Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is the answer! This recipe is a family favorite in my home. It combines tender chicken, gooey mozzarella, and a creamy tomato sauce that clings to the pasta perfectly. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you have friends over for dinner.

You’ll love how easy this dish comes together. It’s always a hit, whether I’m serving it at a casual family gathering or simply enjoying it after a long day. The comforting flavors and cheesy goodness will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta cooks up in just 30 minutes, perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the cheesy, creamy flavors—no one can resist that melty mozzarella!
• One-pot wonder: With everything cooked in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze. Less time scrubbing means more time enjoying your meal.
• Customizable: Feel free to tweak the ingredients based on what you have at home or your family’s preferences.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare the sauce ahead of time and toss in the pasta and cheese when you’re ready to eat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of what makes this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta so special. You probably already have many of these items in your kitchen! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Pasta

• 8 oz. pasta (such as penne, fusilli, or your choice)

For the Sauce

• 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 Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is flexible and can be adapted to suit your tastes. Here are some ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Use shrimp or diced turkey instead of chicken for a fun twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers during cooking for extra nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or throw in some sliced jalapeños.
• Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half or a low-fat cream alternative for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.

How to Make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your pasta according to package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water. This step ensures that your pasta has great flavor right from the start! Once done, drain it and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat up the olive oil. Season your cut chicken pieces with salt and black pepper before adding them to the pan. Cook until golden brown and cooked through—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Removing the chicken once cooked keeps it juicy while we prepare our sauce.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant—around 30 seconds to 1 minute should do it. This step is crucial because garlic adds depth and flavor to our dish!

Step 4: Incorporate Spices

Next, sprinkle in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together so those lovely spices infuse into your dish!

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Now it’s time to add diced tomatoes (with their juice), chicken broth, and heavy cream into the mix. Stir well and bring everything to a gentle simmer—this allows all those wonderful flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Combine with Pasta

Once simmering nicely, return your cooked pasta and sautéed chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together thoroughly so each piece of pasta is coated with that luscious sauce.

Step 7: Melt in Cheese

Finally, stir in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until they melt beautifully into your dish. Give it an extra minute or two on low heat until everything is heated through.

Step 8: Garnish & Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. This final touch not only adds color but also brings fresh flavor that elevates your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta to new heights!

Enjoy this comforting dish surrounded by loved ones—it’s sure to become a staple at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Cooking should be fun and stress-free, so here are some pro tips to ensure your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, herbs, and quality chicken can really elevate the flavor of your dish. Using fresh ingredients ensures that every bite is bursting with taste.

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta just until al dente as it will continue to cook when combined with the sauce. This prevents mushy pasta and keeps a nice texture that complements the creamy sauce.

• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, feel free to omit the red pepper flakes. Conversely, if you love heat, add more! Customizing spice levels makes this dish adaptable for everyone at your table.

• Let Cheese Melt Slowly: Stir in the mozzarella gradually and allow it to melt completely before serving. This creates a beautifully creamy texture throughout without clumping.

• Save Some Pasta Water: Reserve a cup of pasta cooking water before draining. If your sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of this starchy water to loosen it up while keeping it flavorful.

How to Serve Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Serving Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is an opportunity to impress your guests or family! It’s all about presentation and pairing with complementary flavors.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil adds not only color but also a burst of aromatic freshness that brightens up each bite.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding a dash on top can elevate the dish visually and taste-wise.
• Parmesan Shavings: Consider adding some delicate shavings of Parmesan cheese right before serving for an elegant touch.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. It’s always a crowd-pleaser!
• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides a crisp contrast with its crunchy romaine and tangy dressing, complementing the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and nutrition while balancing out the meal.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a healthy green element to your plate and pairs wonderfully with cheesy pasta dishes like this one.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta will not only be delicious but also beautifully presented for any occasion! Enjoy every comforting bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch in advance for those busy weeknights when you need a quick and delicious dinner.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover Chicken Mozzarella Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• To freeze, portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Reheat in the microwave on medium power until heated through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful dish, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

Can I make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta without heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with a combination of half-and-half and a little cornstarch for thickness, or use a plant-based cream alternative.

What type of pasta works best for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?

While penne and fusilli are great options, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just ensure it cooks to al dente for the best texture!

How long does Chicken Mozzarella Pasta last in the fridge?

Your leftovers should stay fresh for about 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta as much as I do! It’s such a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy sauce, and gooey mozzarella—what’s not to love? Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is bound to become a favorite. Happy cooking!