Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package directions until it’s al dente—firm but with a slight bite. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
- Cook the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken cubes with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the hot skillet and sauté until it’s golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- Start the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for about 30-60 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
- Build the Cream Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble for 3-4 minutes to allow it to thicken slightly.
- Add the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and velvety. This is the base of your delicious Cheesy Cream sauce.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained bowtie pasta and toss everything together until the chicken and pasta are thoroughly coated in the sauce.
- Melt the Mozzarella: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for 2-3 minutes, or until the mozzarella is completely melted and gooey.
- Garnish and Serve: Turn off the heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately. Enjoy your homemade Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken!
Notes
For the best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese to avoid a grainy sauce. Be careful not to overcook the chicken or the pasta; cook pasta until al dente. You can reserve some pasta water to thin the sauce if it becomes too thick.
