Save Tender chicken and bowtie pasta tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, topped with melted mozzarella for a comforting and flavorful dish.
I first made this recipe when looking for a way to use up leftover chicken. The creamy sauce and melted mozzarella quickly became a family favorite, perfect for casual gatherings or cozy dinners at home.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- Chicken: 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Dried Italian herbs: 1/2 tsp (oregano, basil, or mixed)
- Unsalted butter: 4 tbsp (60 g)
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Low-sodium chicken broth: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Heavy cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup (50 g)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1 cup (100 g)
- Chopped fresh parsley: 2 tbsp (plus more for garnish)
- Freshly ground black pepper: to taste
- Extra Parmesan cheese: for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta:
- Cook the bowtie pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup (60 ml) of pasta water.
- Season chicken:
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs.
- Cook chicken:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tbsp of butter. Add the chicken and cook for 5 & 7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Make garlic butter base:
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 3 tbsp butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Simmer sauce:
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
- Finish sauce:
- Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan, mixing until smooth.
- Combine:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
- Add mozzarella:
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the pasta and cover the skillet. Let it sit for 2 & 3 minutes, or until the cheese melts.
- Final garnish:
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and black pepper.
Save This dish always brings everyone together at the table, and my kids love to help sprinkle on the extra mozzarella before serving.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet with lid, strainer, wooden spoon or spatula, chefs knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains: Milk (butter, cream, Parmesan, mozzarella), Wheat (pasta). May contain: Egg (if using egg pasta).
Nutritional Information
Calories: 620, Total Fat: 27 g, Carbohydrates: 54 g, Protein: 41 g (per serving)
Save Enjoy this comforting meal fresh from the skillet, and garnish with extra herbs for a pop of color and taste.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I keep the mozzarella melty and smooth?
Cover the skillet after sprinkling mozzarella to trap steam and melt the cheese gently for a gooey topping.
- → Can I use other pasta shapes?
Yes, penne, rotini, or fusilli work well with the creamy sauce and chicken pieces.
- → What vegetables pair nicely?
Sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes add color and flavor, blending perfectly into the dish.
- → How do I make it lighter?
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half, and use low-fat mozzarella for reduced calories and fat.
- → Is it gluten-free or dairy-free?
Standard fare contains wheat and dairy. Use gluten-free pasta and dairy alternatives for modifications.