Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Introduction

Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a rich and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy tomato-based sauce with gooey melted mozzarella. This dish is packed with flavor from garlic, Italian seasoning, and a hint of spice, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion.

I first made this dish on a cozy evening when I was craving something warm and filling, and it quickly became a go-to meal. The combination of creamy sauce and melted mozzarella is simply irresistible, and it pairs perfectly with the savory chicken and pasta. You can easily make it for a family dinner or prep it in advance for a week’s worth of delicious meals.

What’s great about this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is how customizable it is. You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor, or switch up the pasta shape to your liking. No matter how you make it, this dish is sure to please!

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Meal prepping
• Comfort food cravings
• Italian food lovers
• Family gatherings

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Here’s why Chicken Mozzarella Pasta will be your new go-to dinner:

• Creamy and Cheesy: The combination of melted mozzarella and a creamy tomato sauce makes every bite rich and satisfying.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Full of Flavor: Garlic, Italian seasoning, and a hint of spice add depth and balance to the dish.
• Customizable: You can easily switch up the pasta type, add vegetables, or use different proteins.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this cheesy, comforting pasta dish.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 500-600 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 50g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into bite-sized pieces)
• 12 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup marinara or tomato sauce
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken: Sliced chicken breast cooks quickly and stays juicy in the creamy sauce.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Provides a melty, stretchy texture that makes the dish extra indulgent.
• Pasta: Any short pasta like penne or rotini works well, holding onto the sauce for maximum flavor.
• Heavy Cream: Adds a luxurious creaminess to balance the acidity of the tomato sauce.
• Garlic and Italian Seasoning: Essential for building deep, aromatic flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta:

Cook the Pasta and Chicken

1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

3. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, then sauté the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the Sauce: Pour in the marinara sauce and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Combine and Serve

5. Add the Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Stir everything together to coat with the sauce.
6. Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and well combined. Let it cook for another minute until the cheese is gooey.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley, and serve hot.

How to Serve Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Chicken Mozzarella Pasta pairs well with simple sides to complete the meal:

• With Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crispy garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• With a Side Salad: A fresh green salad with balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus make a great addition.
• As a Pasta Bake: Transfer the cooked pasta to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil for a few minutes for a crispy, cheesy crust.

Additional Tips for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

• Use Fresh Mozzarella: For an extra creamy and melty texture, use fresh mozzarella instead of pre-shredded.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking it al dente ensures it holds up well in the sauce.
• Add More Protein: Try adding cooked shrimp or Italian sausage for a twist.
• Make it Lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you like more heat, increase the red pepper flakes.
• Store Leftovers Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Add vegetables: For extra nutrition and flavor, toss in some sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers.
• Grate fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a sharper flavor than pre-shredded varieties. It will enhance the overall dish.
• Let the dish rest: After assembling, let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together.
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Recipe Variations for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Here are 10 ways to switch up Chicken Mozzarella Pasta:

• Spicy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
• Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Pasta: Stir in crispy bacon bits for added crunch and smoky flavor.
• Mushroom Chicken Mozzarella Pasta: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy depth of flavor.
• Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta: Toss in chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist.
• Pesto Chicken Mozzarella Pasta: Mix in a spoonful of pesto for a fresh, herby flavor.
• One-Pot Chicken Mozzarella Pasta: Cook everything in one pan for easier cleanup.
• Spinach Chicken Mozzarella Pasta: Stir in fresh spinach at the end for extra greens.
• Creamy Alfredo Chicken Mozzarella Pasta: Swap marinara for Alfredo sauce for a rich, white sauce version.
• Gluten-Free Chicken Mozzarella Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free variation.
• Dairy-Free Chicken Mozzarella Pasta: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

Freezing and Storage for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

• Freezing: Let the pasta cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water or cream to revive the sauce.

Special Equipment for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Here are some tools that make preparing Chicken Mozzarella Pasta easier:

• Large Skillet: A deep skillet or sauté pan is ideal for cooking the chicken and sauce.
• Pasta Pot: A large pot for boiling pasta ensures even cooking.
• Garlic Press or Minced Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances the dish’s flavor.
• Cheese Grater: Grating your own cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
• Tongs or Wooden Spoon: Useful for stirring and tossing the pasta evenly in the sauce.
• Airtight Containers: For storing leftovers or meal prepping.
• Cutting Board – For chopping and preparing ingredients.
• Measuring Cups – To measure liquids like broth, cream, or sauce ingredients.
• Measuring Spoons – To measure spices and seasonings.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula – For stirring the sauce and pasta.
• Oven-safe Baking Dish – For finishing the dish in the oven if you’re baking the mozzarella on top.

Frequently Asked Questions for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
   Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works well. Just add it to the sauce at the end.
2. Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.
3. What’s the best pasta to use?
   Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini holds onto the sauce best.
4. Can I make this without cream?
   Yes, you can substitute milk or a dairy-free alternative, though the sauce will be less creamy.
5. How can I thicken the sauce?
   Simmer the sauce longer or add a little more Parmesan cheese to thicken it.

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Conclusion

Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors. Whether you’re making a quick dinner for the family or preparing a comforting meal for guests, this dish is simple yet impressive. With endless variations and easy prep, it’s bound to become a regular in your recipe rotation.

This recipe is as satisfying as it is easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. The combination of tender chicken, melted mozzarella, and creamy sauce will leave everyone asking for seconds.

I’d love to see how this recipe turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!