Save Tender chicken and bowtie pasta tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, topped with melted mozzarella for a comforting and flavorful dish.
I first made this chicken bowtie pasta on a weeknight when I needed something easy that everyone would actually eat. The garlic butter sauce quickly became a favorite with my kids.
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
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook bowtie pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup (60 ml) of pasta water.
- Season & Cook Chicken:
- Season chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tbsp of butter. Add chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Make Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add remaining 3 tbsp butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan, mixing until smooth.
- Combine:
- Return cooked chicken to the skillet, then add drained pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
- Add Cheese & Serve:
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over pasta and cover skillet. Let sit for 2 to 3 minutes, or until cheese melts. Sprinkle with chopped parsley, garnish with extra Parmesan and black pepper, and serve immediately.
Save My family loves gathering around the table while the mozzarella melts on top, creating a cheesy layer that everyone fights over for seconds!
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet with lid, strainer, wooden spoon or spatula, chefs knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains: Milk (butter, cream, Parmesan, mozzarella), Wheat (pasta). May contain: Egg (if using egg pasta). Always check product labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories, 620. Total Fat, 27 g. Carbohydrates, 54 g. Protein, 41 g.
Save This Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties dish is creamy, cheesy comfort for the whole family. Enjoy leftovers the next day for a delicious lunch.
Kitchen Help
- → What pasta works best for this dish?
Bowtie (farfalle) pasta is ideal as it holds the sauce well and complements the chicken pieces perfectly.
- → Can I substitute the mozzarella cheese?
Yes, mild provolone or fontina cheese can be used for a similar creamy melt and flavor profile.
- → How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Cook the chicken over medium-high heat just until golden and cooked through, avoiding overcooking by removing it once done.
- → Can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?
Adjust sauce consistency by adding reserved pasta water to loosen it or simmering longer for thickness.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor best?
Italian herbs like oregano and basil complement the garlic butter and mozzarella flavor beautifully.
- → Are there any good pairing suggestions?
This dish pairs well with a green salad and a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio for a balanced meal.