Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

If you’re looking for a cozy and satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is just what you need! This dish combines tender chicken with gooey mozzarella and a creamy tomato sauce, all stirred together with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s an easy, no-fuss recipe that comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become a favorite in your household!

What I love most about this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is how comforting it is. The flavors blend beautifully, creating a dish that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s so simple to whip up that even beginner cooks can impress their friends and family with it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy sauce and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the sauce in advance and simply add the pasta when you’re ready to eat.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of garlic, Italian seasoning, and fresh basil elevates the dish to a whole new level of yum!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this delightful Chicken Mozzarella Pasta, you’ll use simple and wholesome ingredients that bring out the best flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Pasta

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

For the Chicken

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Sauce

• 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 Topping

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

Variations

This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is incredibly flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or even tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers to increase the nutrition and flavor.
• Make it lighter: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free option.
• Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños if you’re feeling adventurous!

How to Make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

First things first: cook your pasta! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked pasta serves as the base for our delicious 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 they are golden brown and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes. Removing them at this stage ensures they stay juicy and flavorful.

Step 3: Add Garlic

In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add minced garlic. Sauté briefly until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Be careful not to burn it; burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin your dish!

Step 4: Flavor It Up

Next, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together to combine these delicious flavors before moving on to our saucy goodness.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Now it’s time for our star ingredients! Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken broth, and heavy cream into the skillet. Stir well and bring this mixture to a simmer. Letting it simmer helps meld all those fantastic flavors together.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Once your sauce is simmering nicely, add back in your cooked pasta along with the sautéed chicken. Toss everything together gently so every piece gets coated with that creamy goodness.

Step 7: Melt in Cheese

Stir in both shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated into your dish. Cooking for an extra few minutes will ensure everything is warmed through—trust me; you want this pasta piping hot!

Step 8: Garnish & Serve

Finally, remove your skillet from heat. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top before serving—this adds a lovely touch of freshness right before digging in!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Chicken Mozzarella Pasta! It’s comfort food at its finest—enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Creating the perfect Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is all about attention to detail and a few clever tricks! Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Choose the right pasta: Opting for pasta like penne or fusilli allows the sauce to cling beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

• Don’t rush the chicken: Cook your chicken pieces until golden brown. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives you that delightful texture contrast in your final dish.

• Use fresh basil: Adding fresh basil as a garnish brings a vibrant pop of color and a fresh aroma that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

• Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, feel free to reduce the amount of heavy cream slightly or substitute with half-and-half. This keeps the dish creamy while cutting down on calories.

• Make it spicy: If you’re a fan of heat, don’t hesitate to increase the red pepper flakes! This little kick can really enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.

How to Serve Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Serving your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta beautifully can make all the difference at dinner time! Here are some simple yet effective ways to present this mouthwatering meal.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil not only adds color but also infuses a fresh taste that balances out the richness of the cheese.
• Parmesan shavings: Lightly shaved Parmesan on top provides an elegant touch and enhances the cheesy flavor.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper adds a lovely visual contrast and a hint of spice without overpowering other flavors.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. Plus, who can resist that irresistible aroma?
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Steamed broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli is not only nutritious but also adds color and crunch, making your plate more visually appealing.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring depth and earthiness to your meal, complementing the rich flavors of Chicken Mozzarella Pasta beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re sure to impress everyone at your dinner table! Enjoy creating this delicious dish that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is not only a delightful dish to enjoy right away, but it also shines when it comes to meal prep! You can easily make this in advance and have tasty meals ready for the busy days ahead.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Portion the cooled Chicken Mozzarella Pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Make sure to leave some space in the container as the pasta may expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring until heated through.

FAQs

If you have any questions about this delicious recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries that might pop up.

Can I use other types of cheese in Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?

Absolutely! While mozzarella adds that gooey texture we love, feel free to experiment with cheeses like provolone or fontina for different flavors. Just ensure they melt well!

How long does Chicken Mozzarella Pasta last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Be sure to reheat thoroughly before enjoying!

Can I make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta without heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream. The dish will still be creamy and delicious!

What type of pasta works best with Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?

Penne or fusilli are excellent choices because their shapes hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully. However, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making and sharing this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta with your loved ones as much as I do! It’s a comforting, flavorful dish that brings everyone together, perfect for any night of the week. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients—cooking should always be fun! Happy cooking!