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Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

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A cozy, comforting pasta dinner featuring tender chicken in a rich, creamy sauce with garlic and mozzarella, perfect for weeknight dinners.

  • Author: daniel-kim
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 1 lb bowtie pasta
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • 4 tbsp butter, divided
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt.
  2. Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown, about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  3. Cook the pasta: In a pot, bring water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  4. Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  5. Make the roux slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together flour and milk until smooth. Add to the skillet while stirring to thicken.
  6. Add liquids and simmer: Gradually stir in chicken broth and heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer.
  7. Melt the cheeses: Mix in cream cheese and mozzarella until melted, then add Parmesan cheese.
  8. Combine pasta and chicken: Add cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, tossing until coated.
  9. Finish and broil: Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top. Broil until bubbly and lightly browned. Serve hot.

Notes

Use a large skillet to mix everything without spilling. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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