If you’re looking for a hearty, cheesy, and downright comforting dish, you’ve come to the right place.
This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta recipe combines tender chicken, gooey mozzarella, and perfectly cooked pasta, all smothered in a rich tomato sauce.
It’s the kind of food that warms you up from the inside out.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a dinner party, or bringing a dish to a potluck, this recipe never fails to impress.
The combination of flavors is universally loved, making it an excellent choice for any occasion.
Plus, one of the best things about this dish is its versatility. You can tweak the recipe to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
Here are some great ways to serve your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta:
With a Side Salad: Serve alongside a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette.
Garlic Bread: Pair with warm garlic bread or breadsticks for a classic combination.
Steamed Vegetables: Serve with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans.
Glass of Wine: Enjoy with a glass of white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
Top with Fresh Herbs: Garnish with extra fresh basil or parsley for added freshness and flavor.
Grated Parmesan: Offer extra grated Parmesan cheese at the table for those who want a little more.
Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges for a splash of brightness that complements the creamy sauce.
Caprese Salad: Pair with a simple Caprese salad of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil for a thematic side dish.
Olives and Antipasto: Serve with a small plate of olives, marinated artichokes, and other antipasto items for an Italian-inspired meal.
These serving suggestions will enhance your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta and create a well-rounded, delicious meal. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips
Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the best Chicken Mozzarella Pasta:
Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Ensure the chicken breasts are fully cooked and juicy by letting them rest after cooking before slicing.
Sauce Consistency: Adjust the thickness of the sauce by simmering longer for a thicker sauce or adding a bit more chicken broth for a thinner consistency.
Cheese Melting: To ensure the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce, grate it yourself rather than using pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
Pasta Cooking: Cook the pasta until just al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce.
Vegetable Add-Ins: For added nutrition, stir in some sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms into the sauce before combining with the pasta and chicken.
Flavor Boost: Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth of flavor.
Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary for a unique twist on the flavor.
Nut-Free Pesto: Add a dollop of nut-free pesto to the sauce for a delicious basil flavor without the nuts.
Enjoy preparing and indulging in this delicious Chicken Mozzarella Pasta!
Recipe FAQ’s
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
ou can prepare the components separately and store them in the refrigerator. Cook the chicken and sauce, and keep them in airtight containers. Cook the pasta but keep it slightly underdone. When ready to serve, combine and heat everything in a skillet.
What other cheeses can I use if I don’t have mozzarella?
You can use provolone, fontina, or even a blend of Italian cheeses as substitutes. Each will offer a slightly different flavor profile.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken. Just add it to the skillet when you add the mozzarella to warm it through.
What are some good wine pairings for this dish?
A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light red wine like Chianti pairs beautifully with chicken mozzarella pasta. The acidity in the wine complements the richness of the cheese.
Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 1 can 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken:Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.
- Make the Sauce:In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, or until the garlic is fragrant.Add the red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another 30 seconds.Stir in the diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened.
- Combine the Pasta and Chicken:Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Stir to combine and coat the pasta and chicken with the sauce.
- Add the Cheese:Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.Add the chopped basil and stir to incorporate.
- Serve:Remove from heat and garnish with additional chopped basil and parsley, if desired.Serve immediately while warm.