There are nights when all I want is a meal that feels indulgent without being overly complicated. Bowtie pasta has always had a special place in my kitchen, not just because of its pretty shape but because it holds creamy sauces so beautifully. I still remember the first time I made a dish like this for my family. It was one of those evenings when everyone was a little tired, and I wanted to surprise them with something hearty and satisfying.
The chicken was seared golden in garlic butter until the edges turned just the right amount of crispy, and the aroma filled the house before I even finished cooking the pasta. When the creamy sauce came together with cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan, I knew I had found a weeknight favorite. My kids loved twirling the bowties in the sauce, and my husband kept sneaking extra bites straight from the pan.
Essential Elements and Equipment
To make this dish as creamy, flavorful, and comforting as possible, here are the essential elements you’ll need:
- Bowtie pasta (farfalle): Its shape is perfect for holding onto the cheesy sauce.
- Chicken breasts: Bite-sized pieces cook quickly and soak up the Cajun seasoning.
- Butter and olive oil: A combination that creates richness and helps the chicken get a golden sear.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic deepens the flavor of the cream sauce.
- Cajun seasoning, paprika, black pepper, and salt: These seasonings give a balanced kick without overwhelming the sauce.
- Heavy cream and chicken broth: They create the base of the creamy sauce.
- Cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan: Together, they make the sauce velvety, gooey, and irresistibly cheesy.
- Fresh parsley: Adds brightness and color right before serving.
For tools, you’ll want a large skillet (nonstick or cast iron), a pot for boiling pasta, a good whisk for the sauce, and a sturdy wooden spoon for tossing everything together.
What Makes This Recipe Work
This recipe shines because of the way each element complements the other. Here are a few key reasons it works so well:
- Golden chicken: Searing the chicken in butter and olive oil ensures a juicy center with flavorful, crisp edges.
- Garlic butter base: Garlic sautéed in butter lays the foundation for the sauce, giving it depth and richness.
- Cajun seasoning: The touch of Cajun spice brings just enough heat to balance the creamy cheese.
- Layered cheese flavors: Cream cheese adds body, mozzarella provides stretch and melt, and Parmesan sharpens the flavor with a nutty edge.
- Pasta choice: Bowties cling to the sauce in every fold, ensuring each bite is coated.
- Finishing butter: Stirring in butter at the end makes the sauce glossy and restaurant-level creamy.
- Balanced consistency: With chicken broth and a touch of cream cheese, the sauce avoids becoming too heavy.
This combination creates the kind of pasta dish that doesn’t just fill you up but keeps you going back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound bowtie pasta
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley
Preparation
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, according to package directions. Drain well, then set aside.
Step 2: While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season them with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. This step makes the sauce deeply flavorful, so take your time without burning the garlic.
Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Add the softened cream cheese and whisk until it melts and the sauce is smooth. Bring it to a gentle simmer, letting the flavors come together.
Step 5: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in 3/4 cup of mozzarella and all of the Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the sauce becomes creamy and glossy, with no lumps.
Step 6: Return the cooked pasta and seared chicken to the skillet. Toss everything well so each bowtie gets coated in the cheesy cream sauce.
Step 7: Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of mozzarella over the top. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes, until the cheese melts into gooey pockets.
Step 8: Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted. This final step gives the sauce a silky finish. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Variations You Can Try
One of the best parts about pasta dishes like this is how adaptable they are. You can make small changes based on your family’s tastes, what you have in the pantry, or even dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:
- Protein swaps: Try shrimp, Italian sausage, or even rotisserie chicken if you want something different.
- Vegetable boost: Add spinach, broccoli florets, or roasted bell peppers for extra nutrients and color.
- Milder version: Reduce or skip the Cajun seasoning if your family prefers less spice. You can replace it with just Italian seasoning and garlic powder for a gentler flavor.
- Spicier twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to give it extra heat.
- Cheese variations: Swap mozzarella for provolone, Monterey Jack, or fontina to create a new cheesy depth.
- Gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free bowtie pasta. The sauce works just as beautifully.
- Dairy-free: Replace cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheeses to keep the creamy texture without traditional dairy.
This dish truly works as a canvas, you can take the base and make it your own.
How to Serve
When it comes to serving Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Creamy Mozzarella Sauce, the presentation and pairings really complete the meal. Here are some ideas:
- Side salads: A crisp Caesar salad or a simple garden salad balances the richness.
- Garlic bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
- Roasted veggies: Pair with roasted zucchini, asparagus, or green beans for a fresh bite.
- Lighter options: Serve alongside steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach to keep things balanced.
- Family-style: Serve everything straight from the skillet at the center of the table. It makes dinner casual, cozy, and inviting.
- Lunch leftovers: This reheats well, so you can portion it into containers for lunches the next day.
No matter how you serve it, the dish stands strong on its own but loves the company of something fresh and crunchy on the side.
Tips for the Best Results
Cooking pasta dishes at home doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. These practical tips will help you get the best flavor and texture every time:
- Season your pasta water: Salting the water well makes a big difference in flavor.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Sear it until golden and juicy. Overcooked chicken can turn dry.
- Use room-temperature cream cheese: This ensures it melts smoothly into the sauce.
- Reserve pasta water: It’s the secret to adjusting sauce thickness without losing creaminess.
- Add cheese slowly: Stir in cheeses gradually on low heat for a silky sauce.
- Reheat gently: If reheating leftovers, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
- Garnish before serving: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra Parmesan makes the plate feel restaurant-worthy.
Following these small details will elevate your pasta to the next level.
Cooking Notes
- Always let the chicken rest a minute or two before slicing so the juices stay inside.
- Make sure to cook pasta just until al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Low and slow is key when melting cheeses into the sauce; rushing can cause it to break.
- If you like a baked finish, transfer the dish to a baking dish, top with more mozzarella, and bake until bubbly.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 650 per serving
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fat: 32g
- Sodium: 640mg
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
FAQs
1. Can I use a different pasta shape instead of bowties?
Absolutely. Penne, rotini, or shells would all work. Bowties hold the sauce well, but any pasta you love can be used.
2. What if I don’t have cream cheese?
You can substitute mascarpone or even a little sour cream. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will still be creamy and rich.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance. Just store it covered in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to bring the sauce back to life.
4. How do I make it lighter?
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half, and reduce the butter by half. You can also add more vegetables to stretch the portions without extra richness.
Conclusion
Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Creamy Mozzarella Sauce is the kind of dish that turns an ordinary evening into something memorable. It has the perfect mix of tender, seasoned chicken and pasta coated in a velvety sauce that clings to every bite. What makes it even better is how easy it is to prepare in just half an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights yet indulgent enough for a weekend treat.
When I make this for my family, it’s always a hit. The kids love the cheesy bowties, and my husband raves about the juicy chicken. It’s one of those meals that feels both comforting and special. If you’re looking for a recipe that checks all the boxes: creamy, flavorful, family-friendly, and easy, this one belongs in your kitchen.
Next time you’re wondering what to make for dinner, grab some bowtie pasta, a few pantry staples, and this recipe. I promise, your table will be filled with smiles and maybe even requests for seconds.
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Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Creamy Mozzarella Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound bowtie pasta
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, according to package directions. Drain well, then set aside.
Step 2: While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season them with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. This step makes the sauce deeply flavorful, so take your time without burning the garlic.
Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Add the softened cream cheese and whisk until it melts and the sauce is smooth. Bring it to a gentle simmer, letting the flavors come together.
Step 5: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in 3/4 cup of mozzarella and all of the Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the sauce becomes creamy and glossy, with no lumps.
Step 6: Return the cooked pasta and seared chicken to the skillet. Toss everything well so each bowtie gets coated in the cheesy cream sauce.
Step 7: Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of mozzarella over the top. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes, until the cheese melts into gooey pockets.
Step 8: Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted. This final step gives the sauce a silky finish. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 650
- Sodium: 640
- Fat: 32
- Carbohydrates: 52
- Protein: 38