Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that feels like a warm hug, then Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is just the dish for you. This recipe combines tender chicken, gooey mozzarella, and a creamy tomato sauce, all wrapped around your favorite pasta. It’s a comforting meal that you can whip up in just 30 minutes! Great for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish brings everyone together at the table.

What makes this recipe so special is how easily it blends rich flavors with simple ingredients. You’ll appreciate how quick it is to prepare, and your loved ones will definitely savor each cheesy bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can have this delightful dinner ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With cheesy goodness and tender chicken, even picky eaters will ask for seconds!
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to relax after dinner. Who doesn’t love that?
• Deliciously Versatile: Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or pasta shapes.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, making dinner a breeze!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to bring this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta to life. Each component adds something special to the dish, ensuring a rich and flavorful experience.

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 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 recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adjust it to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or tofu instead of chicken for a lighter option.
• Add some veggies: Toss in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
• Change up the cheese: Mix in some cheddar or gouda if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like oregano for an added flavor 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. The salt helps flavor the pasta while it cooks. Drain it once it reaches al dente and set aside. This initial step ensures that your pasta is perfectly cooked and ready to absorb all those delicious flavors later.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil until shimmering. 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 in the next steps.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasonings

In the same skillet, toss in your minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant—just about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Be sure not to burn it; burnt garlic can turn bitter! Then add Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using) and stir everything together to let those flavors mingle.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Now it’s time to add in those diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir well and bring everything to a gentle simmer. This step is key because simmering allows all those lovely flavors to develop fully!

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Once simmering away nicely, return both the cooked pasta and sautéed chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together gently so that every piece gets coated with that luscious sauce—it’s going to be so good!

Step 6: Add Cheese Galore!

Finally, stir in your shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until they melt into creamy perfection. Cook for an additional few minutes until everything is heated throughout. This final touch makes your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta irresistibly cheesy!

Step 7: Serve with Love

Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves before serving. Enjoy this hearty meal with loved ones gathered around; it’s sure to become a cherished favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Creating the perfect Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is easy when you follow a few helpful tips!

• Choose the right pasta: Opt for a shape that holds sauce well, such as penne or fusilli. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

• Season your chicken generously: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper! A well-seasoned chicken enhances the overall taste of the dish.

• Mind the garlic: Sautéing garlic just until fragrant prevents it from burning, which can give a bitter taste to your sauce. Keep an eye on it for that perfect balance.

• Add cheese at the right time: Incorporating mozzarella towards the end allows it to melt beautifully without clumping. This ensures a creamy texture throughout.

• Adjust creaminess to taste: If you prefer a lighter dish, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute part of it with additional chicken broth. It’s all about personal preference!

How to Serve Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Presentation elevates your meal from just tasty to truly special. Here are some ideas for serving this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil not only adds a pop of color but also brings a refreshing aroma that complements the creamy sauce.
• Crushed red pepper: For those who enjoy a kick, offering crushed red pepper on the side allows guests to customize their spice level.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crisp, buttery garlic bread is an irresistible pairing. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
• Mixed greens salad: A light salad with vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the pasta. Think fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers tossed in a zesty dressing.
• Steamed vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans lightly steamed add vibrant color and nutrition to your meal while keeping it light and healthy.
• Roasted vegetables: Caramelized seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers provide a sweet contrast that complements the creaminess of the pasta.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create not just a meal but an experience that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every delicious bite of your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta recipe is fantastic for meal prep! It stores well, making it easy to enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

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

Reheating

• Thaw frozen pasta in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to prevent drying out.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you may have about this delightful dish!

Can I make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta without heavy cream?

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

How can I spice up my Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?

To add more flavor, consider incorporating additional vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. You can also adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.

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

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or provolone, for a unique twist on this classic dish.

What type of pasta works best for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?

Penne and fusilli are great options since they hold onto the sauce well. However, you can use any pasta shape you prefer!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this comforting Chicken Mozzarella Pasta! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and flavor that brings everyone together. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or sharing it with loved ones, I’m sure you’ll create wonderful memories around this dish. Happy cooking!

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