Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe

Looking for a simple, delicious, and comforting meal that combines tender chicken, melty mozzarella, and savory pasta? This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta recipe checks all the boxes! It's easy to make, uses basic ingredients, and comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner. The combination of seasoned chicken, pasta, and gooey mozzarella in a rich tomato-based sauce will satisfy all your cravings. Let’s dive into the recipe and tips for making it perfect every time!

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What Is Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?

Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a simple pasta dish made with seared chicken breasts, pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce, all topped with mozzarella cheese that melts beautifully into the dish. It’s a delicious fusion of classic Italian flavors and the ease of a one-pan meal, making it perfect for family dinners or even meal prepping. The flavors of juicy chicken, tangy tomatoes, and gooey mozzarella come together in a savory, cheesy, and satisfying way.

Ingredients List for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Before getting started, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need for this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta recipe:

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoon olive oil (for searing the chicken)

For the Pasta and Sauce:

• 8 oz (225g) penne pasta (or any short pasta like rigatoni or fusilli)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• ¼ cup chicken broth (to loosen the sauce, optional)
• ¼ cup heavy cream (optional for a creamier sauce)
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (more for extra cheesy goodness!)
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese (optional for extra richness)

For Garnishing:

• ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)
• Extra parmesan cheese (for serving)

Substitutions and Variations

Feel free to customize this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta to suit your tastes or dietary preferences:

• Chicken: Swap chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer juicier meat, or even use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time. For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini.
• Mozzarella: You can use fresh mozzarella, shredded mozzarella, or even mozzarella pearls. If you don’t have mozzarella on hand, provolone or fontina can be great substitutes.
• Pasta: Any short pasta will work well in this dish, such as fusilli, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni.
• Marinara Sauce: You can use a store-bought jar of marinara sauce or make your own homemade tomato sauce.
• Creamy Version: Add a splash of heavy cream to the marinara sauce for a richer, creamier pasta dish.
• Spice Level: If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This dish comes together quickly and easily, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. Here’s how to make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta step by step:

How to Cook Chicken Mozzarella Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Season the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts on both sides with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest. Once slightly cooled, slice the chicken into thin strips.
4. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the marinara sauce. If the sauce is too thick, stir in ¼ cup of chicken broth and heavy cream (if using) to loosen it up and make it creamier. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the Pasta to the Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the marinara sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
6. Mix in the Chicken and Mozzarella: Stir the sliced chicken into the pasta, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Gently stir the mozzarella into the pasta until it melts into the sauce, creating a gooey, cheesy texture.
7. Finish with Parmesan and Garnish: Stir in grated parmesan cheese (if using) for extra flavor, then taste the dish and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
8. Serve Hot: Serve the Chicken Mozzarella Pasta hot, with extra parmesan cheese on the side for sprinkling. Enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is straightforward, here are a few common mistakes to avoid for the best result:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out quickly if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Not Reserving Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water helps loosen the sauce and gives it a silky texture. Make sure to reserve some pasta water before draining.
• Using Pre-Grated Mozzarella: Pre-grated mozzarella often contains anti-caking agents, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. For the best texture, grate your own mozzarella from a block.
• Undercooking the Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta until al dente. If it's too firm, it won’t absorb the sauce properly.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can make this delicious dish even more appealing. Here are some ideas for serving and garnishing your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta:

How to Serve Chicken Mozzarella Pasta:

• With Garlic Bread: Serve alongside garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks to soak up the extra sauce.
• With a Side Salad: A simple green salad or Caesar salad provides a fresh contrast to the rich pasta.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini for a balanced meal.
• In Individual Bowls: For a cozy presentation, serve the pasta in individual bowls topped with extra cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta:

• Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and brightness.
• Serve the pasta in a wide, shallow dish to show off the cheesy goodness, with extra parmesan and crushed red pepper flakes on the side for guests to sprinkle on top.
• Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the top of the finished dish to add richness and shine.

Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe Tips

To make sure your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta turns out perfectly every time, here are a few extra tips:

• Use Fresh Mozzarella: For an extra cheesy, gooey texture, try using fresh mozzarella. Tear it into small pieces and stir it into the hot pasta right before serving.
• Double the Sauce: If you like your pasta extra saucy, feel free to double the amount of marinara or add more cheese for an ultra-cheesy experience.
• Add Veggies: For extra nutrition, stir in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers into the pasta sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! You can use any short pasta like rigatoni, rotini, or even bowtie pasta. Longer pasta like fettuccine or spaghetti can work too, though it changes the texture slightly.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce.

Can I freeze Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Transfer the cooled pasta to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta.

Conclusion

This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta recipe is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and melty mozzarella cheese for a simple, satisfying meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad, and get ready for rave reviews from your family and friends. Try this recipe tonight and enjoy the irresistible flavors of cheesy, savory chicken pasta!

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