Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe

Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy mozzarella cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta, all tossed in a rich, savory sauce. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, this recipe delivers an indulgent meal that will impress everyone at the table.

In this guide, you’ll find a step-by-step breakdown of how to create a perfect Chicken Mozzarella Pasta, along with tips, variations, and more!

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

1. Rich and Cheesy: Melted mozzarella gives this dish its creamy, gooey texture that pairs beautifully with the pasta.
2. Customizable: Easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences by adding vegetables or switching up the pasta type.
3. Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, making it perfect for busy evenings.
4. Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike, this dish is a guaranteed hit.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken
   • In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • Ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the seasonings.
2. Cook the Chicken
   • Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the seasoned chicken.
   • Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
   • Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the Water
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the Pasta
   • Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
   • Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. Toss with Olive Oil
   • Toss the drained pasta with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Sauté Garlic
   • In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add the Liquids
   • Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
3. Incorporate the Seasonings
   • Stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).
   • Let the sauce simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until it begins to thicken.
4. Melt the Mozzarella
   • Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded mozzarella until it melts smoothly into the sauce.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the Chicken
   • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
2. Mix in the Pasta
   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring to ensure every piece is coated in the creamy sauce.
3. Adjust Consistency
   • If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 5: Optional Add-Ins

1. Tomatoes and Spinach
   • If using, stir in cherry tomatoes and spinach. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts slightly.
2. Fresh Basil
   • Garnish with freshly chopped basil for a burst of flavor and color.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Plate the Dish
   • Divide the pasta among plates or serve family-style in a large bowl.
2. Garnish
   • Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese and a few basil leaves.
3. Serve Hot
   • Enjoy immediately while the cheese is melty and the sauce is creamy.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Mozzarella
   • Freshly shredded mozzarella melts more evenly and gives the sauce a smoother texture.
2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken
   • Cook just until done to keep it tender and juicy.
3. Reserve Pasta Water
   • This starchy water is perfect for thinning the sauce without losing flavor.
4. Balance the Flavors
   • Taste the sauce before serving and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional Parmesan.

Variations

1. Protein Options
   • Swap chicken with shrimp, turkey, or tofu for a different twist.
2. Vegetarian Version
   • Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
3. Spicy Kick
   • Increase the red pepper flakes for a spicier dish.
4. Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta
   • Use alternative pasta options to suit your dietary needs.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce.

Pairing Suggestions

1. Side Dishes
   • Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables complement this dish perfectly.
2. Beverages
   • Pair with white wine like Chardonnay, sparkling water with lemon, or iced tea.
3. Desserts
   • Finish the meal with a light dessert like lemon sorbet or panna cotta.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   • Yes! Prepare the components separately and combine them when ready to serve.
2. What pasta works best for this recipe?
   • Short pastas like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work well to catch the creamy sauce.
3. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
   • Yes, but the sauce may be slightly less rich.

Conclusion

This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta recipe is a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that combines comfort and elegance in every bite. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta come together to create a meal that’s both satisfying and unforgettable.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy every cheesy, creamy, delicious bite!

Yield: 4

Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe

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Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy mozzarella cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta, all tossed in a rich, savory sauce. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, this recipe delivers an indulgent meal that will impress everyone at the table.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Chicken:
• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• For the Pasta and Sauce:
• 12 oz (340g) penne or your favorite pasta
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente.
   Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
   
2. Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
   Toss the chicken pieces with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
   Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and golden brown.
   Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
   
3. Step 3: Make the Sauce
   Reduce the skillet heat to medium and add the butter.
   Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
   Stir in the heavy cream and marinara sauce, mixing well to combine.
   Gradually add the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
   Season the sauce with red pepper flakes (if using) and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
   
4. Step 4: Combine Everything
   Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly.
   If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
   
5. Step 5: Serve
   Transfer the pasta to serving bowls or plates.
   Garnish with fresh basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
   Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

• Customize Your Sauce: Swap marinara for a tomato-basil sauce or add sun-dried tomatoes for a flavor boost.
• Protein Options: Substitute chicken with shrimp or sausage for variety.
• Vegetable Additions: Toss in spinach or roasted red peppers for added texture and color.