There’s a certain joy that fills the kitchen when the promise of a delicious meal lingers in the air. Picture this: a pan sizzling with tender chicken, the aroma of garlic mingling with rich tomatoes, and that cheese—oh, that gooey mozzarella melting into a creamy sauce. For busy weeknights when I crave something comforting yet delightful, Chicken Mozzarella Pasta never disappoints!
In just 30 minutes, I whip up this dish that brings a cheesy explosion of flavor right to the dinner table. It’s become my go-to recipe for impressing guests or simply treating myself after a long day. You’ll love how easily this creamy comfort food transforms a mundane meal into something truly special. Are you ready to experience a bowl of warmth and satisfaction? Let’s dive into this wonderful recipe—it’s simplicity at its best!
Why is Chicken Mozzarella Pasta a Must-Try?
Creamy Comfort: This dish is all about indulgent flavors that warm your soul after a long day.
Quick to Prepare: In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a delicious meal, even on the busiest weeknights.
Beginner-Friendly: Perfect for novice chefs, it requires minimal skills while delivering maximum satisfaction.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to substitute with seasonal veggies or different cheese varieties for a fun twist!
Crowd-Pleaser: Watch your family and friends rave about this dish, which is sure to impress with every bite.
With its rich taste and ease of preparation, you can also check out more delightful dinner ideas like Vegetarian Mushroom Pasta for a fresh take!
Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Pasta – 300 g of penne or your choice of pasta for a hearty base that holds the sauce beautifully.
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breast – 300 g, cut into bite-sized pieces for juicy bites that soak in the creamy sauce.
• Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons, used for sautéing chicken and adding a rich depth of flavor.
For the Sauce
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced to bring an aromatic bliss that elevates the dish.
• Dried Italian Herbs – 1 teaspoon for a hint of herbal beauty that complements all the flavors.
• Crushed Tomatoes – 1 can (400g) to create a tangy, delicious base for the sauce.
• Heavy Cream – 1/2 cup to ensure that dreamy creaminess that makes this dish comforting and indulgent.
For Seasoning
• Salt and Pepper – To taste, essential for enhancing the flavors throughout the recipe.
For the Cheesy Finish
• Mozzarella Cheese – 1 cup, shredded for that gooey, melty goodness that you’ll love.
• Parmesan Cheese – 1/2 cup, grated for an extra layer of sharpness and creaminess in every bite.
For Garnish
• Fresh Basil Leaves – A handful to brighten your dish with a fresh, aromatic touch.
• Optional: Red Pepper Flakes – For a kick of heat if you like your pasta with a little spice.
This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, promising a quick and satisfying dinner experience!
How to Make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
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Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add 300 g of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 10–12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
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Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 300 g of bite-sized chicken pieces; season with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs. Cook until golden brown, about 5–7 minutes. Set the chicken aside.
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Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute or until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown, as this can lead to bitterness.
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Make the Sauce: Pour in 1 can (400g) of crushed tomatoes into the skillet. Bring it to a simmer and let it meld for about 5 minutes, developing that rich tomato flavor.
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Add the Cream: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and continue to simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes or until the sauce turns creamy and luscious.
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Reintroduce the Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing it well to coat with the creamy sauce.
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Combine with Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to ensure every piece is beautifully coated in the creamy sauce.
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Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan over the pasta. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the mixture is creamy.
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Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves and, if desired, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra warmth. Serve hot!
Optional: For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle a touch of olive oil before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?
Imagine a comforting dinner table brimming with delightful pairings that elevate your creamy creation into a full feast.
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Garlic Bread: Perfectly crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, this classic staple is a wonderful companion for sopping up that luscious sauce.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons create a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta, ensuring a balanced meal.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies adds a hint of sweetness and caramelized goodness, giving a nutritious and colorful touch to your dinner.
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Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes and basil brings brightness and an appetizing crunch, making it a delightful start to your meal.
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Steamed Asparagus: Tender and lightly seasoned, asparagus provides a lovely green element that complements the creamy pasta beautifully with its subtle flavors.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, this warm and comforting treat combines sweet and tart flavors with a crumbly topping, rounding out your meal perfectly after the savory indulgence.
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Red Wine: A glass of Chianti or Pinot Noir enhances the flavors in your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta, enriching the dining experience while adding a touch of sophistication.
Each of these pairings brings its own unique flavor and texture, creating a harmonious and memorable meal that everyone will love!
Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Variations
Take a moment to let your imagination run wild with delightful twists to this recipe, enhancing flavors and personalizing your dish!
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Cheesy Twist: Add extra cheese like fontina or gouda for a different melt-in-your-mouth experience. The combination of flavors will elevate every bite.
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Vegetarian Delight: Omit the chicken and replace with sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a colorful and hearty vegetarian option. This option is perfect for a lighter meal full of fresh, seasonal veggies.
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Whole Grain Goodness: Swap regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free varieties for a health-conscious approach that still delivers on flavor.
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Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can replace dried herbs for a bright, aromatic flavor. Sprinkle them in just before serving for that fresh touch.
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Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce. This will create a zesty contrast to the creamy texture.
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Nutty Flavor: Incorporate toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an additional layer of texture and a delightful crunch that pairs wonderfully with pasta.
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Creamy Alternative: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter version that still keeps the dish creamy and rich. It’s the perfect balance without compromising on taste!
Let these variations inspire you to create your own signature version of Chicken Mozzarella Pasta—your culinary adventure awaits!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Chicken Mozzarella Pasta in advance is a smart strategy for busy weeknights! You can cook the pasta and chicken up to 24 hours ahead; just slightly undercook the pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy when reheated. Store the cooked components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, refrigerate the sauce with the chicken and stir in the cream just before serving for a fresh touch. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply reheat the pasta and sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream to keep it creamy and delicious. In just minutes, you’ll have a comforting dish ready to delight your family or guests!
Expert Tips for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
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Sauté Garlic Correctly: Sauté garlic just until fragrant to prevent bitterness that can spoil the dish’s lovely flavor.
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Al Dente is Key: Ensure your pasta is slightly undercooked (al dente) before combining. This helps it absorb the sauce beautifully.
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Taste as You Go: Always adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste. This ensures your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta has the perfect flavor balance.
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Storage Savvy: If making ahead, slightly undercook the pasta and add a splash of cream when reheating to avoid dryness and keep it creamy.
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Cheese Variation: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like fontina or gouda, adding your personal twist to the Chicken Mozzarella Pasta.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
Fridge: Store Chicken Mozzarella Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh while preserving the creamy texture and flavors.
Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. For best results, consider slightly undercooking the pasta to prevent mushiness upon reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth. This will revive the sauce and maintain creaminess in your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta.
Leftovers: If omitting cheese from leftovers, you may add it fresh when reheating. This will achieve that gooey meltiness you desire.
Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe FAQs
What type of pasta works best for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?
Absolutely, penne is ideal as its tubular shape holds onto the sauce beautifully! However, you can also use fusilli, rigatoni, or even farfalle based on your taste preference.
How do I store Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?
Very! To keep your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled down first to avoid condensation inside the container.
Can I freeze Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?
Indeed! You can freeze Chicken Mozzarella Pasta for up to 2 months. To maintain the best texture, slightly undercook the pasta, allow it to cool completely, then place it in a sealed container.
How do I rehearse leftover Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?
For perfect reheating, warm it gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a splash of cream or chicken broth to the skillet and stir frequently. This keeps the sauce creamy and prevents the pasta from drying out, taking about 5–10 minutes to warm through.
Are there any dietary considerations for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with lactose intolerance, you might consider dairy alternatives for the cream and cheese. For those avoiding gluten, opt for gluten-free pasta. Always ensure that any additional ingredients align with dietary preferences or restrictions.
How can I tell if my chicken is cooked properly?
To avoid any issues, ensure your chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The pieces should be golden brown on the outside and no longer pink in the center. If you’re unsure, use a meat thermometer for accurate readings!
Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta: Comfort in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add 300 g of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 10–12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 300 g of bite-sized chicken pieces; season with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs. Cook until golden brown, about 5–7 minutes. Set the chicken aside.
- In the same skillet, add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute or until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown.
- Pour in 1 can (400g) of crushed tomatoes into the skillet. Bring it to a simmer and let it meld for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and continue to simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes or until the sauce turns creamy.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing it well to coat with the creamy sauce.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to ensure every piece is coated in the creamy sauce.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan over the pasta. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the mixture is creamy.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves and, if desired, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.