Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that comes together quickly, this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is just what you need! It’s one of those recipes that brings warmth to the table and comfort to your soul. With tender chicken, gooey mozzarella, and a creamy tomato sauce hugging each piece of pasta, it’s hard not to fall in love with every bite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy everyone around the table.

What makes this recipe even better is how easy it is to whip up. In about 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve. Trust me; this is one recipe you’ll want to keep close at hand!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the cheesy goodness and comforting flavors—perfect for picky eaters!
• One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes mean more time enjoying your meal and less time cleaning up afterward.
• Deliciously Versatile: You can easily switch up ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the ingredients ahead of time for an even quicker dinner option when you’re short on time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful dish. Each one plays a key role in creating that rich flavor and creamy texture everyone loves.

For the Pasta

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

For the Sauce and Chicken

• 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 Goodness

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish

• Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish

Variations

One of the best things about this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for an extra serving of veggies.
• Change the cheese: Try substituting mozzarella with provolone or gouda for unique flavors.
• Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños if you like a kick!

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 properly cooked pasta will hold onto that delicious sauce beautifully. Once it’s al dente, drain it and set aside while we prepare everything else.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Season your bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and black pepper—this will enhance their flavor! Cook them until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Removing them from the pan ensures they stay juicy while we make our sauce.

Step 3: Add Garlic & Seasonings

Now it’s time to build flavor! In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn it! Then stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if you’re using them; this adds an aromatic touch that makes your kitchen smell heavenly.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Next up is our luscious sauce! Pour in those diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken broth, and heavy cream into the skillet. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer. This step allows all those lovely flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Pasta & Chicken

Once your sauce is simmering away happily, it’s time to add back in that cooked pasta along with your sautéed chicken. Toss everything together so each piece of pasta gets coated in that creamy goodness. It’s all about ensuring every bite has that wonderful flavor!

Step 6: Add Cheese

Now comes the magical moment where we add shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese into our dish. Stir until melted and incorporated; this creates that gooey texture we’re all craving! Let everything cook together for another few minutes until heated through.

Step 7: Serve & Garnish

Finally, remove your skillet from heat! To finish off this delightful meal, garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. The fresh herbs add such a vibrant touch that complements all those comforting flavors perfectly.

And there you have it—your very own Chicken Mozzarella Pasta ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Creating a delicious Chicken Mozzarella Pasta dish is easy and rewarding with a few helpful tips that will elevate your culinary experience!

• Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for pasta shapes like penne or fusilli that hold onto the sauce well. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook the chicken just until golden brown and cooked through to maintain its tenderness. Overcooking can lead to dry chicken, which isn’t what we want in our creamy dish!

• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh garlic and high-quality mozzarella cheese makes a noticeable difference in flavor. Fresh ingredients enhance the overall taste and aroma of your meal.

• Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or unsweetened plant-based milk. This keeps it creamy but less indulgent!

• Make It Ahead: You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce in advance, then simply combine everything when you’re ready to eat. This is perfect for those busy weeknights!

How to Serve Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Serving your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta beautifully enhances the dining experience, making it more enjoyable for everyone at the table.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a kick, sprinkling some additional red pepper flakes on top can bring an extra layer of heat and excitement.
• Parmesan Cheese: A light dusting of extra grated Parmesan cheese not only adds flavor but also gives an appealing look to your dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate. It’s a classic companion to Italian dishes!
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli not only provides color but also adds nutrients and a satisfying crunch alongside your creamy pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus are flavorful side options that complement the main dish beautifully.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta night is set to impress! Enjoy every bite of this comforting meal with loved ones around your dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is not only a delightful dinner option, but it’s also perfect for meal prep! It stores beautifully and can save you time during the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the pasta is fully cooled before sealing the container to prevent moisture build-up.

Freezing

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer servings into freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, label with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore creaminess.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some answers to common questions about this delicious dish!

Can I use another type of cheese instead of mozzarella for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like provolone, gouda, or even a sprinkle of feta for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that melting properties may vary.

How can I make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta healthier?

To lighten up this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta, consider using whole grain pasta or adding more vegetables like spinach or zucchini. You can also reduce the amount of cheese and cream without sacrificing flavor!

What should I serve with Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?

This recipe pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. A slice of garlic bread would also be a delightful addition!

Can I make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta in advance?

Yes! Prepare it ahead of time and store it as directed above. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta as comforting and delicious as I do! It’s one of those recipes that brings warmth and joy to your table, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Enjoy making this dish and savor every bite. Happy cooking!