Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

This Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream is a cozy, weeknight crowd pleaser that balances silky, cheesy sauce with tender, seasoned chicken and al dente bowtie pasta. The sauce is rich and velvety from heavy cream and cream cheese, with garlic perfume that fills the kitchen as it simmers. Each forkful delivers creamy mouthfeel, a mild tang from Parmesan, and gooey mozzarella that browns beautifully under the broiler. The chicken has a golden crust and a hint of smoky paprika and Cajun warmth to lift the dish. This recipe is ideal for family dinners, casual dinner parties, or meal prepping a satisfying lunch to reheat. If you enjoy creamy, garlicky pasta meals, you might also like this bright, tangy version of lemon garlic butter chicken creamy parmesan pasta for a different flavor profile lemon garlic butter chicken creamy parmesan pasta.

Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts — trimmed and pounded slightly if needed for even cooking.
1 lb bowtie pasta — dry; cooks to tender, bite-sized pieces that hold sauce well.
4 cups chicken broth — adds savory depth and becomes the base of the sauce.
1 cup heavy cream — provides richness and a smooth, creamy texture.
4 oz cream cheese — adds body and tang to help thicken the sauce.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese — melts into a gooey, stretchy topping and sauce component.
2 tbsp olive oil — for searing the chicken to a golden crust.
4 cloves garlic, minced — gives bright, aromatic garlic flavor throughout the sauce.
1 tsp Cajun seasoning — brings a mild, savory heat and complexity to the chicken.
1/2 tsp smoked paprika — adds subtle smokiness and color.
1/4 tsp black pepper — freshly ground if possible for best flavor.
Salt to taste — to balance and enhance all flavors.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese — sharp, salty finish to deepen the cheese flavor.
2 tbsp all-purpose flour — used with milk to make a quick roux-like slurry for thickening.
1/4 cup milk — whisked with flour to form a smooth thickening mixture.
Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes — for an extra touch of heat if desired.

For another cheesy chicken twist, see this easy handheld option for inspiration with similar flavors cheesy chicken garlic wraps.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp Cajun seasoning, salt to taste, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Rub the seasonings in so they adhere.
Tip: Even seasoning ensures every bite has flavor.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes total depending on thickness. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside to rest.
Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan. If needed, cook in two batches for better browning.
Meanwhile, cook the 1 lb bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside. Do not rinse, so the sauce clings to the noodles.
Return the same skillet to medium heat and melt 2 tbsp butter in the pan. Add the 4 cloves minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp all-purpose flour and 1/4 cup milk until smooth to create a slurry.
Add the flour and milk mixture to the skillet with the garlic and stir until it begins to thicken, about 2 minutes.
Gradually stir in the 4 cups chicken broth and 1 cup heavy cream, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer so it begins to thicken into a sauce.
Stir in the 4 oz cream cheese and 1 cup shredded mozzarella until fully melted and smooth. Add 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and whisk to combine. Season the sauce with salt to taste and an optional pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
Slice or chop the cooked chicken and add it back to the skillet. Add the cooked bowtie pasta and toss everything gently so the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the cheesy cream.
Preheat your oven broiler. Transfer the skillet or a baking dish to the oven, sprinkle any remaining mozzarella on top, and broil until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned, watching closely to avoid burning, about 2 to 4 minutes.
Remove from the oven and let rest a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy hot.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6 generous servings
Calories: Approximately 730 calories per serving

For a variation that keeps the same creamy approach but swaps proteins, check this related cracked garlic steak and tortellini recipe cracked garlic steak tortellini creamhouse sauce.

Tips, Storage & Variations

Tips: Use room temperature cream cheese so it melts into the sauce more smoothly. Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy. If your sauce looks too thin, simmer a little longer to reduce and thicken.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
Freezing: You can freeze portions without the broiled mozzarella for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. After reheating, add fresh mozzarella and broil briefly for the bubbly top.
Flavor variations using only the listed ingredients:
- Add a pinch more Cajun seasoning to the sauce for a spicier kick.
- Stir extra grated Parmesan into the sauce for a sharper flavor.
- Sprinkle the optional red pepper flakes on individual plates for controlled heat.

For a simple handheld adaptation that uses the same creamy filling idea, see another cheesy wrap option for inspiration cheesy garlic chicken wraps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different pasta shape?
A: Yes, any short pasta will work, but cooking times may vary. Bowties are ideal for catching sauce.

Conclusion

This Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream makes a comforting, flavorful meal that comes together quickly and feels special. The creamy sauce, garlicky aroma, and golden broiled mozzarella create a cozy plate your family will return to again and again. If you want a recipe with a similar garlic and mozzarella vibe, try this baked garlic butter chicken with mozzarella for another take on cheesy chicken Baked Garlic Butter Chicken with Mozzarella – Little Spice Jar. For the original inspiration and full visual guide, you can also view the source recipe here Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream. Give this recipe a try, share how it turned out, and enjoy a warm, cheesy meal together.