Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, rich cheeses, and flavorful spices. This creamy pasta meal is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even a cozy night in. Its unique blend of ingredients ensures a delicious experience that will impress your guests while being easy enough for weeknight cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare – Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings.
• Rich Flavor – The combination of garlic butter and creamy cheeses creates an irresistible sauce.
• Versatile Dish – Great for any occasion, from weekday meals to special gatherings.
• Kid-Friendly – The cheesy goodness makes it a hit among both kids and adults alike.
• Customizable – Feel free to add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the necessary tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for browning chicken and creating the creamy sauce without needing to switch pans.
• Whisk: Ensures the flour mixture blends smoothly with the broth and cream, preventing lumps in your sauce.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

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

For the Pasta

• 1 lb bowtie pasta

For the Cheesy Cream Sauce

• 4 tbsp butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 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

In a large bowl, toss the chicken cubes with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
1. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet.
2. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
3. 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 the pasta and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheesy Cream Sauce

In the same skillet used for chicken:
1. Melt remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together flour and milk until smooth.
4. Pour this mixture into the skillet with garlic butter; whisk constantly until slightly thickened (about 1-2 minutes).
5. Gradually pour in chicken broth and heavy cream while whisking to avoid lumps.
6. Bring 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 and optional red pepper flakes.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Chicken

Add the cooked bowtie pasta into the cheese sauce:
1. Toss until evenly coated.
2. Gently fold in cooked chicken.

Step 5: Final Touches

Transfer everything to a large serving dish or individual bowls:
1. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
2. Broil on low heat for 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream!

How to Serve Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

Serving your Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream can elevate the dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this dish and enhance its flavors.

Family Style

• Serve in a large bowl or platter for everyone to share, allowing guests to help themselves and encouraging a warm, communal atmosphere.

Individual Bowls

• Dish out portions into individual bowls for a more personalized touch, making it easier for guests to enjoy their meal without sharing.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top before serving. This not only adds color but also enhances the flavor profile of the dish.

With Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, offer additional shredded mozzarella on the side for guests to add more creaminess and richness to their servings.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of crusty bread or garlic bread on the side. This is perfect for soaking up the delicious cheesy sauce.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Present alongside a light green salad with vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the creamy pasta.

How to Perfect Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

Perfecting your Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream takes just a few extra steps. Consider these helpful tips for an even better dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried alternatives.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook bowtie pasta until al dente. It will absorb some sauce while baking, ensuring it doesn’t become mushy.
• Customize Spice Levels: Adjust Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes according to your taste preference for heat.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach, peas, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color. Sauté them briefly before adding to the sauce.
• Monitor Cheese Melting: To achieve that perfect gooey texture, ensure you melt cheese over low heat and stir constantly.
• Let It Rest: Allow the final dish to sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps flavors meld together beautifully.

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

Complementing your Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream with side dishes can round out your meal perfectly. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread

2. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce.

3. Caesar Salad

4. A classic Caesar salad offers crunch from romaine lettuce and creaminess from dressing that pairs well with rich pasta dishes.

5. Steamed Broccoli

6. Lightly steamed broccoli adds a vibrant green touch and balances the richness of the cheesy pasta.

7. Roasted Asparagus

8. Tossed with olive oil and roasted until tender, asparagus provides an elegant side that complements creamy dishes nicely.

9. Caprese Salad

10. Made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, this salad adds freshness and acidity that brightens up your meal.

11. Zucchini Noodles

12. For a lighter option, consider zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil or garlic; they add texture without overwhelming flavors.

13. Corn on the Cob

14. Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is sweet and crunchy, providing a delightful contrast to creamy pasta.

15. Fruit Salad

16. A refreshing fruit salad offers sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory dishes—perfect for cleansing the palate!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks encounter pitfalls when making Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream. Here are some common mistakes and tips to avoid them.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Ensure that you cook the chicken just until golden brown and cooked through. Overcooking can lead to dry, tough chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F.

• Ignoring Pasta Cooking Instructions: Always follow the package instructions for cooking bowtie pasta. Cooking it too long can result in mushy pasta that won’t hold up in the sauce. Aim for al dente for best results.

• Skipping the Cheese Melting Steps: When adding cream cheese and shredded mozzarella, make sure to stir continuously until melted. Skipping this step can lead to clumps of cheese rather than a smooth, creamy sauce.

• Not Adjusting Seasonings: Tasting your dish before serving is crucial. Don’t forget to adjust salt and spices as needed, especially if using low-sodium broth or cheese.

• Using Cold Dairy Products: Let your cream cheese come to room temperature before mixing it into the sauce. Cold dairy can cause the sauce to seize up instead of becoming creamy.

• Neglecting the Broiling Step: Broiling adds a deliciously bubbly top layer of cheese. Don’t skip this step; just keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The dish will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

• Place cooled portions into freezer-safe containers.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and bake covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe dish for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to restore creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute bowtie pasta with penne or fusilli if preferred. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make this recipe lighter?

To lighten it up, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or reducing the amount of cheese used while increasing vegetables like spinach or broccoli.

Can I substitute chicken with turkey?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or cubed turkey breast works well as a substitute for chicken in this recipe.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze them for up to two months.

How spicy is the Cajun seasoning?

The spiciness varies by brand; taste your seasoning before adding it to gauge how much you’d like based on your preference.

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely! Vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms would enhance flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the garlic before adding other ingredients.

Final Thoughts

Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream is not only rich and comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by altering ingredients and adjusting spices according to your taste. It’s a perfect dish for family dinners or gatherings—give it a try!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream, a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken and creamy cheeses for an unforgettable meal. With a rich garlic butter sauce enveloping perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, this recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. The cheesy goodness pleases both kids and adults alike, making it a family favorite. Customize it by adding your choice of vegetables for extra nutrition and color. This dish is sure to impress with its blend of flavors and satisfying texture!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 lb bowtie pasta
• 4 tbsp butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 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

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, coat chicken cubes with olive oil and seasonings. Cook in a skillet until golden brown (6-8 minutes), then set aside.
2. Boil bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
3. In the same skillet, prepare the sauce by melting butter, sautéing garlic, and whisking in flour with milk. Gradually add broth and cream while stirring until thickened.
4. Stir in cheeses until melted and smooth; season to taste. Combine with pasta and chicken in the skillet.
5. Transfer to a serving dish, top with remaining cheese, and broil briefly until bubbly.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 350g)
• Calories: 590
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 150mg