After a long day filled with hustle and bustle, I found myself longing for a comforting meal that could turn my kitchen into a cozy Italian trattoria. That’s when I stumbled across my newest obsession: Chicken Mozzarella Pasta. Picture this: tender chicken sautéed to perfection, enveloped in a creamy tomato sauce, and tossed with al dente pasta, all topped off with gooey melted mozzarella.
I can still remember the first time I made this dish—it was a busy weeknight, and I wanted something quick yet impressive. In under 30 minutes, this creamy delight transformed my kitchen into a haven of mouthwatering aromas, putting an end to my fast-food fatigue. Not only is it beginner-friendly, but it also delights everyone at the dinner table, making it a perfect go-to for any night of the week. So grab your apron; dinner is just moments away!
Why Is Chicken Mozzarella Pasta a Must-Try?
Indulgent, Creamy Goodness: This chicken pasta dish oozes richness, promising a comforting experience that elevates any weeknight meal.
Quick and Easy: With prep and cooking time under 30 minutes, you can whip this up even on the busiest days.
Family-Friendly: Its luscious sauce and cheesy topping make it a hit with kids and adults alike!
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out chicken for your favorite veggies or try different cheese blends for a unique twist.
Beginner-Friendly: Even if you’re a new cook, you can master this recipe without breaking a sweat. For more simple ideas, check out our easy pasta recipes.
Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Ingredients
• • Ready to create a creamy delight?
For the Pasta
- Pasta (300g) – Use penne, fusilli, or rigatoni for the best sauce adhesion.
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breast (300g) – Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons) – Adds richness and flavor; can substitute with vegetable oil.
For the Sauce
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – A key aromatic ingredient that enhances flavor.
- Dried Italian Herbs (1 teaspoon) – Adds depth to the sauce; substitute with mixed or fresh herbs if available.
- Crushed Tomatoes (1 can, 400g) – Forms the sauce base, contributing sweetness and acidity.
- Heavy Cream (1/2 cup) – Provides creaminess; substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings for flavor enhancement.
For the Cheesy Topping
- Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded) – The main cheese for creaminess; Fontina or Gouda can also be used.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated) – Adds nuttiness; can replace with Pecorino Romano.
- Fresh Basil Leaves – For garnish and added freshness; optional substitute with parsley.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Add optional heat depending on your preference.
Let the cooking begin; soon you’ll savor the magic of Chicken Mozzarella Pasta!
How to Make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
-
Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, which usually takes about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
-
Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and dried herbs, then cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Set aside.
-
Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to let it burn!
-
Create Sauce Base: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly for about 5 minutes.
-
Add Cream: Next, stir in the heavy cream and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until your sauce is beautifully creamy.
-
Combine Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing it thoroughly with the creamy tomato sauce.
-
Merge Pasta: Gently add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
-
Add Cheeses: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the mixture. Stir occasionally until the cheeses are melted and creamy.
-
Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, if desired.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Dish out your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta while it’s hot, and savor the delightful cheesy goodness!
Optional: Drizzle with a splash of olive oil before serving for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on low heat, ensuring to add a splash of cream to revive the sauce.
Freezer: If frozen, Chicken Mozzarella Pasta can last up to 2 months. Cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Room Temperature: Do not leave Chicken Mozzarella Pasta at room temperature for over 2 hours to avoid food safety issues.
Reheating: When reheating from the fridge or freezer, add a bit of extra cream or a splash of water to maintain the creamy texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Mozzarella Pasta bowls are perfect for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy weeknights! You can cook the pasta and chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Simply boil the pasta, sauté the chicken, and then store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can prepare the tomato cream sauce and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. To maintain the quality, make sure to allow the chicken and pasta to cool completely before refrigerating. When you’re ready to enjoy your creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta, gently reheat the sauce in a skillet over low heat, add the chicken and pasta, and stir in the cheeses until melted for a delightful dinner experience that feels just as fresh!
Expert Tips for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
-
Pasta Cooking: Ensure you cook the pasta al dente to hold its shape and texture when mixed with the creamy sauce.
-
Chicken Juiciness: Avoid overcooking the chicken; aim for a golden brown color while keeping it juicy for the best flavor.
-
Creamy Sauce: For an extra creamy chicken pasta, stir in a splash of pasta cooking water if the sauce gets too thick.
-
Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda for a unique flavor twist that complements the mozzarella in your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta.
-
Fresh Herbs: Don’t skip the fresh basil garnish; it adds a burst of freshness that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
What to Serve with Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?
Transform your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta into a delightful feast with these perfect pairings!
- Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery slices of garlic bread provide a satisfying crunch and soak up the creamy sauce, adding to the comfort of your meal.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons create a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta, balancing your dining experience beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies caramelized to perfection add color and a touch of sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor harmony of your dish.
- Fresh Caprese Salad: Tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette provide a fresh, zesty complement that lightens the richness of the pasta.
- Italian Wine: A glass of Chianti or Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully, enhancing the Italian essence of your meal and making it feel like a special occasion.
- Tiramisu: End your dinner on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert, its creamy coffee-soaked layers contrasting beautifully with the savory pasta.
Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Variations
Embrace the creativity in your kitchen and customize this delightful dish to match your taste preferences!
-
Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with a medley of sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach for a colorful, veggie-packed version.
It’s amazing how the vegetables soak up the creamy sauce, offering a nutritious twist. -
Gluten-Free: Swap traditional pasta for gluten-free penne or chickpea pasta to suit dietary needs while maintaining deliciousness.
You’ll hardly notice the difference when it’s coated with the creamy tomato sauce! -
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a zesty twist that ignites your taste buds.
This will elevate your pasta to a whole new level of flavor and excitement. -
Herb-Infused: Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano greatly enhance the depth of flavor in your cream sauce.
Experiment with a burst of fresh ingredients, allowing your pasta to shine in every bite! -
Cheese Lovers Delight: Mix in different cheese varieties like Fontina or a sharp aged cheddar for a unique flavor profile.
Who can resist the allure of a cheesy pasta dish that elevates comfort food to gourmet status? -
Creamy Mushroom: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the garlic for a deeply umami-rich sauce that satisfies every craving.
The mushrooms create a luxurious texture, adding earthiness that complements the chicken perfectly. -
Citrus Zest: Brighten up the dish with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of zest right before serving.
The citrus adds a refreshing lift, making each bite feel lighter and more summery, no matter the season!
Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe FAQs
What type of pasta is best for this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?
Absolutely! For the best sauce adhesion, I recommend using pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni. These shapes hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
How should I store leftover Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?
Store your delicious leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat on low heat, adding a splash of cream to bring back that luscious texture we all love.
Can I freeze Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Mozzarella Pasta! First, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to freezer-safe containers, where it can last up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream for creaminess.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If you find that your sauce has thickened more than you’d like, the solution is simple! Just add a splash of the pasta cooking water while stirring until you reach your desired consistency. This can enhance the flavor while maintaining that lovely creamy texture.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! If you’re cooking for someone with dairy allergies, consider using lactose-free cream and cheese alternatives that mimic the creaminess of mozzarella. For a gluten-free option, substitute traditional pasta with gluten-free varieties found at most grocery stores.
How do I know if my chicken is cooked properly?
Ensure your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). It should be golden brown on the outside and juicy on the inside. To check, you can use a meat thermometer or cut into a piece to verify there are no pink areas left.
Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe FAQs
Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Ready in 30 Minutes!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, which usually takes about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and dried herbs, then cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to let it burn!
- Create Sauce Base: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly for about 5 minutes.
- Add Cream: Next, stir in the heavy cream and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until your sauce is beautifully creamy.
- Combine Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing it thoroughly with the creamy tomato sauce.
- Merge Pasta: Gently add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
- Add Cheeses: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the mixture. Stir occasionally until the cheeses are melted and creamy.
- Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, if desired.
- Serve and Enjoy: Dish out your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta while it’s hot, and savor the delightful cheesy goodness!