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Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

A comforting, crowd-pleasing dish with tender chicken, al dente bowtie pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce featuring garlic and smoked paprika.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 lb bowtie pasta
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry and season. Rub with olive oil, then sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Let sit.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden brown, about 6 to 8 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate to rest.
  3. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
  4. Melt butter in the same skillet, add garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
  5. Whisk together flour and milk in a bowl to make a slurry.
  6. Add the slurry to the skillet and let thicken for 1 to 2 minutes.
  7. Gradually stir in chicken broth and cream, add cream cheese and mozzarella until melted.
  8. Slice the chicken and mix it with the pasta in the sauce until combined.
  9. Transfer to a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and broil until bubbly and golden.
  10. Serve hot, garnished with red pepper flakes if desired.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F. Leftovers can be refrigerated for 3 to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken, pasta, creamy, cheesy, one-pan meal, comfort food