There’s something truly comforting about a steaming plate of Chicken Mozzarella Pasta, especially after a long day. Picture this: tender chicken nestled among twirls of al dente pasta, all enveloped in a rich, creamy tomato sauce that sings with Italian flavors. I was hunting for a quick weeknight dinner when I stumbled upon this delightful creation, and it quickly became a favorite in my home.
This dish is not just another meal; it’s a celebration of simplicity and indulgence. With ingredients you likely already have, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you crave something homemade yet effortless. The gooey, melted mozzarella adds a delightful stretch that turns every bite into pure bliss. So grab your skillet and let’s transform dinner into a warm hug that promises to please everyone at the table!
Why is Chicken Mozzarella Pasta a must-try?
Comforting, creamy goodness: Every forkful delivers the warmth of homemade Italian cuisine.
Quick prep time: Whip up this delightful dish in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
Beginner-friendly: No culinary expertise? No problem! You’ll impress even the pickiest eaters with ease.
Versatile ingredients: Use what you have; open to creative swaps with veggies or different cheeses.
Family favorite: It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings everyone to the table with smiles.
Serving suggestions: Pair with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal experience!
Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Ingredients
• Create a flavorful dish that everyone will love!
For the Pasta
• Pasta (300 g) – Provides the main structure and heartiness. Substitute with fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle for variety.
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breast (300 g) – Offers protein and texture. Can substitute with turkey or skip for a vegetarian option.
• Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – Used for cooking the chicken and adds healthy fat. Can be replaced with butter for a richer flavor.
For the Sauce
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Provides aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is recommended for the best taste.
• Dried Italian Herbs (1 tsp) – Enhances flavor; substitute with a mix of oregano and basil if unavailable.
• Crushed Tomatoes (1 can, 400 g) – Forms the base of the sauce; can also use fresh diced tomatoes or marinara for convenience.
• Heavy Cream (1/2 cup) – Adds creaminess to the sauce; replace with half-and-half or a milk alternative for a lighter version.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning the dish to taste.
For the Cheesy Finish
• Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded) – Provides the cheesy finish that makes this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta irresistible; can use provolone or fontina for a different flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated) – Adds sharpness and depth; Pecorino Romano is a suitable substitute.
For Garnish
• Fresh Basil Leaves – Adds freshness as a garnish; can substitute with parsley if desired.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – For added heat; omit for a milder flavor.
How to Make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, letting it cool slightly.
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Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and dried herbs. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate to rest.
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Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
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Simmer the Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Add the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce becomes creamy and thickens slightly.
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Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat it well with the creamy tomato sauce.
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Toss in the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing until everything is well combined and the pasta is coated in the sauce.
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Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the pasta. Stir gently until the cheeses melt and blend smoothly into the dish.
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Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and top with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Optional: Add a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?
There’s something special about pairing your creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta with the right accompaniments to elevate your meal.
- Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery layers of garlic bread complement the creamy pasta perfectly, allowing for the ultimate scoop-and-savor experience.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors, with crunchy romaine and zesty dressing to balance the dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add a medley of colorful roasted veggies to your plate for an extra serving of texture and flavor. Their sweetness enhances the pasta’s creaminess beautifully.
- White Wine: A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay pairs seamlessly with your meal, enhancing the flavors while providing a refreshing contrast.
- Pesto Drizzle: For an herbal uplift, a drizzle of basil pesto over the top adds vibrant color and an aromatic freshness that livens up each bite.
- Lemon Sorbet: End the meal on a refreshing note with lemon sorbet, cutting through the creamy richness of the pasta and leaving you feeling light and satisfied.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the pasta and chicken up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their quality. The sauce can also be prepared up to 3 days ahead and stored in the fridge—just reheat gently over low heat when you’re ready to serve. To finish, combine the reheated chicken and pasta with the sauce, stirring in the shredded mozzarella until melted, and enjoy a comforting dish made with minimal effort. This makes a busy weeknight dinner not just a dream, but a reality!
Expert Tips for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
• Pasta Perfection: Ensure the pasta is al dente before draining to maintain the right texture in your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta.
• Cheese Choices: Use freshly grated mozzarella for melting. Pre-shredded cheese can affect the sauce’s creaminess.
• Simmering Secrets: Allow the crushed tomatoes to simmer long enough to develop rich flavors; don’t rush this step!
• Creamy Consistency: Stir in the heavy cream slowly, ensuring it’s fully incorporated before adding the chicken back into the sauce.
• Flavor Boost: Enhance your dish by adding sautéed vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, for added nutrition and flavor.
• Storage Success: Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat on low to prevent the sauce from separating, ensuring your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta remains delicious!
Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this delicious dish to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a hearty plant-based meal. This version beautifully captures the essence of the dish while keeping it satisfying.
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Spinach Boost: Add a handful of fresh spinach or kale to the sauce during the last couple of minutes of cooking. Not only does it enhance nutrition, but it also adds a lovely color contrast to the creamy goodness!
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Cream Cheese Twist: For an extra creamy sauce, mix in a dollop of cream cheese when adding the heavy cream. This adds a delightful tang and richness that balances perfectly with the tomatoes.
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Spicy Kick: Amp up the flavor with diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce as you sauté the garlic. This small change adds a vibrant, spicy note that will please those who love a little heat in their meals.
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Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate your dish! Swap dried Italian herbs for fresh thyme, oregano, or basil. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs to give the dish a fresh burst of flavor.
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Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses, such as gouda, gruyere, or smoked mozzarella. Each will impart a unique flavor twist, ensuring you never get bored with the recipe!
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Pasta Alternatives: Switch out traditional pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free varieties, such as quinoa pasta, to cater to dietary preferences while still enjoying all the creamy goodness.
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Mushroom Medley: For umami richness, add sautéed mushrooms to amp up the savory flavor profile. Mushrooms blend seamlessly with the creamy sauce and chicken, turning a classic dish into something remarkable!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the pasta is cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the Chicken Mozzarella Pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce thickens. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
Serving Tip: Freshly garnish with basil and a sprinkle of cheese after reheating to revive flavors and presentation!
Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pasta for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?
Absolutely! For Chicken Mozzarella Pasta, you want a pasta shape that holds sauce well. I recommend using penne or rigatoni; they have ridges that catch the creamy sauce beautifully. Fusilli is also a great choice for its spiral shape that adds a delightful texture, while farfalle gives a fun twist to the plate!
How should I store leftover Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?
Very simply! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the pasta cool completely before sealing to keep it fresh and prevent condensation from forming inside the container.
Can I freeze Chicken Mozzarella Pasta for later?
Yes! To freeze, let the pasta come to room temperature and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream to revive its creaminess.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce has thickened too much, don’t worry! Just add a splash of chicken broth or cream while reheating. Stir continuously on low heat until it reaches your desired consistency. You can also add a tablespoon of pasta water to loosen it up for a silky finish!
Is Chicken Mozzarella Pasta safe for people with dairy allergies?
Great question! Unfortunately, traditional Chicken Mozzarella Pasta contains dairy, so it’s not suitable for those with dairy allergies. However, you can make a dairy-free version by substituting heavy cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or almond milk, and using dairy-free cheese options available in stores.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The key is to check! Chicken breast should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). It should be golden brown on the outside, and as you slice into it, the meat should no longer be pink, ensuring a juicy and safe-to-eat dish. Remember to let it rest for a couple of minutes after cooking before slicing to keep it tender!
Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta for Effortless Dinner Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, letting it cool slightly.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and dried herbs. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate to rest.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce becomes creamy and thickens slightly.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat it well with the creamy tomato sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing until everything is well combined and the pasta is coated in the sauce.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the pasta. Stir gently until the cheeses melt and blend smoothly into the dish.
- Remove from heat and top with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
