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Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken

A creamy, comforting pasta dinner featuring tender seared chicken in a rich, garlicky cream sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain thoroughly and reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.
  2. Season the chicken. In a bowl, season the bite-sized chicken pieces with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Toss to coat all sides evenly.
  3. Sear the chicken. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer and cook for 6 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
  4. Start the sauce. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt 3 tablespoons unsalted butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Build the cream sauce. Stir in 1 cup heavy cream and 1/2 cup chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to combine the butter and liquids.
  6. Melt the cheeses. Stir in 1 cup shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes.
  7. Combine and finish. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, add the drained pasta, and toss to coat everything evenly in the sauce. Garnish with 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

For extra cheesy goodness, stir in an extra 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken, pasta, creamy sauce, garlic, mozzarella, dinner