Description
This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s packed with flavor! Tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce combine with gooey melted mozzarella for the ultimate comfort meal. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and sure to impress!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 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
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
For the Sauce:
- 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)
For the Cheese & Garnish:
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- Extra mozzarella for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and heavy cream, stirring well.
- Stir in Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and balsamic vinegar.
- Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
- Combine Everything:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce.
- Add the drained pasta and mix well.
- Stir in shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Bake for Extra Cheesiness (Optional):
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Transfer the pasta to a baking dish and top with extra mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese.
- Serve hot and enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite!
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Use freshly shredded mozzarella for the best melting texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Pair with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stove Top
- Cuisine: Italian-American