Today, I’m bursting with excitement to share with you a recipe that is basically a warm hug on a plate: Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream! If you’re a fan of creamy, cheesy goodness served up in a cozy, delicious bowl, then you’re in for a real treat! Just imagine tender chicken tossed with bowtie pasta, enveloped in a dreamy garlic butter sauce that’s just oozing with cheesy charm. Are you ready to whip this up? Let’s dive right in!
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Why You’ll Love This Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream Recipe
Oh, where do I even start? This dish is like a party in your mouth! Here are a few reasons why it’s an absolute must-make:
- Creamy Delight: The rich and luscious cream sauce is mouthwateringly divine. Seriously, you’ll be wishing you’d made a double batch!
- Quick and Easy: It comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a fancy weekend dinner.
- Melted Cheese Heaven: Between the gooey mozzarella and the nutty Parmesan, this is a cheese lover’s dream!
- Comfort Food Extraordinaire: It’s warm, filling, and just plain delicious, which means it’s perfect for cozy nights in or even impressing guests!
How to make Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream
Let’s get those aprons on and put on our chef hats, shall we? This recipe is so easy to follow, so let’s take it step by step!
Ingredients for Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 lb bowtie pasta
- 4 cups heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus more for topping
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
- Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes for extra spice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken to the skillet and season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add the softened cream cheese and whisk until smooth and melted.
Stir in the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and cheesy. Season with salt to taste. Add crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet with the cheesy cream sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with additional shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let it cool slightly before serving. Yummy!
What to Serve With Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream
This dish is glorious on its own, but if you’re feeling fancy, pair it with a crisp side salad to cut through the rich flavors, or some warm garlic bread to soak up all that cheesy goodness. Oh, and don’t forget a glass of your favorite white wine for a true dining experience!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips of Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream
Leftovers? Yes, please! You can store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or stovetop with a splash of cream to keep it extra luscious. You can even make the dish ahead of time, store it uncooked in the fridge, then pop it in the oven when you’re ready to indulge!
Expert Tips for the Perfect Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix up the cheeses! Add some cheddar for a sharper flavor or try a sprinkle of goat cheese for a twist!
- Add Veggies: Sneak in some sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a pop of color and flavor.
- Heat Things Up: If you’re a spice lover, double up on those crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
No bowtie pasta? No problem! You can use any pasta shape you have on hand—penne or rigatoni work like a charm. And for a lighter option, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even a dairy-free alternative. The world is your oyster, my friend!
FAQs
1. Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! Just freeze it before baking, and when you’re ready, thaw and bake until bubbly.
2. What if I don’t have heavy cream?
No worries! You can use half-and-half, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.
3. Can I add other proteins?
Totally! Shrimp or sausage would complement this dish beautifully. Feel free to get creative!
I hope you’re as excited about this recipe as I am! Get ready for a delightful culinary adventure, and don’t forget to share your delicious creation with friends (and a little bit of cheese love)! Enjoy, lovely cooks!
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Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: None
Description
A creamy, cheesy delight made with tender chicken and bowtie pasta enveloped in a warm garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 lb bowtie pasta
- 4 cups heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus more for topping
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
- Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes for extra spice
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add the softened cream cheese and whisk until smooth and melted.
- Stir in the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and cheesy. Season with salt to taste. Add crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet with the cheesy cream sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with additional shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Feel free to mix up the cheeses or add veggies like sautéed spinach for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg