Save Tender chicken and bowtie pasta tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, topped with melted mozzarella for a comforting and flavorful dish.
This is one of my go-to weeknight dinners because my kids can never say no to cheesy chicken pasta. The aroma of garlic butter always brings everyone to the kitchen before the meal is even ready.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- Chicken: 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, or mixed)
- Sauce: 4 tbsp (60 g) unsalted butter, 4 cloves garlic, minced, 1/2 cup (120 ml) low-sodium chicken broth, 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream, 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
- For Serving: Freshly ground black pepper, to taste, Extra Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook the bowtie pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup (60 ml) of pasta water.
- Season Chicken:
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs.
- Sauté Chicken:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tbsp of butter. Add the chicken and cook for 5 – 7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Make Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 3 tbsp butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze Pan:
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
- Add Dairy:
- Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan, mixing until smooth.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
- Add Mozzarella:
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the pasta and cover the skillet. Let it sit for 2 – 3 minutes, or until the cheese melts.
- Finish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and black pepper.
Save This dish reminds me of Sunday family dinners when everyone gathered around the big table, passing extra cheese and laughing about their day.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio complements the rich flavor beautifully.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try replacing heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce or mixing in sautéed spinach for more color and nutrition.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if the sauce thickens.
Save Serve right away for maximum creaminess & enjoy every comforting bite!
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I ensure the chicken stays tender?
Cook chicken pieces until golden and just cooked through, avoiding overcooking to maintain tenderness.
- → Can I substitute the bowtie pasta with another type?
Yes, any short pasta like penne or rotini works well to hold the creamy sauce.
- → What is the role of reserved pasta water in the sauce?
Adding reserved pasta water helps loosen the sauce, making it smoother and better coated on the pasta.
- → How do I get the mozzarella to melt nicely over the dish?
Cover the skillet after sprinkling mozzarella and let it sit off heat for a few minutes until melted.
- → Can I add vegetables to enhance the dish?
Absolutely, sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes add flavor and nutrition, complementing the creamy sauce.