Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that feels like a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place! This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is one of my all-time favorites. It’s creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor—all in just 30 minutes! Whether you’re juggling a busy weeknight or hosting family for a casual gathering, this dish is sure to impress.

What makes this recipe special is how the tender chicken and gooey mozzarella cheese come together in a luscious tomato-cream sauce. It’s an easy-to-make meal that everyone will love. Trust me, once you try it, it might just become your new go-to!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike can’t resist the cheesy goodness.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to relax after dinner.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever pasta shape you love best!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it in advance for an even easier dinner later.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta are simple and wholesome. You’ll find everything you need right at your local grocery store. Let’s gather these delicious items for our comforting 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

This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is wonderfully flexible! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or use up what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or even tofu instead of chicken for a different spin.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or zucchini for extra nutrients and color.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or fontina.
• Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or toss in some sliced jalapeños for a 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 crucial because perfectly cooked pasta is key to a delightful dish! Once al dente, drain and set aside.

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 before adding them to the skillet. Cook until they are golden brown and fully cooked through—about 5-7 minutes—then remove from the pan. This browning helps develop rich flavors!

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Add Seasonings

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant—about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Be careful not to burn it; burnt garlic can turn bitter! Then stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous.

Step 4: Create the Sauce Base

Next, add diced tomatoes (with juices), chicken broth, and heavy cream into the skillet. Stir well and bring everything to a gentle simmer. This will create that luscious sauce that your pasta will soak up beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Once simmering happily away, toss in your cooked pasta and sautéed chicken back into the skillet. Gently mix everything together so every piece gets coated in that creamy sauce—it’s where all the magic happens!

Step 6: Add Cheese

Now comes the best part! Stir in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Cook for an additional few minutes until everything is heated through. The cheese adds such richness; it’s hard not to sneak a taste at this point!

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finally, remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. The basil not only looks beautiful but also adds a fresh flavor burst that brightens up this hearty dish.

And there you have it—a delicious Chicken Mozzarella Pasta ready in no time! Enjoy every cheesy bite with friends or family; they won’t be able to get enough!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Creating the perfect Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is simple with a few handy tips!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, basil, and quality chicken make a significant difference in flavor. They enhance the dish’s overall taste and aroma, bringing it to life.

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Aim for al dente pasta as it will continue cooking slightly when combined with the sauce. This ensures your dish has the right texture and avoids a mushy outcome.

• Adjust the spice level: Feel free to omit or add more red pepper flakes according to your heat preference. Customizing the spice allows everyone at your table to enjoy the meal comfortably.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully. It also makes serving easier!

• Experiment with cheese: While mozzarella is delicious, you can mix it up by adding provolone or fontina cheese for extra richness. This adds complexity to the dish and keeps things interesting.

How to Serve Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Serving Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is all about presentation and complementing flavors. Here are some delightful ideas to elevate your dining experience!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens the dish.
• Crushed red pepper: For those who love a little kick, offering crushed red pepper on the side allows guests to customize their heat level.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: A light dusting of Parmesan on top just before serving enhances the cheesy goodness and adds an appealing finish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: A warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce. Its crunch complements the creamy pasta perfectly.
• Simple green salad: Toss together mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. The crispness balances out the richness of the pasta.
• Steamed vegetables: Broccoli or green beans can be quickly steamed and seasoned lightly, providing both color and nutrition alongside your meal.
• Roasted zucchini: Slice zucchini into rounds, season, and roast until tender. Its slight sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of Chicken Mozzarella Pasta.

Now you’re all set to impress family or friends with this delightful dish! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for quick weeknight dinners or lunches. Here’s how to keep your delicious pasta fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion out the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• For best results, consider freezing without the cheese and adding it when reheating.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave’s defrost setting.
• Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent sticking.
• Stir frequently until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta recipe:

Can I use a different type of pasta for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?

Absolutely! You can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti, rigatoni, or gluten-free options. Just adjust cooking time as needed.

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

You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini during the cooking process. Sauté them after cooking the chicken for extra flavor and nutrition.

Is Chicken Mozzarella Pasta suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish stores well in the fridge and can be frozen for later meals. Just follow our storage tips above!

What can I use instead of heavy cream in Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?

For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative. They will still provide a creamy texture without compromising flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta! It’s not only comforting but also versatile enough to fit into your busy lifestyle. Whether it’s a family dinner or meal prep for the week, this dish is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every cheesy bite and feel free to get creative with your ingredients! Happy cooking!