Rich, creamy, and full of flavor, Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream is the kind of weeknight dinner that brings everyone to the table. Imagine tender grilled chicken with golden edges nestled in buttery garlic cream sauce, clinging to every fold of al dente bowtie pasta. The sauce is silky and cheesy, speckled with fresh herbs and crushed red pepper for just a touch of heat.

This dish hits all the comfort notes while keeping things elevated with simple ingredients and a no-fuss method. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, it brings warmth and a restaurant-style feel to your home kitchen with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

This meal is a dream come true for pasta lovers who crave creamy sauces without heavy prep. It’s:

Incredibly satisfying and cozy
Ready in about 30 minutes
Packed with protein and flavor
Easy to customize with veggies or spice
Great for leftovers

Plus, the balance of creamy mozzarella and garlic butter creates an irresistible base that makes every bite feel indulgent.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

While this recipe uses bowtie pasta (also known as farfalle), you can absolutely switch it up based on your pantry. Penne or rotini also work great, but bowties catch the sauce beautifully with their ridges and folds. Just be sure to cook it al dente so it holds up to the richness of the sauce.

Ingredients for the Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

This flavorful dish uses familiar ingredients, but each one plays an important role in achieving creamy, cheesy perfection.

Chicken Breast: Provides juicy, golden-browned protein that soaks up the garlic butter.
Bowtie Pasta: The fun shape holds onto the creamy sauce and gives texture.
Mozzarella Cheese: Melts smoothly for that stringy, cheesy goodness in every bite.
Heavy Cream: Forms the base of the sauce and adds velvety richness.
Butter: Infused with garlic to start the sauce with deep, comforting flavor.
Garlic: Minced fresh garlic makes the butter aromatic and savory.
Parsley (Fresh or Dried): Brightens the richness and adds herby contrast.
Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a gentle kick that balances the creaminess.
Salt & Black Pepper: Brings out the flavor in every element.
Olive Oil: Used to sear the chicken and help it caramelize.

How To Make the Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

This is a simple, skillet-to-table kind of dish. Here’s how it all comes together:

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season diced chicken breast with salt, pepper, and a touch of olive oil. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the bowtie pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Let it simmer for a minute until fragrant, stirring constantly.

Step 4: Build the Cheesy Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add mozzarella cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Add red pepper flakes and parsley.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the chicken to the skillet, then fold in the cooked pasta. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Stir to coat everything evenly and serve hot.

How to Serve and Store Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream

This creamy chicken pasta serves 4 to 6 people generously, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prepping.

To serve, spoon it into warm bowls and top with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra shredded mozzarella. If you like a little extra heat, another pinch of red pepper flakes works wonders.

For storing, let the dish cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.