The Best Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe That Wows Every Time

Creamy and indulgent, this chicken mozzarella pasta recipe brings comfort food to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Tender chicken pieces mingle with melted cheese and perfectly cooked pasta, creating a symphony of flavors.

Every bite promises a rich, satisfying experience that will make your taste buds dance with joy.

The combination of juicy chicken and stretchy mozzarella creates a meal that feels both luxurious and homey.

Simple ingredients come together to craft a restaurant-worthy dish right in your kitchen.

Fresh herbs and a sprinkle of parmesan add the perfect finishing touch.

Pasta Night Gets a Mozzarella Makeover

• Whip Up Quickly: Perfect for busy weeknights, this chicken mozzarella pasta comes together in just a few simple steps, making it a go-to meal for hectic schedules.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Packed with cheesy goodness and tender chicken, this dish appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table leaves satisfied.
• Customize with Ease: Easily adaptable by switching proteins, adding extra vegetables, or playing with different seasonings, making it a versatile recipe for creative cooks.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor combine in this skillet-style meal, reducing dish-washing time and maximizing cooking enjoyment.

Ingredients Needed for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

• Chicken: Tender protein that forms the main body of the dish and provides a hearty, satisfying element.

• Pasta: Classic base that absorbs the sauce and creates a comforting texture.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Creamy cheese that melts beautifully and adds rich, smooth flavor.

• Marinara Sauce, Olive Oil: Provides a classic Italian tomato base with a smooth, tangy profile.
• Salt, Black Pepper, Italian Seasoning, Garlic: Essential seasonings that enhance and deepen the overall flavor of the chicken and pasta.

• Fresh Basil: Bright herb that adds a fresh, aromatic finish to the dish.

Steps to Prepare Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Step 1: Boil Delicious Pasta

Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil.

Drop the pasta into the bubbling water and cook until perfectly al dente.

Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside, allowing it to rest while you prepare the other components.

Step 2: Sizzle Golden Chicken

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

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Italian seasoning

Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until each piece turns a beautiful golden brown and becomes fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Awaken Garlic Flavors

Toss minced garlic into the skillet with the chicken.

Stir and sauté for one minute, letting the garlic release its aromatic magic and fill the kitchen with an incredible fragrance.

Step 4: Create Saucy Goodness

Pour marinara sauce into the skillet, gently stirring to combine with the chicken.

Let the sauce simmer and meld together for 5 minutes, developing rich, deep flavors.

Step 5: Marry Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing and mixing until every strand is beautifully coated with the savory sauce.

Step 6: Melt Mozzarella Magic

Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the pasta and chicken.

Stir gently until the cheese melts completely, creating a creamy, irresistible coating.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat.

Scatter fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor.

Serve immediately while hot and bubbling.

Tips for Extra Cheesy Mozzarella Pasta

• Replace chicken with shrimp, tofu, or turkey for varied dietary needs and flavor profiles.
• Let mozzarella slightly cool before stirring to prevent overcooking and maintain creamy texture.
• Add a splash of white wine or balsamic vinegar during sauce simmering for enhanced flavor complexity.
• Use a mix of fresh basil, parsley, and oregano for more vibrant and layered herb notes.
• Incorporate red pepper flakes or cayenne for a subtle heat kick if desired.

New Twists for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Fans

• Vegetarian Pasta Delight: Replace chicken with roasted portobello mushrooms or grilled tofu for a plant-based version. Season the mushrooms or tofu with the same Italian seasoning for a rich, savory flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or quinoa. Ensure marinara sauce is certified gluten-free to accommodate those with wheat sensitivities.
• Spicy Mediterranean Fusion: Add red pepper flakes, diced kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese for a zesty Mediterranean-inspired variation. Sprinkle with za'atar seasoning for extra depth.

Serving Chicken Mozzarella Pasta with Sides

• Rustic Italian Dinner Night: Pair this hearty chicken mozzarella pasta with a crisp green salad topped with balsamic vinaigrette for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.
• Cheese Lover's Dream: Sprinkle extra shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan on top just before serving to enhance the cheesy richness and create a golden, melted crust.
• Bread Companion: Serve alongside warm garlic bread or crusty Italian bread to soak up the delicious marinara sauce, making every bite even more satisfying.
• Wine Pairing Perfection: Choose a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese to complement the robust flavors of the chicken and tomato sauce.

Storing Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Well

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days, keeping pasta and chicken fresh and safe to eat later.
• Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few drops of water to prevent dryness. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.
• Warm pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or extra marinara sauce to restore moisture. Stir gently and frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

FAQs

• What ingredients can I substitute if I don't have marinara sauce?

You can use tomato sauce mixed with Italian herbs, crushed tomatoes, or even homemade tomato purée as alternative options for marinara sauce.

• How do I ensure the chicken stays tender and juicy?

Cook the chicken on medium heat and avoid overcooking. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, and season them well before cooking to lock in moisture and flavor.

• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then reheat and add fresh mozzarella just before serving to maintain the cheese’s creamy texture.

• Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Store the chicken and sauce separately from the pasta, and combine them when ready to eat to prevent the pasta from becoming soggy.

Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe

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4.7 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Indulgent chicken mozzarella pasta brings Italian comfort right to your dinner table. Creamy cheese, tender chicken, and perfectly al dente noodles create a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1 pound or 454 grams)
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Pasta and Cheese:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) pasta (penne, fusilli, or any short pasta)
• 2 cups (226 grams) mozzarella cheese, shredded

Seasonings and Liquids:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces or 411 grams) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) heavy cream
• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

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Instructions

1. Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, following package timing. Strain thoroughly and reserve.
2. Heat olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium-high temperature. Season chicken with robust blend of salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs.
3. Sear chicken pieces until exterior develops golden-brown caramelization and interior reaches complete doneness, approximately 6 minutes per side.
4. Introduce finely chopped garlic into skillet, allowing aromatics to release for 45-60 seconds without burning.
5. Cascade marinara sauce into skillet, gently incorporating with chicken and creating harmonious sauce consistency. Allow gentle simmer for 4-5 minutes.
6. Transfer drained pasta directly into sauce, carefully tossing to ensure complete coating and flavor integration.
7. Sprinkle mozzarella throughout pasta, stirring until cheese melts completely and creates luxurious creamy texture.
8. Immediately transfer to serving platter, garnish with freshly torn basil leaves for vibrant color and enhanced herbal notes. Serve piping hot for optimal taste experience.

Notes

• Toast herbs and spices before adding to enhance their flavor and depth in the dish.
• Use high-quality mozzarella for a creamy, rich texture that melts smoothly into the sauce.
• Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner protein option that cooks quickly and evenly.
• Substitute marinara with homemade or roasted tomato sauce for a more complex, personalized taste profile.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 545 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 430 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 44 g
• Cholesterol: 115 mg