When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the savory delight of Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream. This recipe encapsulates everything you love about pasta and chicken, elevating them into a creamy concoction that is both hearty and comforting. The bowtie pasta, also known as farfalle, beautifully holds the rich sauce, while tender pieces of chicken and the melting mozzarella add layers of flavor. Not only is this dish delicious, but it is also incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner.
The blend of garlic, cream, and Italian seasoning infuses the chicken, creating a mouth-watering experience that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. Plus, it’s gluten-free, accommodating various dietary needs. With just a few key ingredients, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal in about 30 minutes—what could be better? Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this dish!
Why You’ll Love This Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The combination of garlic, butter, and creamy cheese creates a savory flavor profile that is hard to resist.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or protein variations.
- Kid-Friendly: With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
- Gluten-Free: Using gluten-free pasta allows those with dietary restrictions to enjoy this delicious meal.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into cooking, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools and ingredients. Ensure you have a large pot for boiling the pasta, a skillet for sautéing the chicken and mixing the sauce, and a colander for draining the pasta. A good quality chef’s knife will help you chop the chicken effortlessly, while measuring cups and spoons will ensure precise ingredient quantities. Prepare your workspace by clearing off counters and placing all your ingredients within reach. This will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
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
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Once at a rolling boil, add the bowtie pasta and a pinch of salt. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. This typically takes around 8-10 minutes. When done, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In the same skillet, drizzle with olive oil and heat over medium-high. Add the seasoned chicken cubes to the skillet, ensuring they are evenly spread out. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate for later use.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. It’s essential not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter. Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly for 3-4 minutes. Afterward, add the Parmesan cheese gradually, mixing until it becomes creamy and smooth.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the sautéed chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the creamy sauce. Then, add the al dente bowtie pasta, tossing until every piece is well coated in the delightful mixture. Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, cover, and let it sit for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese melts deliciously over the chicken and pasta.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once the mozzarella is melted, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant touch and serve hot. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or garlic bread!
Variations
- Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp, turkey, or crispy tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Vegetables: Include bell peppers, spinach, or peas to add color and nutrition.
- Spices: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or fresh basil for additional flavor layers.
Cooking Notes
- Always taste your sauce before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.
- If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a little more chicken broth or cream.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this dish with a side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta perfectly.
Tips
- For an extra creamy texture, add a splash of cream while mixing in the cheese.
- To save time, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 700 per serving
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 800mg
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat on the stovetop before serving.
Can I use dairy-free alternatives?
Absolutely! Substitute with dairy-free cream and cheese for a lactose-free option.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat level.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish can be frozen; however, the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Conclusion
Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream is a show-stopping meal that combines simplicity and flavor in an unforgettable way. Whether you need a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe checks all the boxes. With its creamy texture and delicious flavors, it’s bound to become a new family favorite. Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below, and let us know how your dish turned out or any tasty variations you tried!
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Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This creamy and hearty dish is a comforting blend of chicken and pasta, perfect for any family meal.
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
Instructions
- Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Once at a rolling boil, add the bowtie pasta and a pinch of salt. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet, drizzle with olive oil and heat over medium-high. Add seasoned chicken cubes and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet.
- Lower heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. Melt, then add minced garlic, sautéing for a minute. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, then mix in Parmesan cheese until creamy.
- Return chicken to skillet, combine with sauce, then add bowtie pasta, mixing well. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top, cover, and let sit for 2-3 minutes until cheese melts.
- Remove from heat, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
Taste your sauce before serving and adjust seasoning as needed. If too thick, thin with broth or cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 700 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 30 g