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Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken

A cozy weeknight meal featuring tender chicken in a creamy garlic sauce with cheesy mozzarella and hearty bowtie pasta.

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. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and prepare the bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly, reserving 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water for sauce adjustment.
  2. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels and season evenly with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6 to 7 minutes.
  4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons unsalted butter. Add 4 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Pour in 1/2 cup chicken broth and 1 cup heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Gradually add 1 cup shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese while stirring constantly. Simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
  7. Return cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together thoroughly.
  8. Remove from heat and garnish with 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Ensure chicken is dry before seasoning for the best crust. Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken, garlic, mozzarella, pasta, comfort food