Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream is an irresistible dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful garlic butter, and rich mozzarella cheese, all served over delightful bowtie pasta. The creamy sauce ties everything together, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that you will want to make again and again. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions when you want to impress your family and friends.
Why We Love This Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream
This dish quickly becomes a favorite for many reasons. First, the combination of garlic butter and mozzarella creates a rich and savory flavor profile that tantalizes your taste buds. Each bite offers a delightful balance of creaminess and heartiness, making it an enjoyable meal for all ages. The bowtie pasta serves as a perfect vessel for the sauce, allowing you to savor every bit of flavor in each forkful. Additionally, this meal comes together relatively quickly, making it a great choice for busy weeknights. It’s also customizable, allowing you to add vegetables or herbs to suit your personal taste. With its comforting textures and flavors, this dish can transform any meal into a special occasion.
Ingredients for Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Start by cooking the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, adjusting the seasoning to your liking.
- Stir in the cooked chicken and allow it to heat through, about 2–3 minutes.
- Gradually add the mozzarella cheese, stirring continuously until it melts and creates a creamy sauce.
- Toss in the cooked bowtie pasta, mixing until the pasta is well coated with the cheesy sauce.
- Remove from heat, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
How to Serve Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream
When serving Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream, presentation can enhance the meal’s appeal. Place a generous portion of the creamy pasta on each plate, ensuring that there’s a good mix of tender chicken and rich sauce in every serving. Consider adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color. You can also serve this dish alongside a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for added freshness. A side of crusty garlic bread complements the meal perfectly, allowing you to soak up any leftover sauce. This approach not only makes for a colorful table setting but also provides a well-rounded dining experience that will delight your guests.
Expert Tips for Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream
To elevate your Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream, consider a few expert tips. First, using freshly shredded mozzarella cheese will yield a creamier texture compared to pre-packaged cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents. Additionally, for an extra depth of flavor, you can experiment with adding Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Foodies often recommend cooking the chicken in advance and seasoning it well to enhance its flavor. You can also sauté onions or bell peppers with the garlic to add some extra texture and sweetness to the dish. Adjust the consistency of the sauce by controlling the amount of chicken broth you use; for a thicker sauce, reduce the broth slightly. Lastly, don’t hesitate to experiment with spices and herbs — a touch of crushed red pepper flakes can add a delightful hint of heat, making the dish even more enjoyable.
How to Store Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream
Storing leftover Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream is simple. Let the dish cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help retain its freshness while preventing any odors from contaminating the dish. Store the container in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to 3–4 days. If you find yourself with an abundance of leftovers, consider freezing them for longer storage. Spoon the cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Variations of Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream
One of the best aspects of Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream is its versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. Adding more vegetables not only enhances the nutritional value but also contributes to a colorful dish. If you want to incorporate more protein, you could add shrimp or finely diced tofu for variation. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, adding jalapeños or swapping the Italian seasoning for a Cajun seasoning blend can provide a delicious kick. You can also experiment with different types of pasta; while bowties work beautifully, you can use penne, fusilli, or any pasta of your choice. Finally, consider flavoring the sauce with herbs like basil or thyme for a fresh appeal, or add lemon zest for a bright finish.
FAQ about Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream
What type of chicken should I use in Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream?
You can use any cooked chicken, whether it’s rotisserie, grilled, or even leftovers from a previous meal. Shredded or diced chicken works best as it integrates well with the creamy sauce.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before adding the pasta and chicken.
Can I use low-fat dairy products?
You can use low-fat milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version, but keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! You can incorporate a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli to enhance the flavors and add nutritional value.
How can I reheat leftovers?
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to keep the sauce creamy. You can also use a microwave, but be cautious not to overheat it.
Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
Creamy Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded Use freshly shredded for best texture
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Be careful not to burn
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped Optional for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Cooking
- Add heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring to combine, and bring to a simmer.
- Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, adjusting to taste.
- Stir in the cooked chicken and heat through for about 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually add the mozzarella cheese, stirring continuously until melted to create a creamy sauce.
- Toss in the cooked bowtie pasta, mixing until well coated.
Serving
- Remove from heat, garnish with parsley if desired, and serve warm.
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