Jonathan Rice June 30, 2026

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Garlic Herb Chicken Bowties in Parmesan Mozzarella Cream Sauce

Name: Garlic Herb Chicken Bowties in Parmesan Mozzarella Cream Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb bowtie pasta; 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into bite-size strips; 6 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tbsp Italian seasoning; 2 1/2 cups heavy cream; 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed; 2 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

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Garlic Herb Chicken Bowties in Parmesan Mozzarella Cream Sauce is a dish that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or a delightful gathering with friends. The combination of tender chicken, bowtie pasta, and a luscious creamy sauce enveloped with savory garlic and herbs makes each bite unforgettable. The aroma wafting through your kitchen while it cooks is truly inviting, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Reasons to Love Garlic Herb Chicken Bowties in Parmesan Mozzarella Cream Sauce

This dish is a culinary delight for various reasons. It offers a comforting and hearty meal with a rich, creamy texture that simply warms the soul.

Quick and easy to make in under 30 minutes
Perfect for any night, from weeknights to special occasions
Customizable with your favorite vegetables or proteins
Bursting with flavor from garlic, herbs, and cheese

Ingredients and Key Notes for Garlic Herb Chicken Bowties in Parmesan Mozzarella Cream Sauce

To create this delightful meal, you will need to gather the following ingredients, which work together to create that irresistible creamy sauce:

1 lb bowtie pasta
2 large chicken breasts, sliced into bite-size strips
6 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
2 1/2 cups heavy cream
4 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
2 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

The combination of the seasonings and creamy cheeses makes this dish truly stand out.

How to Cook Garlic Herb Chicken Bowties in Parmesan Mozzarella Cream Sauce

Creating this delicious meal is simple and involves just a few key steps:

Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions; drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat some oil and cook the chicken strips over medium heat until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Reduce the heat and add the heavy cream and cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until the cream cheese melts and the mixture is well combined.
Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, cooking until both cheeses are melted, and the sauce becomes creamy.
Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring each piece is well coated.
Before serving, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for garnish.

Prep ~ 10 minutes, Cook ~ 20 minutes, Total ~ 30 minutes, Servings ~ 4, Kcal ~ 750.

Make-Ahead and Prep Tips

This dish can be prepped ahead of time for convenience. You can cook the bowtie pasta and slice the chicken in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator. For best flavor, try to prepare the creamy sauce shortly before serving. This ensures a fresh, rich taste.

Storing and Reheating

To keep your leftovers fresh, store any excess Garlic Herb Chicken Bowties in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay good for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. When reheating, use low heat on the stove or the microwave with an added splash of cream to maintain creaminess without drying out.

Perfect Pairings

Serving ideas that complement Garlic Herb Chicken Bowties in Parmesan Mozzarella Cream Sauce include:

A crisp side salad with lemon vinaigrette
Garlic bread for dipping into the creamy sauce
Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans
A light, zesty coleslaw

Variations and Swaps

This recipe provides ample opportunity to make it your own. Here are a few variations to consider:

Add sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra veggie boost.
Substitute chicken with grilled shrimp or turkey sausage for a protein twist.
For a little kick, mix in some red pepper flakes or a splash of lemon juice.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free bowtie pasta for a healthier option.
Swap in different cheeses such as gouda or cheddar for a unique flavor profile.

Pro Tips for Best Results

Ensure the chicken is cut into even strips for consistent cooking.
Keep the heat low when adding cheese to prevent clumping and ensure a smooth sauce.
For a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer a bit longer after adding the cheese.
Use fresh herbs whenever possible to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

Your Questions Answered

Can I use other types of pasta? Yes, you can substitute bowtie pasta with penne, fusilli, or any pasta of preference.
How can I make the dish lighter? You might opt for reduced-fat cheese and light cream instead of heavy cream.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning? A mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme can be a great substitute.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian? Absolutely! Replace chicken with a variety of vegetables, like bell peppers and mushrooms.
How do I make the sauce spicier? Add diced jalapeños or incorporate a few dashes of hot sauce.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Herb Chicken Bowties in Parmesan Mozzarella Cream Sauce is not only a dish that’s easy to prepare, but it also brings an enjoyable twist to your dinner table. The creaminess, combined with the vibrant flavors of garlic and herbs, makes it a compelling choice for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to make this dish soon—it’s sure to become a family favorite. For an alternative meal option, consider trying the creamy flavors found in Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rotini. Happy cooking!