Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that the whole family will love, this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is just what you need. It’s one of those recipes that brings everyone together around the dinner table, filling the air with delicious aromas and happy chatter. With tender chicken, gooey mozzarella, and a rich tomato-cream sauce, it’s a meal that feels special but is incredibly easy to whip up on busy weeknights or for a casual family gathering.

What I love most about this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is how quickly it comes together—ready in just 30 minutes! Whether you’re cooking for kids, friends, or simply treating yourself after a long day, this dish never fails to impress. Plus, it’s straightforward enough for even novice cooks to tackle with confidence!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for those hectic evenings when you need dinner on the table fast.
• Family-Friendly: With creamy sauce and cheesy goodness, even picky eaters will clean their plates!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time for a quicker cook time later.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less mess in the kitchen means more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create this mouthwatering Chicken Mozzarella Pasta. You probably have most of these in your pantry already!

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 Cheesy Finish

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

Variations

This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use shrimp or turkey instead of chicken for a tasty twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers to boost nutrition and color.
• 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 toss in some fresh chili peppers if you like heat!

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 ensures that your pasta is perfectly al dente—just firm enough to hold up against our luscious sauce. Once done, drain it and set aside while we work on the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Season your chicken pieces with salt and black pepper before adding them to the skillet. Cook until they’re golden brown and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial because browning adds flavor and texture that makes our dish so delicious!

Step 3: Cook the Garlic

Remove the chicken from the pan once cooked and set aside. In that same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant—just about 30 seconds! Be careful not to burn it; burnt garlic can turn bitter.

Step 4: Add Seasonings

Next, stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous! This combination brings warmth and depth to our sauce.

Step 5: Create the Sauce Base

Now it’s time to pour in those diced tomatoes along with chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir everything together and bring it all to a gentle simmer. This melding of flavors is what makes our sauce so rich.

Step 6: Combine Pasta & Chicken

Once simmering nicely, return both your cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together so each piece gets beautifully coated with that creamy tomato sauce.

Step 7: Add Cheese

Now comes my favorite part: stirring in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until they melt into that comforting sauce. Give it an extra few minutes on low heat until everything is heated through—oh-so-delicious!

Step 8: Garnish & Serve

Finally, remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. The aroma alone will have everyone rushing to the table!

And there you have it—a comforting bowl of Chicken Mozzarella Pasta ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Cooking can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta to a whole new level!

• Choose the right pasta: Opt for pasta shapes that hold onto the sauce well, like penne or fusilli. Their ridges and curves capture all that delicious tomato-cream goodness.

• Don’t overcook the chicken: To keep your chicken tender and juicy, cook it just until it’s golden brown and no longer pink in the center. Overcooking can lead to dry pieces that detract from your dish’s flavor.

• Use fresh herbs: Adding fresh basil at the end not only provides a burst of color but also enhances the flavor profile. Fresh herbs are always more aromatic than dried ones.

• Adjust the creaminess: Feel free to modify the amount of heavy cream based on your preference! If you like it creamier, add a little more; if you prefer a lighter dish, reduce it slightly.

• Make it ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance! Simply reheat on low and add a splash of broth or cream to loosen up the sauce before serving.

How to Serve Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Presentation can make all the difference when serving this comforting dish. Here are some delightful ways to serve Chicken Mozzarella Pasta that’ll impress your family or guests!

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds vibrant color and freshness.
• Crushed red pepper: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes on top can elevate the flavor beautifully.
• Extra cheese: A light dusting of additional mozzarella or Parmesan right before serving can make your dish look even more inviting.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Perfect for sopping up that creamy sauce, garlic bread is a classic companion that everyone loves. You can easily make it by spreading butter mixed with minced garlic on slices of baguette and toasting them until golden.

• Caesar salad: This crisp salad is packed with flavors from Romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing. It’s a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta dish.

• Steamed vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans bring vibrant colors and nutrients to your meal. Lightly steaming them keeps their crunch while adding an appealing freshness alongside your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta.

• Roasted Mediterranean vegetables: Roasting vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant brings out their natural sweetness. Toss them with olive oil and herbs for an irresistible side that complements your main dish wonderfully.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’ll create not only a delicious Chicken Mozzarella Pasta but also an enjoyable meal experience for everyone at your table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta recipe is fantastic for meal prep! You can easily whip it up ahead of time, making those busy weeknights a breeze. Here’s how to store and reheat your delicious leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the pasta cool, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen pasta in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

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

Absolutely! While mozzarella is traditional, feel free to experiment with cheeses like provolone or gouda for a unique twist.

How do I make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients remain safe and delicious!

Can I prepare Chicken Mozzarella Pasta without chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a vegetarian option that’s still satisfying.

What can I serve with Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug on your plate that brings everyone together. Don’t hesitate to try it out—I’m sure you’ll love every cheesy bite. Happy cooking!