Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Tender chicken and gooey mozzarella mingle with a luscious tomato-cream sauce coating al dente pasta in this comforting Chicken Mozzarella Pasta dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe combines familiar flavors in a way that feels both indulgent and satisfying. In just 30 minutes, you can serve a delicious meal that will impress family and friends alike.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Pasta
• Chicken
• Seasonings & Aromatics
• Sauces
• Cheeses
• Garnish
• How to Make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
• Step 1: Cook the Pasta
• Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
• Step 3: Sauté Garlic
• Step 4: Add Seasonings
• Step 5: Create the Sauce
• Step 6: Combine Ingredients
• Step 7: Add Cheese
• Step 8: Garnish
• How to Serve Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
• On a Platter
• With Fresh Herbs
• In Individual Bowls
• Accompanied by Garlic Bread
• Paired with Salad
• How to Perfect Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
• Best Side Dishes for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
• Reheating Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use other types of pasta for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?
• How spicy is Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?
• Can I make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta ahead of time?
• What can I add to enhance my Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?
• Is Chicken Mozzarella Pasta suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Sauce: The creamy tomato sauce is rich and savory, elevating the taste of simple ingredients.
• Cheesy Goodness: Melted mozzarella and Parmesan add a delightful creaminess that everyone will love.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute different types of pasta or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required as everything cooks in one skillet, saving you time and effort.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes all the difference in creating this delicious Chicken Mozzarella Pasta effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta efficiently and ensuring even cooking.
• Large skillet: Perfect for sautéing chicken and mixing the creamy sauce without overcrowding.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Help ensure accurate ingredient portions for consistent results.

Ingredients

Pasta

• 8 oz. pasta (such as penne, fusilli, or your choice)

Chicken

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Seasonings & Aromatics

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Sauces

• 1 can (14.5 oz.) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

Cheeses

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish

• Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish

How to Make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook the pasta according to package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Add Seasonings

Add the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir to combine.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir well and bring to a simmer.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Once simmering, add cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together to coat with sauce evenly.

Step 7: Add Cheese

Stir in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well incorporated. Cook for an additional few minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 8: Garnish

Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your dinner rotation! Enjoy your creamy pasta creation!

How to Serve Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Serving Chicken Mozzarella Pasta can elevate your dining experience, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some creative ways to serve this comforting dish.

On a Platter

• Arrange the Chicken Mozzarella Pasta on a large platter for a family-style meal. This allows everyone to help themselves, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

With Fresh Herbs

• Top the pasta with freshly chopped basil or parsley. This adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor profile of the dish.

In Individual Bowls

• Serve portions in individual bowls for a more elegant presentation. Pair each bowl with a sprinkle of extra cheese on top for added indulgence.

Accompanied by Garlic Bread

• Serve with toasted garlic bread on the side. The crunchy texture complements the creamy pasta beautifully and is perfect for dipping.

Paired with Salad

• Add a side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. This balances the richness of the Chicken Mozzarella Pasta while adding freshness to the meal.

How to Perfect Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

To ensure your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs, high-quality chicken, and real mozzarella cheese greatly enhance flavor.
• Cook pasta al dente: This helps maintain texture in the dish and prevents mushiness when mixed with sauce.
• Season in layers: Flavor your chicken first, then build up taste with garlic and spices before adding liquids.
• Avoid overcooking cheese: Stir in mozzarella at the end to keep it gooey without becoming tough or rubbery.
• Adjust spice level: Feel free to modify red pepper flakes according to your heat preference; you can always add more later.
• Let it rest: After cooking, let your pasta sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps flavors meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Mozzarella Pasta can enhance your meal and provide a variety of flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that complements any pasta dish perfectly; serve it warm and crispy.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Parmesan and croutons adds crunch and freshness to balance the richness of the pasta.
3. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans provide color and nutrition; season simply with olive oil and salt.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast to your main dish.
5. Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus spears in olive oil and roast until tender; this side brings earthy flavors that complement creamy sauces.
6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables offers variety and is great for sharing before dinner.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa add another layer of flavor while being colorful on your plate.
8. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, spiralized zucchini lightly sautéed makes for an excellent alternative side that pairs well with sauces.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can make your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta even more delicious. Here are some common pitfalls:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long can result in a mushy texture. Follow package instructions carefully for al dente results.
• Burning the garlic: Garlic cooks quickly; burning it will create a bitter taste. Sauté it just until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
• Not letting cheese melt properly: Adding cheese too early or at too high a temperature can cause it to clump instead of melt smoothly. Stir it in at low heat until fully incorporated.
• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold cream or broth can lower the sauce’s temperature. Always allow them to come to room temperature first for better blending.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Mozzarella Pasta in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing the container.

Freezing Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

• Freeze portions of Chicken Mozzarella Pasta in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be stored for up to 2 months.
• Label each container with the date for tracking freshness.

Reheating Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth and stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Chicken Mozzarella Pasta:

Can I use other types of pasta for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?

Yes! While penne and fusilli work well, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti or rigatoni.

How spicy is Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?

The recipe includes optional red pepper flakes for heat. You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference or omit it altogether.

Can I make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and reheat it later. Just follow our storage instructions for best results.

What can I add to enhance my Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?

Consider adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. You could also include sun-dried tomatoes for a richer taste.

Is Chicken Mozzarella Pasta suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prepping as it stores well and reheats nicely, making it great for busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. With its creamy sauce and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or using different proteins. Try it today!