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Benjamin

Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta – The Ultimate Weeknight Dinner!

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!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

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

Method
 

Cook the Pasta:
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
Prepare the Chicken:
  1. Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
  4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
  1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and heavy cream, stirring well.
  4. Stir in Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and balsamic vinegar.
  5. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
Combine Everything:
  1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce.
  2. Add the drained pasta and mix well.
  3. Stir in shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce.
  4. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Bake for Extra Cheesiness (Optional):
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Transfer the pasta to a baking dish and top with extra mozzarella cheese.
  3. Bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy:
  1. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese.
  2. 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

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!