Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream
A comforting blend of garlic butter, creamy cheese, tender chicken, and pasta, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Pasta and Dairy
- 8 oz bowtie pasta Can substitute with other pasta types.
- 1 cup heavy cream Can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter option.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Feel free to mix different cheeses.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced Ensure even sizes for uniform cooking.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Adjust for more flavor if desired.
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped For garnish and flavor.
- to taste optional red pepper flakes For added heat.
Instructions
Cooking Pasta
- Begin by cooking the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set it aside once it reaches an al dente texture.
Cooking Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season it with salt and pepper.
- Sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned and cooked through, stirring frequently.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Making the Sauce
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually add the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and creates a smooth sauce.
Combining Ingredients
- Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the cheesy cream sauce.
- Remove from heat, and stir in the chopped parsley. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if you like heat.
Notes
To ensure juicy chicken, avoid overcooking. For variations, add vegetables like spinach or broccoli, or use different proteins like shrimp or turkey. Experiment with herbs and spices to customize the dish.