Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe

Chicken mozzarella pasta is a comforting and delicious dish that combines tender chicken, gooey mozzarella, and a rich, creamy sauce. This easy-to-make pasta dish is perfect for weeknight dinners and is sure to become a family favorite. With its indulgent flavors and satisfying textures, it’s a delightful meal that feels gourmet without requiring extensive cooking skills.

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:

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

Adjustments:

Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.

Tips:

Season the Chicken: Ensure the chicken is well-seasoned before cooking for enhanced flavor.
Use Fresh Cheese: Fresh mozzarella gives a superior texture and flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
Add Flavor: For heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce while it simmers.
Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance; just reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to maintain creaminess.
Garnish Creatively: Top with freshly grated Parmesan and herbs for added flavor before serving.
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 if needed 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 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!