Name: Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and black pepper to taste; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz), undrained; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

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If you’re looking for a comforting meal that brings smiles to the table, you’ve landed in the right place! This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Tender pieces of chicken, gooey mozzarella, and a rich tomato-cream sauce cling to perfectly cooked pasta. What more could you ask for? It’s not just delicious; it’s quick enough for busy weeknights yet special enough for family gatherings. You’ll love how this dish transforms simple ingredients into something truly delightful.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a gathering with friends, this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is sure to impress. It’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
Family-friendly: Everyone loves cheesy pasta! This dish appeals to kids and adults alike.
One-pot wonder: Fewer dishes to wash means more time enjoying your meal.
Flavor-packed: The combination of chicken, mozzarella, and a rich sauce creates an irresistible dish.
Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients or spice levels to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful Chicken Mozzarella Pasta! You likely have many of these in your pantry already.

Ingredients:
– 8 oz . pasta (such as penne, fusilli, or your choice)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
– 1 can (14.5 oz.) diced tomatoes, undrained
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

Swap the protein: Feel free to use shrimp or turkey instead of chicken for a different twist.
Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or broccoli for an extra boost of nutrients and color.
Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream if you’re looking to lighten things up without sacrificing flavor.
Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme to change the flavor profile.

How to Make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the pasta according to package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water. This step is crucial because salting the water enhances the pasta’s flavor. Once it’s al dente, drain it and set aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and season your chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook until they are golden brown and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes should do it! Removing the chicken once it’s done ensures it stays juicy.

Step 3: Flavor with Garlic

Using the same skillet helps trap all those tasty bits left from cooking the chicken. Add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant—just about 30 seconds will do. Be cautious not to burn it; burnt garlic can turn bitter!

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Add Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Stir everything together before adding diced tomatoes (with their juice), chicken broth, and heavy cream. It’s time to bring it all together—let’s get this sauce simmering!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once your sauce is simmering away invitingly, add back in that cooked pasta along with your chicken. Toss everything together so every noodle is coated in that luscious sauce—it’s where all the magic happens!

Step 6: Melt in Cheese

Now comes the fun part! Stir in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. The goal here is that gooey goodness we all crave. Let everything cook together for a few more minutes until heated through.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Finally, remove your skillet from heat. Garnish generously with fresh basil leaves before serving—this adds such vibrant flavor! Now you’re ready to dig into some seriously delicious Chicken Mozzarella Pasta that’s bound to be a hit at any dinner table. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Cooking can be a joy, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta turns out perfectly every time!

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, basil, and high-quality chicken broth can elevate the flavor profile of your dish significantly. Freshness brings brightness that dried or canned ingredients may lack.
Don’t overcook the pasta: Cooking it to al dente ensures that your pasta remains firm and holds up against the creamy sauce. This prevents a mushy texture and keeps each bite delightful.
Add cheese gradually: Incorporating mozzarella in stages allows it to melt evenly throughout the dish. This makes for a creamier texture and ensures every bite is cheesy goodness.
Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Always taste as you go, especially when adding salt and spices. You can customize the heat level with red pepper flakes too!
Let it rest before serving: Allowing your pasta to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps thicken the sauce slightly. This also enhances the overall flavor as everything melds together beautifully.

How to Serve Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Presentation is key when serving this delicious dish. Here are some ideas on how to make your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta look as good as it tastes!

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil adds a burst of color and an aromatic touch that complements the flavors beautifully.
Shaved Parmesan: A few curls of shaved Parmesan on top not only enhance the visual appeal but also add an extra layer of cheesy flavor.
Cracked black pepper: A light dusting of cracked black pepper over the top offers a touch of sophistication and a hint of spice without overwhelming the dish.

Side Dishes

Garlic bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce and completes your Italian-themed meal.
Mixed green salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta dish. The crunchiness balances out the meal perfectly.
Steamed broccoli: Steamed broccoli adds a vibrant green color to your plate while offering a nutritious side that pairs well with the richness of the pasta.
Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add depth to your meal while being easy to prepare alongside your main dish.

Enjoy making this delightful Chicken Mozzarella Pasta recipe! It’s sure to become a favorite in your household, bringing warmth and comfort with every bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is not just a delightful dinner for today; it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

Cool the dish completely before freezing.
Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Stir until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe.

What is Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?

Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a comforting dish featuring tender chicken, gooey mozzarella cheese, and a creamy tomato sauce coating perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a delightful blend of flavors that comes together in just 30 minutes!

Can I use different types of pasta for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you like, such as penne or fusilli. The key is to cook it al dente so it holds up well in the creamy sauce.

Is Chicken Mozzarella Pasta easy to make?

Yes! This recipe is designed for simplicity and speed, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients and steps, you’ll have a hearty dinner ready in no time.

Can I make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta without heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream if you’re looking for a lighter version. For an even healthier option, you could use Greek yogurt mixed with some broth!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta as I do! It’s a special recipe that brings comfort and smiles around the dinner table. Enjoy every cheesy bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or ask questions. Happy cooking!

Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

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Author: Autumn
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Category: Main
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: Italian

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Description

If you’re searching for a comforting and satisfying meal that can be prepared in no time, Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is your answer! This delightful dish features tender chicken pieces enveloped in a creamy tomato sauce, complemented by gooey mozzarella cheese and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s not only quick enough for busy weeknights but also special enough to impress at family gatherings. With its rich flavors and cheesy goodness, this one-pot wonder transforms simple ingredients into a heartwarming experience that brings smiles to the table.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and black pepper to taste
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz), undrained
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

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Instructions

Cook the pasta according to package directions in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Season chicken with salt and pepper, cooking until golden brown (5-7 minutes). Remove from skillet.
In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant (30 seconds). Add Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes.
Stir in diced tomatoes (with juice), chicken broth, and heavy cream; simmer for about 5 minutes.
Return cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet; toss to combine with sauce.
Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
Garnish with fresh basil before serving.