Are you ready to dive into the creamy, cheesy goodness of Chicken Mozzarella Pasta? This delightful dish combines tender chicken, gooey mozzarella, and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich, flavorful sauce. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about making this irresistible dish, along with helpful tips, substitutions, and serving ideas!
What is Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?
Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a classic Italian-inspired comfort dish that features tender pieces of chicken, melted mozzarella cheese, and al dente pasta, all smothered in a rich, savory sauce. The combination of textures and flavors makes this dish a favorite among pasta lovers, offering a perfect balance of protein, carbs, and cheesy indulgence. Whether you're an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a foolproof dish that will impress anyone who tries it.
Ingredients List for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to gather to make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta from scratch. These simple, pantry-friendly ingredients combine to create a satisfying dish that’s as easy as it is delicious:
- Chicken Breasts or Thighs: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or 4 boneless thighs, cubed
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1 ½ cups shredded or fresh mozzarella balls
- Pasta: 12 ounces of your favorite pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle work well)
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for cooking the chicken
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Onion: 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- Crushed Tomatoes: 1 (15-ounce) can or fresh diced tomatoes
- Heavy Cream: ½ cup for creaminess
- Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup grated for extra richness
- Basil: Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about ¼ cup), or 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, for a little kick
Ingredients List for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Sauce
The sauce is the star of this dish! Here's what you need to create a smooth, flavorful, and perfectly balanced sauce that ties everything together:
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Butter: 2 tablespoons, to enrich the sauce
- Garlic: 3 cloves, finely minced
- Crushed Tomatoes: 1 (15-ounce) can or fresh, diced tomatoes (as mentioned above)
- Heavy Cream: ½ cup
- Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup, finely grated
- Basil: Fresh basil leaves for garnish, or dried basil for flavor
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
Substitutions and Variations
You can easily tailor this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some substitutions and variations to consider:
- Pasta Variations: Swap traditional pasta with whole wheat, gluten-free, or vegetable-based pasta like zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a healthier alternative.
- Protein Substitutions: Substitute chicken with turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. For a meatier option, add some Italian sausage to the mix.
- Mozzarella Alternatives: If you don't have mozzarella on hand, you can use other meltable cheeses like provolone, gouda, or fontina.
- Sauce Variations: For a spicier sauce, add more red pepper flakes or use a spicy marinara sauce. You can also lighten the dish by replacing the heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s dive into how to prepare this delicious Chicken Mozzarella Pasta from start to finish. Follow these easy steps to ensure perfect results every time:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil.
- Add your chosen pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, but reserve ½ cup of the pasta water for later use.
- Set the cooked pasta aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the cubed chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring the sauce to a simmer.
- Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to coat the chicken in the sauce.
- Stir in the reserved pasta water and mix well until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Toss in the cooked pasta and combine until the pasta is well coated with sauce.
Step 5: Add Mozzarella and Finish
- Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the pasta.
- Stir gently until the mozzarella is melted and gooey.
- Add fresh basil and red pepper flakes (if using) for extra flavor.
How to Cook Chicken Mozzarella Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a straightforward process, but here are a few more detailed steps to make sure everything goes smoothly:
- Timing Is Key: Start boiling the water for the pasta as soon as you begin preparing the ingredients. This way, your pasta will finish cooking around the same time as the sauce and chicken.
- Browning the Chicken: When cooking the chicken, ensure you give it enough time to brown properly. This adds depth to the flavor and helps seal in the juices, keeping the chicken tender.
- Melting the Mozzarella: Once you add the mozzarella cheese, stir gently. You want the cheese to melt just enough to create a stringy, gooey texture without overcooking it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Make sure to cook your pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when you combine it with the sauce.
- Dry Chicken: Avoid overcooking the chicken, as it can become dry. Cook just until it's no longer pink in the center and remove it from the pan.
- Watery Sauce: Don’t skip draining the pasta well after cooking. Excess water can dilute your sauce. If your sauce does become too thin, let it simmer for a bit to thicken up.
Serving and Presentation Tips
To make your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta stand out, presentation is key. Here are a few tips:
- Use Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top of the pasta for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Drizzle of Olive Oil: A light drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil before serving can elevate the dish.
- Garnish with Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan over the top of the dish adds a touch of sophistication and flavor.
How to Serve Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
Serve Chicken Mozzarella Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A crisp Caesar salad or some roasted vegetables, like zucchini or asparagus, would pair beautifully with the richness of the pasta.
Presentation Ideas for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
- Layered Presentation: Serve the pasta in individual bowls and top with extra mozzarella or Parmesan.
- Baked Version: For an extra cheesy version, transfer the cooked pasta to a baking dish, top with more mozzarella, and bake until bubbly and golden.
- Family-Style: Place the entire dish in a large serving bowl and let everyone dig in at the table.
Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe Tips
- Don’t Skimp on the Cheese: Mozzarella is the star of the show here, so use high-quality cheese for the best results.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley will enhance the overall flavor.
- Pasta Water: Always reserve some pasta water to add to the sauce. It helps to loosen the sauce and bind it to the pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the dish ahead of time, but it's best to reheat it gently over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken and overcooking the pasta.
2. Can I freeze Chicken Mozzarella Pasta? Absolutely! To freeze, transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
3. What other cheese can I use instead of mozzarella? You can substitute mozzarella with provolone, gouda, or fontina for a slightly different flavor.
Conclusion
Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is the ultimate comfort dish that's perfect for any occasion. With its combination of tender chicken, gooey mozzarella, and savory tomato sauce, this recipe is bound to become a household favorite. By following the step-by-step guide, avoiding common mistakes, and exploring variations, you'll be able to customize and perfect this delicious meal to your liking. Ready to impress your family or guests with this mouthwatering dish? Go ahead, gather your ingredients, and start cooking!
PrintChicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe
This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta recipe combines juicy chicken, melty mozzarella, and tomatoes in a creamy sauce. It's a perfect, flavorful weeknight meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, cubed
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Pour in heavy cream, and simmer for another 3 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta and mozzarella to the skillet, stirring until cheese is melted and everything is combined.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier alternative.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
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