Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta – The Ultimate Weeknight Dinner!

Name: Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta – The Ultimate Weeknight Dinner!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces); 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 12 oz penne or rotini pasta; 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for extra depth); 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ¼ cup chopped fresh basil; Extra mozzarella for topping (optional)

Hi I'm Benjamin

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on January 30, 2025

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a rich, creamy pasta dish—especially when it’s packed with tender chicken, gooey melted mozzarella, and a velvety tomato-based sauce. Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is the perfect balance of indulgence and ease, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or even special occasions when you want something hearty yet simple to prepare.

This dish is a fusion of classic Italian flavors and creamy pasta indulgence, bringing together juicy, seasoned chicken, a luscious sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a meal that pleases kids and adults alike and can easily be customized to fit different tastes.

In this guide, we’ll explore what makes this dish so special, the best ways to serve it, expert cooking tips, popular variations, and frequently asked questions to ensure that your homemade creamy chicken mozzarella pasta turns out restaurant-quality every time.

Why This Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Stands Out

1. Creamy, Cheesy, and Packed with Flavor

This pasta is not just another creamy dish—it’s layered with rich flavors. The combination of tomatoes, heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan creates a sauce that is both tangy and velvety, while the mozzarella adds a stretchy, cheesy bite that makes it extra indulgent.

2. A One-Pan Wonder for Easy Cooking

One of the best things about this dish is that it’s all made in one skillet. Cooking the chicken, preparing the sauce, and tossing everything together in the same pan allows the flavors to develop beautifully while making cleanup a breeze.

3. Ready in Under 40 Minutes

While this pasta tastes like it took hours to prepare, it actually comes together in under 40 minutes. That makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious but quick.

4. Perfect for Leftovers & Meal Prep

Like many pasta dishes, this one gets even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together. That makes it a great option for meal prepping, as you can make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

5. Versatile and Customizable

This recipe serves as a great base for all kinds of variations. Whether you want to add extra veggies, swap the protein, make it spicier, or turn it into a baked dish, the possibilities are endless.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces) – 2 large (tender and juicy protein)
Salt – 1 teaspoon (enhances overall flavor)
Black pepper – ½ teaspoon (adds mild heat)
Garlic powder – ½ teaspoon (deepens the garlic taste)
Smoked paprika – ½ teaspoon (adds a smoky depth)
Olive oil – 1 tablespoon (for searing the chicken)

For the Pasta:

Penne or rotini pasta – 12 oz (holds the sauce well)
Salt (for boiling water) – 1 tablespoon (flavors the pasta)

For the Sauce:

Unsalted butter – 2 tablespoons (rich, creamy base)
Garlic (minced) – 2 cloves (bold and aromatic)
Crushed tomatoes (canned) – 14.5 oz (creates a flavorful tomato base)
Heavy cream – 1 cup (adds luxurious creaminess)
Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon (herbaceous and fragrant)
Red pepper flakes (optional) – ½ teaspoon (for a hint of spice)
Salt – ½ teaspoon (balances the sauce)
Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon (enhances depth)
Balsamic vinegar (optional) – 1 teaspoon (adds slight acidity for balance)

For the Cheese & Garnish:

Shredded mozzarella cheese – 1 ½ cups (melts into gooey goodness)
Grated Parmesan cheese – ¼ cup (adds extra depth and nuttiness)
Chopped fresh basil – ¼ cup (adds freshness and color)
Extra mozzarella (for topping, optional)

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente.
Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook the chicken until golden brown.
Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
Add crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and spices.
Simmer until the sauce thickens.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return chicken to the skillet, then stir in pasta.
Add mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted.

Optional Step 5: Bake for Extra Cheesiness

Transfer pasta to an oven-safe dish, top with extra mozzarella, and bake at 375°F for 10 minutes.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories – 680 kcal
Carbohydrates – 60g
Protein – 40g
Fat – 32g
Saturated Fat – 15g
Sodium – 900mg

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

1. Classic Pasta Bowl

The simplest way to enjoy this dish is in a deep bowl, topped with fresh basil and extra Parmesan. A side of garlic bread makes it even better, helping you scoop up every bit of the creamy sauce.

2. As a Baked Pasta Dish

For a different twist, transfer the finished pasta to an oven-safe dish, top it with more mozzarella, and bake it at 375°F until golden and bubbly. This adds a cheesy, crispy layer that takes the dish to another level.

3. With a Fresh Side Salad

Balance the richness of the pasta with a light salad made of:

Arugula or mixed greens
Cherry tomatoes
Cucumbers
A simple lemon vinaigrette

The freshness complements the creamy pasta beautifully.

4. Paired with Roasted Vegetables

If you want to sneak in extra nutrients, serve the pasta alongside roasted zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus, or broccoli. The natural sweetness of roasted veggies contrasts well with the creamy sauce.

5. With a Glass of Wine

For an elevated experience, pair this dish with:

A crisp white wine (like Chardonnay) to complement the creamy sauce.
A light red wine (like Pinot Noir) to bring out the tomato flavors.

Expert Cooking Tips for the Best Pasta

1. Use Freshly Grated Mozzarella for the Best Melt

Pre-shredded mozzarella contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. For the best gooey, stretchy cheese pull, use freshly grated mozzarella or slice fresh mozzarella balls.

2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken

To keep the chicken juicy and tender, sear it just until golden brown and cooked through, then remove it from the pan. Letting it rest before adding it back helps lock in the juices.

3. Cook the Pasta Al Dente

Pasta continues to absorb moisture even after it’s removed from boiling water. Cooking it until just al dente prevents it from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce.

4. Balance the Sauce with Acidity

To prevent the sauce from feeling too heavy, a small amount of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice balances the richness and enhances the overall flavor.

5. Use Reserved Pasta Water to Adjust Consistency

If the sauce becomes too thick, adding a splash of reserved pasta water helps loosen it without losing creaminess.

6. Let the Pasta Rest Before Serving

Allowing the pasta to sit for a few minutes before serving helps the sauce fully coat every bite, making it extra flavorful and well-blended.

Popular Variations of Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

1. Spicy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Add extra red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a fiery kick.
Use spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken for an extra heat boost.

2. Lighter Version

Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative.
Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for added fiber.

3. Vegetarian Option

Replace chicken with mushrooms, grilled zucchini, or chickpeas for a delicious meat-free version.

4. Gluten-Free Adaptation

Use gluten-free pasta and make sure your Parmesan and mozzarella are gluten-free.

5. Extra Protein Boost

Stir in cooked shrimp, ground turkey, or crispy bacon for a heartier version.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.

2. Can I Freeze Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?

While this dish is best fresh, you can freeze it without adding the cheese topping. When reheating, stir in fresh cheese for the best texture.

3. What’s the Best Pasta Shape for This Recipe?

Penne, rotini, and rigatoni work best because their ridges hold onto the sauce well. Avoid thin pasta like angel hair, which may become too soft.

4. How Do I Make the Sauce Extra Creamy?

For an extra velvety sauce, stir in two tablespoons of cream cheese or extra Parmesan.

5. Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken?

Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken strips can be used as a time-saving shortcut.

Conclusion: A Must-Try Creamy Pasta Dish

Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is the ultimate comfort food—rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner, meal prep, or entertaining guests, it’s a dish that never disappoints.

With simple ingredients, easy techniques, and endless ways to customize it, this pasta proves that homemade meals can be just as indulgent as restaurant favorites.

If you haven’t tried this dish yet, now is the perfect time. Grab your ingredients, cook up this creamy masterpiece, and enjoy a bowl of pure comfort and satisfaction!