This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a tasty treat that’s easy to whip up! It features tender chicken smothered in creamy mozzarella sauce, tossed with your favorite pasta.
The best part? It makes a cozy dinner that feels special without the fuss. I like to sprinkle a little extra cheese on top before serving—because, why not? 🧀
Cooking this dish is a breeze! Just cook the chicken, mix in the sauce, and combine everything with pasta. It’s quick, satisfying, and family-friendly—what’s not to love?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Opt for penne or ziti, as their shapes hold sauce well. If you have gluten sensitivities, you can use gluten-free pasta or even spiralized zucchini for a low-carb option.
Chicken: Diced chicken breast is great, but you could also use cooked rotisserie chicken to save time. For a vegetarian twist, consider chickpeas or tofu instead!
Cherry Tomatoes: They bring a burst of flavor. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes work in a pinch. Some like to roast them for added sweetness.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, part-skim mozzarella can be used. For a different flavor, try adding parmesan or goat cheese!
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. You could substitute it with half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Cook Chicken Perfectly Without Drying It Out?
Cooking chicken to perfection is all about timing and heat! Here are some helpful tips:
- Start with medium heat. This allows the chicken to get a nice golden-brown color without burning.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; give the chicken space to cook evenly. If needed, cook in batches.
- Cook until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat. Using a meat thermometer works best.
- Letting the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking helps lock in moisture, resulting in juicier pieces.
How to Make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta (penne or ziti)
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Optional: red pepper flakes (for added heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Chicken Mozzarella Pasta dish will take about 25 minutes to prepare in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and chicken, and then about 15 minutes combining everything together and letting it simmer. Perfect for a quick dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by boiling a pot of water. Once it’s bubbling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (tender but with a little bite). After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced chicken to the skillet. Season it with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. It should be no longer pink in the center.
3. Add the Tomatoes:
Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook them with the chicken for another 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and release some juices. This will add a lovely flavor to your dish!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Now, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Allow it to simmer gently for a few minutes. This will create a rich and creamy sauce that will coat the pasta beautifully.
5. Combine the Pasta:
Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together so that the pasta is well-coated with the sauce and mixed with the chicken and tomatoes.
6. Add the Cheese:
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix it well until the cheese melts and becomes creamy throughout the pasta. Yum!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Serve your delicious Chicken Mozzarella Pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil on top. If you like a little kick, sprinkle with red pepper flakes. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Substitute the Pasta for Another Type?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta you like, such as fusilli, spaghetti, or gluten-free options. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose, following the package instructions for best results.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, use coconut cream or a non-dairy milk with a thickener, like cornstarch, to achieve a creamy consistency.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in some spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the chicken and tomatoes until they are tender before adding the cream and pasta.
