Print

Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Warm, cheesy, and utterly comforting, Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken pairs tender chicken with a creamy sauce and hearty pasta, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

  • Author: daniel-kim
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: None

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
  2. Season the chicken: Toss the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to evenly coat.
  3. Sear the chicken: Heat 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.
  4. Start the sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add unsalted butter. When melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Add liquids: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Melt the cheeses: Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan, mixing continuously until the sauce is smooth and thickened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
  7. Combine chicken and pasta: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Toss together over low heat until the pasta is coated and the chicken warms through.
  8. Finish and serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Notes

For a lighter sauce, increase chicken broth and decrease heavy cream. Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.

Nutrition