Quick Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe: A Cheesy Family Favorite

Creamy chicken mozzarella pasta brings comfort right to your kitchen with its irresistible blend of flavors.

Cheese melts perfectly over tender chicken pieces, creating a delightful symphony of taste.

Home cooks adore this simple yet elegant dish that comes together in under thirty minutes.

Rich and satisfying, each forkful promises a delectable experience that feels like a warm embrace.

Unexpected ingredients add depth to this classic combination, making it stand out from ordinary pasta recipes.

Weeknight dinners just got a serious upgrade with this crowd-pleasing meal that sparks excitement around the table.

You can definitely impress everyone without spending hours in the kitchen preparing this mouthwatering dish.

Why Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Gets All The Praise

• Creamy tomato sauce, tender chicken, and melted cheese create a mouthwatering combination that'll have everyone asking for seconds.
• Perfect for busy families seeking a delicious dinner that comes together quickly without sacrificing taste or nutrition.
• Satisfies both picky eaters and sophisticated palates with its rich, cheesy goodness and balanced flavors.

Ingredients In Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe

• Chicken Breasts: Tender and juicy protein for the pasta dish.
• Chicken Broth: Adds depth of flavor to the sauce.

• Penne Pasta: Classic pasta shape for holding sauce.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Creamy and melty cheese for richness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Sharp cheese for extra flavor.

• Olive Oil, Garlic: Base for creating aromatic sauce.
• Diced Tomatoes: Adds moisture and tangy flavor.
• Heavy Cream: Creates smooth and rich sauce texture.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Basic seasoning for chicken and dish.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional spicy kick for heat lovers.
• Fresh Basil, Fresh Parsley: Bright herbs for garnish and freshness.

How To Cook Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Easily

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Cook penne pasta in salted water until it reaches the perfect al dente texture.

Drain and set the pasta aside, ready for its flavor transformation.

Step 2: Sizzle the Chicken

Sprinkle chicken breasts with a generous pinch of salt and pepper.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Gently place chicken breasts into the hot pan and cook until golden brown and completely cooked through.

Let the chicken rest briefly before slicing into delectable strips.

Step 3: Create the Dreamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add another splash of olive oil and toss in minced garlic.

Let it dance and release its aromatic magic for about a minute.

Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a hint of excitement.

• Diced tomatoes
• Heavy cream
• Chicken broth

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it bubble and thicken for 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Marry the Pasta and Chicken

Introduce the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the sauce.

Stir everything together, ensuring each piece gets a loving coat of the creamy mixture.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheese

• Shredded mozzarella
• Grated Parmesan

Stir until the cheese melts into a luxurious blanket.

Fold in fresh chopped basil for a burst of herbaceous flavor.

Step 6: Plate and Serve

Transfer the pasta to serving plates.

Garnish with extra basil and parsley if desired.

Serve immediately while the cheese is still gloriously melted and the pasta is steaming hot.

Pro Cooking Tips For Mozzarella Chicken Pasta

• Cut chicken against the grain into thin, even strips to ensure tender and consistent texture throughout the dish.
• Select high-quality, fresh mozzarella for a creamier and more authentic flavor that melts smoothly into the sauce.
• Simmer the sauce gently to help it thicken naturally, adjusting liquid quantities if needed to prevent watery or overly thick results.
• Use fresh basil and parsley right before serving to add bright, aromatic notes that elevate the overall taste of the pasta.
• Cook pasta al dente and drain immediately to maintain a firm texture that won't become mushy when mixed with the sauce.

Save And Warm Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Smartly

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Cool pasta completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Transfer cooled pasta to freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags. Keep frozen for up to 2 months. Separate sauce and chicken to maintain texture.
• Place pasta in microwave-safe dish. Add splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying. Cover and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warmed.
• Warm pasta in skillet over medium-low heat. Add small amount of chicken broth or cream to restore moisture. Stir gently and frequently to prevent sticking, heating until steaming hot throughout.

What To Pair With Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

• Perfectly Paired Wine Selection: Choose a crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the creamy tomato sauce and cut through the rich cheese flavors, enhancing the chicken's delicate taste.
• Elevate Cheese Course: Serve a small side of aged Parmesan or pecorino romano cheese on a wooden board to provide a sharp, salty contrast that intensifies the pasta's complex flavors.
• Brighten with Fresh Salad: Create a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette and toasted pine nuts to add a zesty, peppery element that balances the pasta's creamy and rich profile.
• Herbal Garnish Boost: Sprinkle fresh basil and parsley not just as a garnish, but as a vibrant flavor enhancer that adds a bright, aromatic dimension to the entire dish.

Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe Swaps To Consider

• Low-Carb Zucchini Noodle Version: Replace penne pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles for a keto-friendly and gluten-free alternative. Use the same sauce and chicken preparation method for a lighter, vegetable-based dish.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Substitute mozzarella and Parmesan with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternatives. Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream to maintain a creamy texture while accommodating lactose-intolerant diets.
• Vegetarian Protein Swap: Replace chicken with plant-based protein like grilled tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas. Keep the sauce and cheese components the same for a meatless version that still offers rich flavor and protein.
• Spicy Mediterranean Remix: Add kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and swap basil for oregano to give the dish a Greek-inspired flavor profile. Include extra red pepper flakes for those who enjoy more heat.

FAQs

• Is the recipe spicy?

The recipe includes optional red pepper flakes, which can add a mild heat. You can adjust the amount or skip them entirely for a non-spicy version.

• Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While the recipe uses penne, you can substitute with other short pasta shapes like rigatoni, ziti, or fusilli that hold sauce well.

• What if I don't have fresh basil?

Dried basil can work as a substitute, though fresh provides the best flavor. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh basil called for in the recipe.

• How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) or when there’s no pink in the center and the juices run clear.

Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe

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4.6 from 37 reviews

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

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Description

Creamy chicken mozzarella pasta delivers Italian comfort straight to your dinner table. Rich melted cheese and tender chicken create a satisfying meal that brings family and friends together for an irresistible culinary experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 2 boneless (skinless) chicken breasts
• 1 cup chicken broth

Dairy and Cheese:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Other Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) penne pasta
• 1 can (14.5 ounces or 411 grams) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Boil the penne pasta in salted water at medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes until perfectly al dente. Drain and reserve.
2. Season chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high temperature and sear chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer chicken to cutting board and slice into thin strips.
3. In the identical skillet, sauté minced garlic for 45-60 seconds until aromatic. Sprinkle red pepper flakes and cook for additional 30 seconds to release their spicy essence.
4. Pour diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and chicken broth into the skillet. Simmer sauce for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly thickened and ingredients meld together.
5. Introduce cooked pasta and sliced chicken into the sauce. Gently toss to ensure complete coating and flavor integration.
6. Reduce heat and gradually incorporate mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smoothly melted and creating a creamy consistency.
7. Fold in fresh chopped basil for a vibrant herbal note. Remove from heat and garnish with additional herbs if desired.
8. Plate immediately while sauce remains warm and cheese is perfectly melted. Serve with extra grated Parmesan on side for enhanced flavor.

Notes

• Slice chicken against the grain for maximum tenderness and easier chewing.
• Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier, more luxurious sauce texture that melts beautifully.
• Adjust red pepper flakes based on personal spice tolerance, starting with a small amount and increasing gradually.
• Consider low-fat alternatives like Greek yogurt or half-and-half to reduce overall calorie content without compromising flavor.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 660
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 36 g
• Saturated Fat: 14 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 22 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 56 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 150 mg