Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken

Warm, cheesy, and utterly comforting, Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken pairs tender pieces of chicken with a lush, creamy sauce and hearty bowtie pasta. Each bite delivers garlicky aroma, silky creaminess from the heavy cream and butter, and a satisfying pull from melted mozzarella. The Parmesan adds a nutty, savory depth while a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes wakes up the flavor if you like a little heat. This dish is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something family friendly and filling, yet elegant enough for a casual dinner with friends. If you enjoy similar creamy pasta dinners, you might also like this variation on garlic butter chicken and pasta found at a related recipe.

Ingredients

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces — provides lean protein and the main texture contrast with the creamy sauce.
1/2 teaspoon salt — seasons the chicken and pasta; adjust to taste.
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper — adds a warm, mild spice.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning — a dried herb blend that brings oregano, basil, and thyme notes.
1 tablespoon olive oil — for searing the chicken to a golden exterior.
12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta — holds the sauce well thanks to its shape and creates a hearty base.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter — contributes richness and helps create the silky sauce.
4 cloves garlic, minced — gives fragrant, savory flavor; use more if you love garlic.
1 cup heavy cream — the creamy backbone of the sauce for smooth mouthfeel.
1/2 cup chicken broth — thins and flavors the sauce while adding savory depth.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese — melts into stretchy, mild creaminess.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese — adds salty, nutty complexity and helps thicken the sauce.
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) — for gentle heat, add to taste.
Salt and pepper, to taste — final seasoning adjustments after the sauce comes together.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish) — brightens the dish with fresh color and a hint of herbaceousness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the 12 oz bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Tip: Reserve the pasta water before you drain so you can loosen the sauce later if needed.
Season the chicken: While the pasta cooks, toss the bite-sized chicken pieces with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning to evenly coat.
Sear the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Start the sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons unsalted butter. When the butter melts, add 4 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to brown the garlic.
Add liquids: Pour in 1/2 cup chicken broth and 1 cup heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to marry the flavors.
Melt the cheeses: Stir in 1 cup shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, mixing continuously until the sauce is smooth and thickened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes if using. Tip: If the sauce becomes too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to reach the desired consistency.
Combine chicken and pasta: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together over low heat so the pasta is coated and the chicken warms through.
Finish and serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Conclusion

I hope Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken becomes a weeknight favorite in your kitchen, offering rich, comforting flavors and simple prep. For a baked twist that keeps the mozzarella front and center, try Baked Garlic Butter Chicken with Mozzarella for inspiration. If you want a bright, skillet-style take with tomatoes, see this one-pan option at One Pan Balsamic Garlic Mozzarella Chicken and Tomatoes. Please try the recipe, and if you make it, share your photos and tweaks so others can enjoy your version too. Cozy cooking and happy eating.