Name: Easy Creamy Cheesy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta for Dinner
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g pasta (penne or your choice); 300g 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

Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is, without a doubt, one of those magical dishes that instantly brings warmth and joy to the dinner table. As an avid home cook, I’ve always been captivated by recipes that combine simple, wholesome ingredients to create something truly extraordinary, and this dish perfectly fits that description. While its origins might not trace back to ancient Italian trattorias, it beautifully represents the beloved tradition of Italian-American comfort food, where robust flavors and hearty portions reign supreme. It’s a modern classic that marries the creamy richness of mozzarella with succulent chicken and al dente pasta, all bathed in a flavorful sauce.

Why Everyone Loves This Comforting Classic

I believe people adore this dish for several compelling reasons. Firstly, there’s the incredible taste: the tender, perfectly seasoned chicken, the tangy yet sweet tomato base, and the undeniable luxuriousness of melted, bubbly mozzarella stretching with every bite. The contrasting textures, from the firm pasta to the soft chicken and gooey cheese, create a truly satisfying mouthfeel. Furthermore, its inherent convenience, often allowing for quick preparation and versatile customization, makes it a go-to for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals. This particular Chicken Mozzarella Pasta recipe promises to deliver that familiar, comforting taste you crave, transforming your kitchen into a haven of delicious aromas and your dining table into a focal point of shared enjoyment.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:
- 2 large (about 1.5 lbs total) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus extra for pan-frying
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces (about 340g) dry pasta of your choice (penne, rigatoni, rotini, or farfalle work wonderfully)
- 2 teaspoons salt, for pasta water
For the Rich Tomato Cream Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes (preferably San Marzano for best flavor)
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
- ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Mozzarella and Garnish:
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, either small bocconcini (mini balls), ciliegine (cherry-sized balls), or a larger ball cut into ½-inch cubes
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella (optional, for extra cheesy topping)
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn, for garnish

Preparing the Perfect Chicken for Your Pasta

Prepare and Season the Chicken: First things first, let’s get our chicken ready. Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step because it helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown sear and prevents the chicken from steaming in the pan. Once dry, place them on a clean cutting board. Drizzle lightly with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then season generously on both sides with salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you’re feeling a little adventurous and want to add a subtle kick. Really make sure that seasoning adheres well.
Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or a sturdy cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be shimmering, almost smoking, before you add the chicken. Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot pan. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if your skillet isn’t large enough, cook the chicken in two batches. Sear for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they develop a deep golden-brown crust and are cooked through. An instant-read thermometer should register 165°F (74°C) when inserted into the thickest part of the chicken.
Rest and Slice the Chicken: Once your chicken breasts are beautifully seared and cooked, transfer them to a clean cutting board. Immediately tent them loosely with aluminum foil. Allow the chicken to rest for at least 5-10 minutes. This resting period is incredibly important as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that every bite of your chicken is incredibly tender and moist. Trust me, patience here pays off! After resting, slice the chicken into bite-sized cubes or thin strips, depending on your preference. Set aside while we move on to the other components of our “Chicken Mozzarella Pasta.”

Cooking the Pasta Just Right

Boil the Pasta Water: Grab a large pot, the biggest one you have, and fill it with plenty of water. Place it over high heat and bring it to a rolling boil. Once it’s furiously bubbling, add 2 teaspoons of salt. Salting the pasta water is non-negotiable! It’s your only chance to season the pasta itself from the inside out, making a significant difference to the overall flavor of your dish.
Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Add your chosen dry pasta to the boiling salted water. Stir it immediately to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Cook according to the package directions, but aim for al dente. This typically means cooking for 1-2 minutes less than the minimum time specified on the package. Al dente pasta will have a slight bite to it – it shouldn’t be mushy. Remember, it will finish cooking in the sauce later, so undercooking it slightly now is a good strategy.
Reserve Pasta Water and Drain: Before you drain the pasta, make sure to reserve about 1 to 1½ cups of the starchy pasta cooking water. This liquid is a secret weapon! It contains starches that help to emulsify and thicken your sauce, making it incredibly silky and ensuring it clings beautifully to the pasta. After reserving, drain the rest of the pasta in a colander. Do not rinse the pasta; rinsing removes the starch that helps the sauce adhere. Set the drained pasta aside.

Crafting the Irresistible Tomato Cream Sauce

Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet you used for the chicken (no need to clean it, those browned bits add amazing flavor!), add 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced yellow onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes, or until the onion softens and becomes translucent. You’ll start to smell its sweet aroma filling your kitchen – that’s when you know it’s ready.
Add Garlic and Tomato Paste: Now, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for just 1 minute more, stirring constantly, until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as burnt garlic can taste bitter. Immediately stir in the entire can of tomato paste. Cook the tomato paste for 2-3 minutes, stirring it around the pan, allowing it to deepen in color and caramelize slightly. This step intensifies its flavor, giving your sauce a richer, less acidic taste. You’ll notice it changing from a bright red to a deeper, almost brick-red hue.
Build the Sauce Base: Pour in the 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes, followed by the chicken broth. Stir everything together until well combined. Add the dried Italian seasoning, dried basil, dried oregano, and the ½ teaspoon of sugar. The sugar is optional, but I find it really helps to cut through the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste at this stage.
Simmer and Develop Flavors: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for at least 15-20 minutes. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld and deepen. You want to achieve a rich, well-developed tomato flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and marvel at how the simple ingredients are transforming into something truly special.
Introduce the Creaminess: After the sauce has simmered and thickened to your liking, stir in the heavy cream. This is where the sauce transforms from a rustic tomato sauce to a wonderfully rich and creamy “Chicken Mozzarella Pasta” sauce. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes, uncovered, allowing the cream to fully incorporate and warm through. Taste the sauce and adjust any seasonings as needed – perhaps a little more salt, pepper, or even a tiny pinch more sugar.

Chef’s Tip for Sauce Consistency:

If your sauce seems too thick, now is the time to add some of that reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. The starchy water will also help bind the sauce to the pasta beautifully.

Assembling and Finishing Your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Combine Pasta and Chicken with Sauce: Carefully add the drained, cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy tomato sauce. Add the sliced, cooked chicken. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are thoroughly coated in the luxurious sauce. Make sure every strand and piece gets its fair share of that deliciousness.
Integrate the Mozzarella: Now for the star of the show – the mozzarella! Add the fresh mozzarella pieces (bocconcini, ciliegine, or cubed fresh mozzarella) to the pasta mixture. Gently fold them in. The warmth of the pasta and sauce will start to soften and melt the mozzarella, creating pockets of gooey, stretchy cheese throughout the dish.
Transfer and Bake (Optional but Recommended for Gooey Cheese): For an extra layer of flavor and that irresistible bubbling, melted cheese topping, you can transfer the pasta mixture to a large oven-safe baking dish. If desired, sprinkle the ½ cup of shredded mozzarella and the ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. This step really takes the dish from great to absolutely extraordinary. If you’re short on time, you can skip the baking and just let the cheese melt into the hot pasta in the skillet.
Garnish and Serve: Once removed from the oven (or skillet), let the “Chicken Mozzarella Pasta” rest for a few minutes. This allows the heat to settle and the cheese to firm up slightly. Garnish generously with the fresh chopped basil leaves. The vibrant green of the basil not only adds a beautiful pop of color but also a fresh, aromatic finish that perfectly complements the rich sauce and creamy mozzarella. Serve immediately, with extra grated Parmesan cheese on the side for anyone who wants to add more cheesy goodness.

Serving Suggestion:

This hearty “Chicken Mozzarella Pasta” pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette and some crusty garlic bread to sop up every last bit of that incredible sauce. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Conclusion:

Well, my friends, we’ve journeyed through the steps of creating what I truly believe is one of the most satisfying, comforting, and utterly delicious meals you can whip up in your own kitchen: the magnificent Chicken Mozzarella Pasta. If you’ve been following along, you already know this isn’t just any pasta dish; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl, a vibrant symphony of textures and flavors that will undoubtedly earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. From the tender, succulent chicken to the perfectly al dente pasta, generously coated in a rich, savory sauce and crowned with gooey, melted mozzarella, every single bite is designed to delight. It’s the kind of meal that silences a table in the best possible way, eliciting appreciative murmurs as everyone savors their plate. The sheer joy of watching family and friends dive into a bowl of this creamy, cheesy goodness is a reward in itself, making all your efforts truly worthwhile.

I genuinely consider this recipe a must-try for so many reasons. Firstly, its incredible balance of flavors is simply unparalleled. The robustness of the chicken, the bright tang of the tomatoes, the subtle hint of garlic and herbs, and that undeniable creamy, cheesy goodness all come together in perfect harmony, creating a truly memorable taste experience. Secondly, it’s surprisingly versatile and adaptable, meaning you can truly make it your own with simple tweaks, catering to various palates or what you have on hand. And thirdly, despite its gourmet-level taste, it’s remarkably straightforward to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you crave something special without spending hours in the kitchen, or for entertaining guests when you want to impress without the stress. It’s a dish that brings people together, fostering warmth and good cheer around the dinner table, and honestly, what more could you ask for from a meal? It’s truly a testament to how simple ingredients can transform into something extraordinary with just a little love and the right technique.

Elevate Your Experience: Serving Suggestions & Variations

While this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a complete meal in itself, there are always wonderful ways to enhance the experience or tweak it to suit your specific cravings. For a classic pairing, a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the pasta. Think crisp mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and perhaps some thinly sliced red onion. And, of course, no pasta dish is truly complete without some crusty garlic bread or a warm, soft baguette to soak up every last drop of that incredible sauce. Imagine dipping a piece of garlicky bread into the pool of melted cheese and savory sauce – pure bliss! A glass of light-bodied red wine, like a Pinot Noir, or a crisp white, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, would also complement the flavors beautifully.

But let’s talk about variations, because this recipe is a fantastic canvas for your creativity. Feeling adventurous? Try adding a handful of fresh spinach or some sautéed cremini mushrooms to the sauce for an extra layer of earthy flavor and added nutrition. Bell peppers, especially red or yellow, sliced and sautéed until tender-crisp, would also add a beautiful pop of color and a sweet, smoky depth. For a little kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes stirred into the sauce can awaken your taste buds with a delightful warmth. If you’re a fan of different cheeses, consider a mix! A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano, or even a touch of smoked provolone, could introduce exciting new dimensions of flavor and complexity. Don’t have fresh mozzarella? Shredded low-moisture mozzarella works perfectly fine, offering that signature stretch and melt you crave. Experiment with different pasta shapes too – penne, rigatoni, or even orecchiette would hold the sauce beautifully within their nooks and crannies. For an even creamier, more indulgent finish, a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese stirred in at the end can transform the sauce into an even more decadent experience. The possibilities are truly endless, and I wholeheartedly encourage you to play around with ingredients you love and make this recipe uniquely yours!

Your Culinary Journey Begins Here!

Now that you have all the insider tips, from preparation to serving and creative variations, there’s only one thing left to do: make this recipe! I promise you, the joy of creating this dish and then sharing it with loved ones (or simply enjoying it all to yourself, no judgment here!) is incredibly rewarding. I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I truly believe it’s a winner that will impress anyone who tastes it. So, gather your ingredients, put on your favorite apron, and get ready to experience the magic of homemade pasta. Don’t be shy – dive in, embrace the process, and savor every moment. This isn’t just about following instructions; it’s about connecting with your food and creating something truly special from scratch. Feel the warmth emanating from your kitchen, smell the incredible aromas filling your home, and anticipate the sheer deliciousness that awaits.

After you’ve made your own batch of this glorious Chicken Mozzarella Pasta, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! What variations did you try? Did you discover a new favorite side dish or perhaps a unique herb blend that elevated the flavors even further? Or maybe you simply want to share how much your family enjoyed it, or the rave reviews you received from your dinner guests. Your feedback and stories are what make this culinary community so special and vibrant, inspiring me and countless other home cooks. Please feel free to leave a comment below, share a photo of your masterpiece on social media, and tag me! Let’s inspire each other to keep cooking delicious, heartwarming meals and explore new culinary adventures together. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear all about your delicious adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare Chicken Mozzarella Pasta ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce mixture completely, and even cook the pasta al dente. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce, add the cooked pasta, stir to combine, and then top with mozzarella and bake or broil until bubbly and melted. This is a fantastic option for meal prepping and making weeknights easier!

What kind of pasta works best for this recipe?

Medium-sized pasta shapes that can hold a rich sauce are ideal. Penne, rigatoni, ziti, or cavatappi are excellent choices. Their ridges and tubes are perfect for capturing all that delicious sauce and melted mozzarella. You could also use rotini or fusilli for a different texture, ensuring every forkful is loaded with flavor.

Can I substitute the fresh mozzarella?

Yes, you can! While fresh mozzarella offers a unique creaminess and stretch, shredded low-moisture mozzarella (the kind you typically use for pizza) works wonderfully and is often more readily available. Provolone, fontina, or even a blend of Italian cheeses would also be delicious, though they might alter the classic flavor profile slightly and offer a different melt.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store any leftover Chicken Mozzarella Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave, covering the dish to prevent drying out and stirring occasionally. For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again. You might want to add a splash of chicken broth or water if it seems a bit dry to restore moisture.

Can I freeze this pasta dish?

Yes, you can freeze it! It freezes quite well. Once cooled completely, transfer the pasta to freezer-safe containers or aluminum foil pans, ensuring it’s tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake in the oven as you would for fresh leftovers. You might need to add a little extra cooking time and a splash of liquid to prevent it from drying out.

How can I make this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta spicier?

If you love a bit of heat, there are several ways to spice it up! You can add more red pepper flakes to the sauce (start with an extra ½ teaspoon and adjust to your preference). A finely diced jalapeño or serrano pepper added with the garlic and onions would also provide a fresh, vibrant heat. For a smoky kick, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce, ensuring a balanced heat throughout the dish.

What vegetables can I add to this recipe?

This recipe is wonderfully versatile when it comes to adding vegetables. Sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach (stirred in at the very end until wilted), diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), zucchini, or even a handful of frozen peas added during the last few minutes of cooking are all excellent choices. Roasted asparagus or broccoli florets can also be added directly to the dish or served on the side, providing extra nutrients and texture.