Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, savory garlic butter, and cheesy goodness all tossed with bowtie pasta. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe showcases the rich flavors of mozzarella and cream, making it a standout choice for any occasion. It’s easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Creamy: The combination of heavy cream, cream cheese, and mozzarella creates a rich sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta.
• Quick Preparation: This dish can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to make it uniquely yours.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its comforting flavors and inviting aroma, this meal is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
• Easy Cleanup: Most of the cooking is done in one skillet, reducing the mess and making cleanup a breeze.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will help you prepare Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream efficiently. Here are some essential tools you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Large pot
• Whisk
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A large skillet is crucial for cooking the chicken evenly while also allowing space for mixing in other ingredients.
• Large pot: This is necessary for boiling the bowtie pasta to perfection without overcrowding.
• Whisk: A whisk helps create a smooth sauce by blending ingredients efficiently and preventing lumps.
• Mixing bowl: Use this for marinating the chicken before cooking to enhance flavor.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Pasta and Sauce

• 1 lb bowtie pasta
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup milk
• Salt to taste
• Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

How to Make Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

First, prepare the chicken. In a large bowl:
1. Toss the chicken cubes with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking:
1. Boil water in a large pot.
2. Add bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente.
3. Drain pasta and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken:
1. Melt remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together flour and milk until smooth.
4. Pour flour mixture into skillet with garlic butter; whisk constantly until slightly thickened (about 1-2 minutes).
5. Slowly pour in chicken broth and heavy cream while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer; reduce heat to low.
7. Stir in softened cream cheese, 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Season with salt to taste and add red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Chicken

Add cooked pasta into cheese sauce:
1. Toss gently until coated evenly.
2. Fold in cooked chicken carefully.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer mixture to serving dishes:
1. Sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese on top.
2. Broil on low heat for 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

Serving Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream is all about enhancing the delicious flavors of the dish. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this comforting meal.

Family Style Presentation

• Serve the dish directly from a large serving bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves. This casual approach encourages sharing and conversation around the table.

Individual Portions

• For a more elegant dining experience, plate the chicken bowties in individual bowls. Top each serving with a sprinkle of extra mozzarella for a nice touch.

Garnished Delight

• Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top of each serving. This not only adds color but also enhances the flavor profile with freshness.

Accompanied by Bread

• Serve with warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette. The bread is perfect for scooping up any extra cheesy sauce left on the plate.

How to Perfect Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

Making your Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream even better can be simple with a few helpful tips. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh garlic and herbs instead of dried ones. Fresh ingredients provide brighter flavors and aromas.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure you cook the bowtie pasta just until al dente. This helps it maintain a slight firmness, preventing it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your cheese sauce before serving and adjust seasoning as needed. A little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference in flavor.

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables such as spinach or roasted red peppers into the dish for added nutrition and color. They complement the creamy sauce beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

Pairing side dishes with your Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice that complements the cheesy flavors perfectly, providing a crispy contrast to the creamy pasta.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese offers a refreshing balance to the richness of the dish.

3. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while providing a healthy crunch alongside the creamy pasta.

4. Roasted Asparagus
   Tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, roasted asparagus brings earthy flavors that pair well with the richness of cheesy chicken bowties.

5. Mixed Green Salad
   A salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed lightly in vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to the meal’s heaviness.

6. Grilled Zucchini
   Sliced zucchini grilled until tender can add smoky notes that enhance your pasta dish’s flavors while keeping it light and healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your cooking experience and ensure your Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream turn out perfectly every time.

• Not seasoning the chicken properly: Failing to season the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to toss the chicken cubes with olive oil and spices thoroughly before cooking.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the bowtie pasta beyond al dente can result in mushy noodles. Follow package directions carefully and taste for doneness a minute or two before draining.
• Skipping the whisking step: Not whisking the flour mixture into the garlic butter can cause lumps in your sauce. Whisk constantly until the mixture is smooth for a creamy consistency.
• Ignoring cheese temperature: Adding cold cream cheese to hot sauce can cause it to clump. Ensure it’s softened at room temperature for seamless incorporation into your sauce.
• Broiling too long: Keeping the dish under the broiler for too long can burn the cheese. Watch closely and broil just until bubbly and golden, usually 2-3 minutes.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it will keep well for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to substitute mozzarella with cheeses like cheddar or gouda for different flavor profiles.

How can I make this dish lighter?

You can use low-fat cream cheese and reduce the amount of heavy cream used without sacrificing too much flavor.

What pasta alternatives can I use?

You may replace bowtie pasta with any shape you prefer, such as fusilli or penne, depending on your preference.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Add spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for extra nutrition and color. Just cook them briefly with the garlic before adding other ingredients.

How do I adjust spice levels?

To make this dish milder, reduce or omit Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes. Adjust according to family preferences for a balanced flavor.

Final Thoughts

Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream is a delightful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Its creamy texture combined with tender chicken creates a comforting meal everyone will love. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spice levels to suit your taste!