Cheesy garlic butter chicken bowties with mozzarella cream sauce made easy!

Why you’ll love this recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple, satisfying, and packed with creamy, cheesy flavor. I enjoy how the garlic butter enhances the chicken while the mozzarella cream sauce brings everything together. It’s also a one-pan style meal after cooking the pasta, which makes cleanup easier.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups bowtie pasta
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• salt and pepper to taste
• fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

I start by cooking the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then I drain it and set it aside.

In a large skillet, I heat the olive oil over medium heat. I add the chicken pieces, season them with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until they are browned and fully cooked. Then I remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, I melt 2 tablespoons of butter and add the minced garlic. I sauté it for about a minute until it becomes fragrant.

I pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Then I stir in the Italian seasoning and add salt and pepper to taste.

I gradually add the mozzarella cheese, stirring continuously until it melts into a smooth and creamy sauce.

I return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the cooked pasta. I toss everything together so it’s well coated in the sauce.

Finally, I stir in the remaining butter until it melts and blends into the dish.

I serve it hot and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Servings and timing

I get about 4 servings from this recipe, and it takes around 30 minutes total, including prep and cooking time.

Variations

I like to switch things up by adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for extra texture and nutrition. Sometimes I mix in parmesan cheese for a sharper flavor. If I want a little heat, I add red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When I reheat it, I add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and keep it smooth.

For best results, I reheat on the stovetop, but the microwave works for quick portions.

Faqs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

I can use any pasta I like, but I find shapes like penne or rotini work especially well with the creamy sauce.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

I can use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken to save time, and just add it when combining everything.

Why is my sauce too thick?

I add a little milk or pasta water to thin it out if it becomes too thick.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

I can prepare it ahead, but I find it tastes best fresh since the sauce is creamiest right after cooking.

Can I freeze this recipe?

I can freeze it, but I notice the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly when reheated.

Conclusion

I find this Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Mozzarella Cream Sauce to be a comforting and easy meal that always delivers on flavor. I love how creamy, garlicky, and satisfying it is, and I enjoy making it when I want something quick but delicious. It’s a dish I keep coming back to for simple, cozy dinners.