Cowboy Butter Chicken Bowtie in Creamy Mozzarella Parmesan Sauce

Cowboy Butter Chicken Bowtie in Creamy Mozzarella Parmesan Sauce is a delightful dish that brings comfort food to a whole new level. Picture a cozy evening where you gather your loved ones around the dinner table, the enticing aroma of garlic and melting cheese wafting through the air. This dish is perfect for a family gathering or a weeknight dinner when you want something hearty yet easy to prepare.

What Makes This Special

This Cowboy Butter Chicken Bowtie in Creamy Mozzarella Parmesan Sauce is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Here’s why it stands out:

• Creamy, cheesy goodness that coats every bowtie pasta.
• Juicy chicken strips seasoned to perfection.
• Quick and easy to prepare, great for busy weeknights.
• A heartwarming dish that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

Your family will keep asking for seconds!

Ingredients and Key Notes

Gathering fresh ingredients is the key to an unforgettable meal. Here’s what you will need for this delectable dish:

• 16 oz bowtie pasta
• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 1/2 lbs chicken breast, cut into thick bite-size strips
• 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 3/4 teaspoon chili flakes
• 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Make sure to have everything prepped before you dive in!

Step by Step

Cooking this delicious Cowboy Butter Chicken Bowtie is a fun and straightforward process. Follow these steps to bring this dish to life:

1. Begin by cooking the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain it and set aside for later.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil and add the butter. Allow the butter to melt, creating a rich base for the chicken.
3. Add the chicken strips to the skillet and season them with smoked paprika, chili flakes, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook the chicken until it is golden brown and cooked through, which will take about 7-8 minutes.
4. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, letting the fragrant aroma fill your kitchen.
5. Reduce the heat and add the cooked pasta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Stir until the cheeses melt and everything is beautifully combined.
6. Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving!

Prep ~15 minutes, Cook ~20 minutes, Total ~35 minutes, Servings ~4, Kcal ~600 (estimate).

Prepare in Advance

If you want to make your cooking process smoother, consider prepping some components ahead of time. You can cook the pasta earlier in the day and store it in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can season the chicken and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. When you’re prepared to dine, simply heat the skillet and combine the ingredients as instructed.

How to Store Leftovers

Storing and reheating your Cowboy Butter Chicken Bowtie is quite easy. Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it; it can last up to a month in the freezer. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or milk to revive the creaminess.

Perfect Pairings

To elevate your dining experience, consider serving this dish with:

• A side salad with a light vinaigrette
• Garlic bread for that satisfying crunch
• Fresh steamed vegetables to add color and texture
• A light, chilled white wine, or sparkling water for a refreshing drink

These pairings complement the creamy richness of the pasta beautifully.

Variations and Swaps

Make this Cowboy Butter Chicken Bowtie your own with these fun twists:

• Swap the bowtie pasta for penne or fettuccine for a different shape.
• Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to boost the nutrition.
• Spice it up by incorporating jalapeños or hot sauce for those who like extra heat.
• Try using different cheeses, like gouda or even a touch of blue cheese for a bolder flavor profile.
• For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with chickpeas and make your own veggie sauce.

With these ideas, you can create variations that will keep the recipe exciting every time!

Cook’s Notes and Secrets

To achieve the best results with your Cowboy Butter Chicken Bowtie, keep these tips in mind:

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for perfect doneness.
• Allow the cheese to fully melt by keeping the heat low during the mixing stage to avoid burning the bottom.
• Remember to season every layer of your dish, from the chicken to the pasta, to enhance the overall flavor.
• Make sure to chop your fresh herbs just before serving to capture their vibrant flavor.

Your Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions about Cowboy Butter Chicken Bowtie:

• Can I use a different type of cheese?
  Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like gouda, cheddar, or even a touch of blue cheese for a different flavor.

• What can I use instead of bowtie pasta?
  You can easily swap bowtie pasta for shapes like penne, farfalle, or even whole grain pasta if preferred.

• How spicy is this dish?
  The heat primarily comes from the chili flakes. You can adjust the spiciness level to your liking by reducing or omitting the chili flakes.

• Can I make it vegetarian?
  Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with a can of drained chickpeas and perhaps add in some fresh vegetables for a veggie-packed dish.

• How do I make this dish gluten-free?
  Simply use gluten-free pasta to ensure a delicious gluten-free meal.

This comforting Cowboy Butter Chicken Bowtie in Creamy Mozzarella Parmesan Sauce is a delightful dish that’s sure to please. Whether you’re enjoying it during a cozy night in or serving it at a gathering, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a favorite. Don’t hesitate to give it a try and savor every flavorful bite! If you’re interested in another creamy pasta option, check out this Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rotini.

Cowboy Butter Chicken Bowtie in Creamy Mozzarella Parmesan Sauce

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• Author: stessy-rose
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A delightful dish that combines creamy, cheesy pasta with juicy chicken strips, perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 16 oz bowtie pasta
• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 1/2 lbs chicken breast, cut into thick bite-size strips
• 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 3/4 teaspoon chili flakes
• 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Begin by cooking the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain it and set aside for later.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil and add the butter. Allow the butter to melt, creating a rich base for the chicken.
3. Add the chicken strips to the skillet and season them with smoked paprika, chili flakes, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook the chicken until it is golden brown and cooked through, which will take about 7-8 minutes.
4. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, letting the fragrant aroma fill your kitchen.
5. Reduce the heat and add the cooked pasta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Stir until the cheeses melt and everything is beautifully combined.
6. Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving!

Notes

Consider prepping some components ahead of time for a smoother cooking process. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator or freeze for up to a month.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Skillet Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 600
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Cowboy Butter, Chicken, Bowtie Pasta, Creamy Sauce, Family Dinner