Sizzling Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe: A Cheesy Family Favorite

Creamy chicken mozzarella pasta brings comfort straight to your dinner table with an irresistible blend of flavors.

Weeknight meals demand simple yet delectable solutions that satisfy hunger and delight taste buds.

Melted cheese cascades over tender chicken pieces, creating a luscious coating that hugs each pasta strand.

Mediterranean influences shine through with fragrant herbs and subtle garlic undertones.

Parmesan and fresh basil add depth to this classic Italian-inspired dish.

Home cooks appreciate recipes that require minimal ingredients but deliver maximum satisfaction.

Grab a fork and savor every rich, cheesy bite waiting to transport you to culinary bliss.

Distinct Features of Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

• Savor Quick Comfort: This chicken mozzarella pasta delivers a satisfying meal that comes together faster than ordering takeout, perfect for busy weeknights when hunger strikes.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor Fusion: The combination of tender chicken, creamy mozzarella, and tangy tomatoes creates a universally loved dish that appeals to both kids and adults.
• Minimal Ingredient Magic: With just a handful of simple ingredients, home cooks can transform basic pantry staples into a restaurant-worthy meal that feels gourmet yet approachable.
• One-Pan Wonder: Streamline your cooking process with this single-skillet recipe that minimizes cleanup and maximizes flavor, making meal preparation a breeze for home chefs of all skill levels.

Ingredients for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

• Chicken: A tender and juicy protein that adds substantial flavor to the pasta dish.

• Pasta: The foundation of the recipe that provides a satisfying and filling element.

• Mozzarella, Heavy Cream: Creamy ingredients that create a rich and smooth sauce for the pasta.

• Olive Oil, Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that help develop depth and balance in the dish.

• Garlic, Diced Tomatoes: Ingredients that add vibrant flavor and moisture to the pasta.

• Fresh Basil: A bright and fragrant herb that provides a fresh finishing touch to the dish.

Step-by-Step Guide for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Step 1: Boil Pasta

Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted water until it reaches al dente perfection. Once done, drain thoroughly and set aside, keeping it warm and ready for the delicious sauce.

Step 2: Sear Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and sprinkle with salt and black pepper.

Cook the chicken until it develops a beautiful golden-brown crust and is completely cooked through, ensuring no pink remains.

Step 3: Awaken the Garlic

Toss minced garlic into the skillet with the cooked chicken.

Stir and cook for about 60 seconds until the garlic becomes wonderfully aromatic and releases its incredible flavor.

Step 4: Create Tomato Base

Add diced tomatoes to the skillet.

Let the mixture simmer gently for 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and blend with the chicken and garlic.

Step 5: Introduce Creamy Goodness

Pour heavy cream into the skillet.

Continue simmering for 3 minutes, watching the sauce transform into a rich, velvety mixture that will coat every pasta strand perfectly.

Step 6: Combine and Melt

Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet.

Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top and gently stir until the cheese melts completely, creating a luscious, creamy coating.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Transfer the pasta to serving plates.

Garnish with fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped, to add a bright, herbal finish to this mouthwatering dish. Serve immediately while hot and irresistibly creamy.

Tips for Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

• Opt for chicken breasts pounded to even thickness to ensure uniform cooking and prevent dry spots. Choose fresh mozzarella for a creamier, richer texture that melts more smoothly into the sauce. Experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme to add depth and customize the flavor profile. Keep pasta slightly undercooked before adding to the skillet, as it will continue absorbing sauce and cooking. For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt to reduce calories without sacrificing taste.

Flavor Twists on Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

• Vegetarian Pasta Swap: Replace chicken with roasted portobello mushrooms or plant-based protein crumbles for a meat-free version.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and substitute mozzarella with dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast.
• Spicy Mediterranean Version: Add red pepper flakes, oregano, and swap regular tomatoes with sun-dried tomatoes for an intense flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining the creamy chicken sauce essence.

Suggested Sides for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

• Cozy Family Dinner Night: Gather everyone around the table and serve this comforting pasta dish with warm garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a complete meal that feels like a warm hug.
• Romantic Italian-Inspired Meal: Create an intimate dinner experience by pairing the chicken mozzarella pasta with a glass of chilled white wine, soft candlelight, and a side of roasted vegetables for an elegant touch.
• Meal Prep Champion: Portion the pasta into individual containers for quick lunches during the week. The dish reheats beautifully and maintains its creamy texture, making it perfect for busy professionals looking for delicious make-ahead meals.
• Picnic Perfect Potential: Pack this pasta in a cooler for an outdoor adventure, serving it at room temperature as a delightful cold pasta salad that's packed with flavor and protein.

FAQs

• Is this recipe spicy?

No, the recipe is mild and focuses on creamy, cheesy flavors without adding any hot spices. You can customize heat levels by adding red pepper flakes if desired.

• Can I use different cheese instead of mozzarella?

Yes, you can substitute with provolone, white cheddar, or fontina cheese for similar creamy textures and melting properties.

• What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken tenderloins are ideal because they cook quickly and absorb seasonings well. Ensure chicken is cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

• How can I make this dish healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta, reduce cream quantity, add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini, and choose low-fat mozzarella to create a lighter version of the recipe.

Quick Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe

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4.9 from 18 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy chicken mozzarella pasta delivers Italian-inspired comfort with tender chicken and melted cheese. Rich flavors and easy preparation make this dish perfect for weeknight dinners you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, cubed
• 8 ounces (226 grams) pasta (penne or rotini)
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 can (14.5 ounces / 411 grams) diced tomatoes

Sauce and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) heavy cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish:

• Fresh basil

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Instructions

1. Prepare the pasta according to package guidelines, ensuring al dente texture. Drain thoroughly and reserve.
2. Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, creating a sizzling surface for the chicken.
3. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then carefully place in the hot skillet. Cook until golden brown and completely cooked through, approximately 6-7 minutes per side.
4. Introduce minced garlic to the skillet, allowing it to release its aromatic essence for 30-45 seconds without burning.
5. Gently fold in diced tomatoes, reducing heat to medium-low. Let the mixture simmer and meld flavors for 4-5 minutes, creating a rich sauce base.
6. Stream heavy cream into the skillet, stirring continuously. Allow the sauce to bubble gently and thicken for 2-3 minutes.
7. Incorporate the cooked pasta directly into the sauce, tossing to ensure even coating and temperature.
8. Sprinkle mozzarella throughout the skillet, gently stirring until the cheese melts completely and creates a creamy, luxurious texture.
9. Transfer to serving plates immediately, garnishing with fresh basil leaves for a vibrant, aromatic finish.

Notes

• Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts to ensure quick and even cooking without excess fat.
• Choose fresh mozzarella for a creamier, more luxurious texture that melts beautifully into the sauce.
• Adjust cream quantity for lighter versions by substituting half with chicken broth or Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative.
• Toast garlic briefly to prevent burning and release its rich, nutty flavor without bitter undertones.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 460 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 380 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 35 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg