Easy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta – Comfort Food Made Simple

Indulging in a comforting, creamy pasta dish is one of life’s simple pleasures, and Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is here to deliver that satisfaction in every delicious bite. Imagine tender, juicy chicken paired with perfectly cooked penne pasta, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce that’s bursting with flavor. This recipe not only promises to tantalize your taste buds but also offers an easy-to-follow guide that will have you serving up this delightful dish in no time. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is the epitome of a quick yet decadent meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a special occasion. Its creamy texture, combined with the freshness of basil and the richness of mozzarella, creates a delightful experience that feels indulgent without being overly complicated. Plus, it’s versatile! You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand, making it a great go-to recipe for any pasta lover.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests, need a cozy family meal, or simply want to treat yourself, this dish has you covered. It’s a wonderful way to showcase your cooking skills while keeping things stress-free in the kitchen. And the best part? It only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the cooking, let’s gather all the ingredients needed for this delectable Chicken Mozzarella Pasta. These ingredients are simple, easy to find, and likely already in your pantry:

Main Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The star of the dish, providing protein and flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning the chicken and the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For cooking the chicken and adding richness to the sauce.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – A must-have for that aromatic flavor.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – For a kick of heat; adjust according to your spice preference.

For the Sauce and Pasta

• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes – Adds acidity and depth to the sauce.
• 1 cup heavy cream – This is what makes the sauce rich and creamy.
• 1 cup chicken broth – Adds flavor and helps to create the sauce’s base.
• 8 ounces penne pasta – The perfect shape to hold onto that creamy sauce.

Cheesy Goodness

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Adds that gooey, melty goodness everyone loves.
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – For a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the dish.

Fresh Herbs

• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil) – Freshness is key in this recipe!
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish) – Adds color and a touch of flavor.

Directions: How to Make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Now that we have everything we need, let’s walk through the steps to create this wonderful dish. Follow along, and you’ll have a plate of Chicken Mozzarella Pasta ready to impress in no time!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

First things first, we need to get that pasta going. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the 8 ounces of penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Make sure to toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, it’s time to focus on the chicken. Take your 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts and season them generously with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning will enhance the flavor of the chicken beautifully.

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are cooked through and golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add the minced 3 cloves of garlic. If you’re feeling adventurous and want a little heat, sprinkle in the ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Cream

Now it’s time to build that creamy sauce! Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (including the juices), 1 cup of heavy cream, and 1 cup of chicken broth. Stir everything together, allowing the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes. This will help to meld the flavors together and create a deliciously creamy sauce.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese

Once your sauce has simmered, it’s time to incorporate the pasta. Add the drained penne pasta, along with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well until the cheeses melt and the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. The combination of these cheeses will create a rich, cheesy goodness that’s hard to resist.

Step 6: Add Chicken and Basil

Now, return the sliced chicken to the skillet and toss everything to combine. This step allows the flavors to marry beautifully. Stir in the chopped ¼ cup of fresh basil (or 1 teaspoon of dried basil) and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper to taste. Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor that complements the dish perfectly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is almost ready to serve! Dish it out onto plates and garnish with 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot and watch everyone enjoy this comforting, cheesy pasta dish!

Nutritional Information

For those keeping an eye on their nutritional intake, here’s a quick breakdown of the approximate calories and macros for this scrumptious meal:

• Calories: 550 kcal per serving
• Fat: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 30g

Serving Size

This recipe serves 4 servings, making it perfect for a family meal or leftovers for lunch the next day.

Tips for the Best Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

To ensure your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta turns out perfect every time, consider these handy tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and quality chicken will elevate the dish immensely. Whenever possible, opt for fresh herbs over dried for a more vibrant flavor.
• Customize with Veggies: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the dish! Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms would all make excellent additions and boost the nutrition.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, you can omit the red pepper flakes. Alternatively, if you love heat, feel free to double the amount or add fresh chili.
• Pasta Alternatives: While penne works beautifully, you can use any pasta shape you have on hand, like fusilli, rigatoni, or even spaghetti!

Storage and Reheating

If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely because it’s so good!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up.

Freezing Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

For longer storage, you can freeze the Chicken Mozzarella Pasta. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and combine them with the pasta when you’re ready to serve. This is a great option for meal prepping or hosting guests.

Can I use different cheese?

Yes, you can substitute the mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar or fontina. Just remember that the flavor and creaminess will vary based on your cheese choice.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely! The creamy, cheesy pasta is usually a hit with kids, and you can easily adjust the spice levels to suit their taste.

Can I add protein options?

Of course! You can replace the chicken with shrimp or even turkey. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure it’s fully cooked.

What if I don’t have penne pasta?

No problem! Any pasta shape you have on hand will work. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as different shapes may cook differently.

Related Recipes to Try

If you love this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta, you might also enjoy these delicious recipes:

• Creamy Beef Pasta – A Hearty Comforting Dinner Idea
• Cheesy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta
• Marry Me Chicken Pasta – A Creamy Soulmate Dish

Conclusion

In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a plate of Chicken Mozzarella Pasta that’s creamy, cheesy, and downright delicious. This dish not only brings comfort and satisfaction but also allows for flexibility and creativity in the kitchen. Perfect for any occasion, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again. So, gather your ingredients, invite family or friends over, and enjoy this comforting dish together. Happy cooking!

Print