Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

If you’re looking for a quick, hearty meal that tastes like it’s been simmering all day, you’ve landed in the right spot! This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta has been a family favorite of mine for years. It combines tender chicken pieces and gooey mozzarella with a rich tomato-cream sauce that blankets al dente pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

Not only is this recipe packed with flavor, but it also comes together in just 30 minutes. So whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to a lovely dinner, Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is here to save the day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness and comforting flavors, it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep some ingredients ahead of time, so when dinner time rolls around, you can whip it up in no time!
• Flexible Ingredients: You can easily swap out or add veggies to make it your own.
• Deliciously Creamy: The combination of heavy cream and melted mozzarella creates a luxurious sauce that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a breeze with these simple, wholesome ingredients. You’ll find they come together beautifully to create an unforgettable dish.

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

For the Cheese Topping

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish

Variations

One of the best things about this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is its flexibility! You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: Try using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in spinach or bell peppers for some extra nutrition and color.
• Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream if you’re looking to cut calories without sacrificing flavor.
• Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or toss in some diced jalapeños for an extra kick!

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 is essential as it ensures your pasta will be perfectly al dente—just firm enough to hold up against all that creamy sauce!

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Season your chicken pieces with salt and black pepper before adding them to the skillet. Cook until golden brown and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes. Removing the chicken from the pan allows you to build layers of flavor without overcrowding.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Seasonings

In that same skillet (don’t clean it—flavor lives here!), toss in minced garlic. Sauté briefly until fragrant—this should take about 30 seconds. Don’t let it burn; we want that lovely garlic aroma without bitterness! Next, stir in Italian seasoning and optional red pepper flakes.

Step 4: Create the Sauce Base

Add those undrained diced tomatoes along with chicken broth and heavy cream into your skillet. Give everything a good stir and bring it to a simmer. This simmering action melds all those delicious flavors together beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once simmering away nicely, add back in your cooked pasta and sautéed chicken. Toss everything together so that every piece of pasta is coated lovingly in that creamy tomato sauce.

Step 6: Cheese It Up!

Stir in shredded mozzarella along with grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well incorporated into the sauce. This step transforms your dish into an ooey-gooey masterpiece! Let everything heat through for just a few more minutes.

Step 7: Serve with Love

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. This final touch adds brightness both visually and flavor-wise—a perfect way to finish off such a comforting meal!

Enjoy every cheesy bite of this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta! It’s not just food; it’s love on a plate.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Cooking can be a delightful experience, and these pro tips will ensure your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and basil can significantly enhance the flavor of your dish, giving it that homemade touch that makes all the difference.

• Don’t overcook the chicken: Aim for juicy, tender chicken by cooking just until golden brown. Overcooking can lead to dry chicken, which isn’t as enjoyable in a creamy pasta dish.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: The flavors of your dish can vary based on personal preference, so don’t hesitate to taste and adjust salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as you go along.

• Save some pasta water: Before draining your pasta, reserve a cup of the starchy cooking water. This can help adjust the consistency of your sauce if it becomes too thick.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully and ensures a better overall texture.

How to Serve Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Presenting your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta beautifully can elevate the dining experience. Here are some ideas to make it shine on your table!

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil Leaves: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil adds a pop of color and an aromatic freshness that complements the rich flavors.
• Extra Cheese: A light dusting of grated Parmesan or additional mozzarella right before serving adds an inviting touch and enhances the cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for mopping up that delicious sauce. Its buttery flavor pairs harmoniously with the creamy pasta.

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette provides contrast in texture and freshness, balancing out the richness of the main dish.

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and nutrients while complementing the savory notes of the pasta.

• Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green side dish not only adds nutritional value but also offers a nice crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta.

Enjoy your cooking adventure with this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta recipe! With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create a warm and inviting meal that’s sure to please family and friends alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to whip up a comforting dish that can be enjoyed throughout the week. With proper storage, you can savor this delightful meal even after the initial cooking.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Keep any extra cheese or garnishes separate until ready to serve.

Freezing

• Let the pasta cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen pasta in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, use a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying out.
• Stir occasionally until heated through; you can also microwave in short intervals if preferred.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Chicken Mozzarella Pasta that might help you in your cooking journey!

Can I make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta without heavy cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based alternative like coconut cream for a lighter version.

How can I add more flavor to my Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?

Consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. Fresh herbs, such as thyme or oregano, also enhance the flavor profile beautifully!

What type of pasta works best for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?

While penne and fusilli are great options, feel free to use any pasta shape you love—just ensure it’s cooked al dente for the best texture!

Can I prepare Chicken Mozzarella Pasta in advance?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge or freeze them for later enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta warms your heart and brings comfort to your dinner table! It’s a creamy, cheesy delight that’s not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. I encourage you to give it a try—you’ll find it’s a crowd-pleaser that makes every meal feel special. Happy cooking!