Save Tender chicken and bowtie pasta tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, topped with melted mozzarella for a comforting and flavorful dish.
My family fell in love with this recipe the first time I served it for a casual Thursday dinner. The melty mozzarella over warm pasta instantly became a new favorite at our dinner table.
Ingredients
- Bowtie (farfalle) pasta: 12 oz (340 g)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast: 1 lb (450 g), cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, or mixed): 1/2 tsp
- Unsalted butter: 4 tbsp (60 g)
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Low-sodium chicken broth: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Heavy cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup (50 g)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1 cup (100 g)
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp chopped (plus more for garnish)
- Freshly ground black pepper: To taste, for serving
- 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.
- Brown 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.
- Start Garlic Butter 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.
- Simmer Broth:
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
- Add Cream & Cheese:
- Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan, mixing until smooth.
- Combine Pasta & Protein:
- 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.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and black pepper.
Save Dinnertimes when we share this dish always turn into something special thanks to the cozy aroma and the joy of everyone reaching for seconds.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta with a crisp green salad and some crusty bread to soak up the extra garlic butter sauce. For beverages, a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully.
How To Make Ahead
You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta just before serving. Add the mozzarella and let it melt right before serving for the best texture.
Nutrition Information
Per serving: 620 calories, 27 g total fat, 54 g carbohydrates, 41 g protein.
Save This cheesy chicken bowtie pasta is so simple yet feels extra cozy and delicious. Make it your own with optional add-ins for a new twist every time.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of pasta is used?
Bowtie (farfalle) pasta is used for its shape, which holds the creamy garlic butter sauce well.
- → How is the chicken seasoned?
The chicken is seasoned with salt, black pepper, and dried Italian herbs like oregano and basil for authentic flavor.
- → Can I substitute heavy cream?
Yes, half-and-half can be used as a lighter alternative without losing creaminess.
- → How do I melt the mozzarella evenly?
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the combined pasta and chicken, then cover the skillet and let it sit for 2–3 minutes off heat to allow gentle melting.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
A crisp green salad and a light white wine like Pinot Grigio complement the rich garlic butter flavors perfectly.
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.