Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties

A bowl of Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties is pure comfort food that satisfies on every level. Tender bite-sized chicken pieces are seared in butter until golden, then folded into a lush, silky sauce made from heavy cream and cream cheese. Bowtie pasta holds pockets of sauce and cheese between its pleats, giving each forkful a delightful mix of creamy texture and chewy pasta. The aroma of garlic and melting mozzarella draws you in, and the Parmesan adds a bright, savory finish. This dish is ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner, a casual weekend gathering, or any time you want a rich, satisfying pasta that feels a little indulgent without a lot of fuss. If you enjoy creamy pasta served in fun ways, take a look at this Chicken Alfredo garlic bread bowls recipe for another crowd-pleasing idea.

Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Tender, lean chicken that cooks quickly and soaks up the sauce.
4 tbsp butter, divided
Used to brown the chicken and build a rich, glossy sauce.
1 lb bowtie pasta
Farfalle soaks up sauce well in its folds and gives a pleasing bite.
4 cups heavy cream
The base for an ultra-creamy sauce that clings to pasta and chicken.
4 oz cream cheese, softened
Adds body and silkiness to the sauce and helps it emulsify.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus more for topping
Melts into the sauce for gooey stretch and mild, milky flavor.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Adds salty, nutty depth and helps balance the richness.

If you like creamy chicken pasta combinations, you might also enjoy this Chicken Alfredo garlic bread bowls variation.

Step-by-step Instructions

Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Tip: Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water in case you want to loosen the sauce later.
In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until no longer pink. Remove and set aside.
Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan; cook the chicken in a single layer so it browns evenly.
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tbsp butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
Tip: Watch the garlic closely so it does not burn; 30 seconds releases the aroma without bitterness.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the softened cream cheese until smooth.
Tip: Break the cream cheese into smaller pieces so it melts evenly into the cream.
Add the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, stirring until melted. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat. Serve hot with extra mozzarella on top.
Tip: If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a tablespoon or two of reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.

For a similar creamy pasta option that includes chicken and broccoli, check out this Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta for inspiration.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 1,225 per serving

This estimate accounts for the chicken, pasta, butter, heavy cream, cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan combined, divided across six portions.

Tips, Storage & Variations

Practical tips: Pat the chicken dry before cooking to promote browning. Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting and flavor. If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the heavy cream slightly but do not omit it completely or the texture will change.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but cream-based sauces can separate. If you plan to freeze, cool completely, place in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat slowly, whisking to reincorporate the sauce.
Flavor variations using only the listed ingredients:
- Extra cheesy top: Sprinkle more shredded mozzarella over each serving and allow it to melt under residual heat.
- Parmesan-forward: Stir in an extra tablespoon or two of grated Parmesan for a sharper finish.
- Creamier texture: Add an extra ounce of cream cheese to make the sauce even silkier.
- Butter-enhanced: Melt all 4 tablespoons of butter before adding cream for a richer mouthfeel.

For another creamy comfort pasta, you might like this take on creamy rotisserie chicken and broccoli pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the sauce from splitting?
Stir the cream and cream cheese together over gentle heat and avoid boiling the sauce hard. If it starts to separate, a splash of pasta water can help bring it back together.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, any sturdy pasta like penne or rigatoni will work, but the bowties catch the sauce nicely.
Is this recipe oven-safe for melting extra cheese on top?
Yes, after assembling, you can broil briefly to brown additional mozzarella, watching carefully so it does not burn.
How can I make the dish less rich?
Reduce the heavy cream slightly and add a little reserved pasta water to maintain sauce consistency.
Can I prepare components ahead of time?
Yes, cook the pasta and chicken ahead and finish the sauce just before serving for best texture.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of water or milk, stirring until warmed through.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making and sharing this Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with friends or family. Its comforting texture, garlicky aroma, and gooey cheese make it a weeknight favorite that still feels special. If you want a baked version with similar flavors, check out this Baked Garlic Butter Chicken with Mozzarella. For another skillet pasta idea that pairs garlic, butter, and bowtie pasta with chicken, see this Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta. Give the recipe a try, then come back and tell me how it turned out. Cozy cooking and happy eating.