freezer-safe containers and store them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then heat gently in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore creaminess and prevent drying.
What if my sauce is too thick?
No worries! If the sauce seems too thick while cooking, add a little chicken broth, a splash at a time, while stirring until you achieve your desired consistency. This will keep the sauce creamy and luscious, perfect for coating your pasta.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! To make this dish vegetarian, replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For lactose intolerance, you can use cashew cream in place of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. Always check the ingredients if allergies are a concern, especially with cheeses!
How long should I reheat my chicken to make sure it’s safe to eat?
Great question! When reheating, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. I often reheat on low heat and check with a food thermometer to guarantee it’s warmed through while maintaining its creamy texture.
Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken You’ll Crave Again
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the bowtie pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and do not rinse.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breast pieces and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium, and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring gently. Bring to a simmer and let it thicken for 3-4 minutes.
- Add 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted. Return the sautéed chicken to mix well with the sauce.
- Toss the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet, mixing until well coated. Add chicken broth if the sauce is too thick.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta and cover the skillet. Heat on low for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot straight from the skillet.
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