Chicken mozzarella pasta is a comforting and delicious dish that brings together tender chicken, gooey mozzarella, and rich, creamy sauce. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner option that feels indulgent without requiring extensive cooking skills. This dish is packed with flavor and is sure to please the entire family. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and cheesy.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (plus extra for topping)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make:

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water, and set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

4. Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

5. Combine Pasta and Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the drained pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are well coated in the creamy cheese sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve: Divide the pasta among serving plates, top with additional mozzarella cheese if desired, and garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

Adjustments:

• Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.

Tips:

• Season the Chicken: Make sure to season the chicken well before cooking to enhance its flavor.
• Use Fresh Cheese: Fresh mozzarella will give a better texture and flavor than pre-shredded cheese, which can contain anti-caking agents.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente pasta, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
• Add Flavor: For a touch of heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce while it simmers.
• Make Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time. Simply prepare the pasta and sauce, combine, and refrigerate. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Garnish Creatively: For added flavor, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan and fresh herbs on top just before serving for a burst of freshness.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a little cream or water to maintain the sauce’s consistency.

How to Store:

Store any leftover chicken mozzarella pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce, and warm it gently on the stovetop to maintain its creamy texture.

Conclusion:

Chicken mozzarella pasta is a simple yet luxurious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy sauce and melty cheese, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Enjoy this delightful pasta with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!