Save to Pinterest Tender chicken and bowtie pasta tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, topped with melted mozzarella for a comforting and flavorful dish.
I first tried this recipe on a chilly weeknight, and it quickly became a family favorite because of how effortlessly it comes together and how much everyone enjoys the savory flavors.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- Chicken: 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Dried Italian herbs: 1/2 tsp (oregano, basil, or mixed)
- Butter: 4 tbsp (60 g) unsalted butter
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Chicken broth: 1/2 cup (120 ml) low-sodium
- Heavy cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup (50 g) grated
- Mozzarella cheese: 1 cup (100 g) shredded
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp chopped (plus more for garnish)
- Black pepper (for serving): freshly ground, to taste
- Extra Parmesan cheese (for garnish): as desired
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil bowtie pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup (60 ml) pasta water.
- Season the Chicken:
- Season chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs.
- Cook the Chicken:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tbsp butter. Add chicken and cook for 5 minutes to 7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the 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.
- Build the Base:
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up browned bits.
- Add Cream and Parmesan:
- Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan. Mix until smooth.
- Combine Everything:
- Return cooked chicken to skillet. Add drained pasta. Toss together and add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen sauce.
- Melt Mozzarella:
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over pasta and cover skillet. Let sit for 2 minutes to 3 minutes until cheese melts.
- Finish:
- Top with chopped parsley. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and black pepper.
Save to Pinterest My kids love helping sprinkle the mozzarella and watching it melt over the silky pasta and chicken. This recipe always brings smiles to our dinner table.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these chicken bowties with a crisp green salad and a light white wine for a complete meal.
Make It Lighter
Try substituting half-and-half for the heavy cream or add sautéed spinach for freshness and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to restore the silky sauce.
Save to Pinterest Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors and creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of pasta works best with this dish?
Bowtie (farfalle) pasta is ideal as it holds the creamy garlic butter sauce well and adds a nice texture.
- → Can I use other cheeses instead of mozzarella?
Yes, grated Parmesan or provolone can be used for a different flavor profile, though mozzarella provides a creamy melt.
- → How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Cook the chicken pieces until just golden and fully cooked, avoid overcooking by monitoring closely during sautéing.
- → Is there a substitute for heavy cream in the sauce?
Half-and-half can be used for a lighter sauce, but it might be less rich and creamy.
- → What herbs complement the garlic butter sauce?
Dried Italian herbs like oregano and basil work well, and fresh parsley adds a vibrant finish.
- → How can I adjust the sauce consistency if it's too thick?
Use reserved pasta water gradually to loosen the sauce to your preferred creaminess without diluting flavor.