Savor the delightful flavors of Chicken Mozzarella Pasta, a dish that perfectly balances tenderness and creaminess. This comforting meal is ideal for family dinners, date nights, or any occasion where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. With its rich tomato cream sauce enveloping juicy chicken and pasta, this recipe showcases the best of Italian comfort food.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious meal on busy weeknights.
- Creamy Delight: The luscious tomato cream sauce brings a rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cheese.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use your favorite type of pasta and adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this cheesy and hearty dish!
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: Essential for sautéing chicken and combining flavors in the sauce.
- Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures perfect al dente pasta every time.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
Savor tender chicken and your favorite pasta enveloped in a luscious, herb-kissed tomato cream sauce. Generously topped with gooey mozzarella and sharp Parmesan, it’s pure cheesy perfection!
For the Pasta
- 300 g pasta (penne or your choice)
For the Chicken
- 300 g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
How to Make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then add crushed tomatoes; bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 5 minutes.
Step 4: Create Creaminess
Stir in heavy cream; allow sauce to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until creamy.
Step 5: Combine Chicken with Sauce
Return cooked chicken to skillet; mix well with sauce.
Step 6: Toss in Pasta
Add cooked pasta to skillet; gently toss everything together until well coated with sauce.
Step 7: Add Cheeses
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over pasta; stir until cheeses melt into a creamy mixture.
Step 8: Garnish & Serve
Remove from heat; garnish with fresh basil leaves. Optionally sprinkle red pepper flakes for added heat. Serve hot, savoring every bite of this delightful Chicken Mozzarella Pasta!
How to Serve Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.
Family Style
- Serve the Chicken Mozzarella Pasta in a large bowl for a cozy family-style meal. This encourages sharing and brings everyone together around the table.
Individual Plates
- Plate individual servings of the pasta, garnished with fresh basil and extra cheese. This presentation looks elegant and is perfect for dinner parties.
With Garlic Bread
- Pair the dish with warm garlic bread for an extra indulgent experience. The bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Side Salad
- A simple side salad can balance the richness of the pasta. Consider a mixed greens salad with vinaigrette for a refreshing touch.
Wine Pairing
- Enhance your meal with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio. The acidity in these wines complements the creaminess of the dish.
Leftover Lunches
- Pack leftovers for lunch the next day! Chicken Mozzarella Pasta reheats well, making it a convenient and tasty option.
How to Perfect Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
Perfecting your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta takes just a few simple steps. Here are some tips to elevate this dish to new heights.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and ripe tomatoes will enhance flavor significantly.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your pasta is cooked just right to maintain its texture when mixed with the sauce.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste and modify salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference for a more personalized flavor.
- Let Cheese Melt Completely: Stir until mozzarella and Parmesan are fully melted for that luscious, creamy consistency.
- Garnish Generously: Use plenty of fresh basil or parsley on top before serving; it adds color and freshness.
- Add Protein Variations: Try substituting chicken with shrimp or adding vegetables like spinach for a different twist.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
To complement your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta, consider these delicious side dishes that pair perfectly:
- Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, ideal for dipping into creamy sauces.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing adds crunch and flavor.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies drizzled with olive oil provide a healthy contrast to the rich pasta.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a light yet flavorful side.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition alongside your pasta.
- Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables offers variety and excitement to your meal.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil makes a fresh appetizer before diving into pasta.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chicken Mozzarella Pasta, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Avoid these common mistakes for a perfect dish every time.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long can lead to mushy noodles. Always check for al dente doneness before draining.
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can result in bland flavors. Use salt, pepper, and herbs generously for better taste.
- Not letting the sauce simmer: A quick sauce won’t develop rich flavors. Allow the tomato cream sauce to simmer for at least a few minutes.
- Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheese doesn’t melt well and can affect texture. Opt for fresh mozzarella and good Parmesan for creamy perfection.
- Rushing the cooking process: Hurrying through the steps can lead to unevenly cooked ingredients. Take your time, especially when sautéing chicken and garlic.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best flavor and safety.
Freezing Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
- Freeze in a suitable freezer-safe container.
- Can be stored for up to 3 months. Label the container with the date.
Reheating Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each session until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm on low heat, adding a splash of cream or water if it appears dry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Chicken Mozzarella Pasta that might help you enjoy this delightful recipe even more.
Can I use other types of pasta for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?
Yes! You can substitute penne with farfalle, fusilli, or any pasta shape you prefer.
Is Chicken Mozzarella Pasta suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers throughout the week.
How can I customize my Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?
Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers or adjust the cheese types based on personal preferences to make it your own.
What should I serve with Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?
A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this comforting dish.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different vegetables or spices to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its cheesy goodness any night of the week!
Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Chicken Mozzarella Pasta, a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich tomato cream sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for family dinners or cozy date nights, allowing you to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can savor a creamy, cheesy meal that pleases even the pickiest eaters. Topped with gooey mozzarella and fragrant fresh basil, this Italian-inspired comfort food is sure to become a favorite at your dining table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 300 g pasta (penne or your choice)
- 300 g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken pieces seasoned with salt and pepper; cook until golden brown (5-7 minutes). Transfer to a plate.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and let simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until creamy.
- Return chicken to the skillet; mix well with sauce.
- Toss cooked pasta in the skillet until well coated.
- Sprinkle mozzarella over pasta; stir until melted.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
