Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with creamy, cheesy goodness and tender chicken bites, you’ve got to try this Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe. It’s the perfect harmony of succulent chicken, melty mozzarella, and a luscious tomato-cream sauce that clings to every piece of pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing friends with a comforting homemade meal, this recipe brings warmth, flavor, and just the right amount of indulgence to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together magically. Each item contributes in its own way: the pasta provides a hearty base, the chicken adds protein and savory depth, and the cheeses bring that irresistible creamy texture and flavor.

• 300 g pasta (penne or your choice): Picks up all the delicious sauce perfectly with its shape and texture.
• 300 g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces: Tender, lean protein that soaks up the flavors beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps cook the chicken evenly.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic depth that makes every bite more exciting.
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs: A fragrant mix that seasons the chicken with classic Mediterranean flair.
• 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes: Creates a vibrant, tangy base for the sauce.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce irresistibly creamy and silky smooth.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance every flavor.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts luxuriously, adding gooey texture and mild flavor.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty, sharp kick that deepens the flavor profile.
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish: Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish and beautiful color contrast.
• Optional: red pepper flakes for heat: A pinch of spice if you like a little kick in your creamy pasta.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until it’s al dente. This means the pasta should be tender but still have a slight bite, which is ideal for soaking up the creamy sauce later. Once done, drain and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and toss in the bite-sized chicken pieces. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs to build flavor right from the start. Cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to keep warm.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In that same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute, just until it becomes fragrant. This step is key as garlic releases those mouthwatering aromas that will flavor the entire dish.

Step 4: Simmer the Tomatoes

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for around five minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and the sauce to thicken slightly. This forms the rich, tangy base for the creamy sauce that’s to come.

Step 5: Add the Cream

Stir in the heavy cream, transforming the tomato sauce into a dreamy, silky concoction. Let this simmer for another two to three minutes so the blend becomes luxuriously creamy without losing the bright tomato flavor.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet, nestling them in the sauce and stirring gently. This helps the chicken soak up those luscious flavors, making every bite savory and juicy.

Step 7: Toss with Pasta

Add your cooked pasta to the skillet and carefully toss everything together. Make sure every piece of pasta is bathed in the creamy, cheesy tomato sauce, so the dish is perfectly coated with flavor.

Step 8: Add the Cheeses

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the pasta, then stir until the cheeses melt completely. This step makes the dish decadently rich and wonderfully cheesy — the ultimate comfort food vibe.

Step 9: Final Touches

Remove the skillet from heat and garnish your pasta with fresh basil leaves to brighten the flavors. If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes at this stage for a gentle kick that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your warm, creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe immediately, and savor the combination of textures and flavors that makes this dish such a crowd favorite!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves are an absolute must — they add a burst of color and a fresh, herbaceous contrast to the rich sauce. For a little zing, sprinkle red pepper flakes or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil. A handful of toasted pine nuts can also add an unexpected crunch and nutty flavor.

Side Dishes

This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or focaccia on the side can soak up any leftover sauce, making your meal feel more indulgent and satisfying. Steamed or roasted vegetables, like broccoli or asparagus, add healthy color and texture balance to the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special dinner, serve the pasta in warm bowls and top each portion with extra fresh basil and cheese. You can also broil the pasta with a little extra mozzarella on top for a bubbly, golden crust. Another fun idea is to plate it in deep-rimmed pasta dishes and garnish with edible flowers for an elegant touch that impresses guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the pasta is cooled to room temperature first to maintain the sauce’s creaminess without it becoming too watery upon reheating.

Freezing

This Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe can be frozen, but keep in mind that the texture of the cream sauce might change slightly. Freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Reheating

When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to help rejuvenate the sauce’s creamy texture. Warm the pasta slowly over medium-low heat to avoid separating the sauce, stirring frequently until heated through and deliciously melty again.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne works great for holding the sauce, feel free to swap in rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just cook according to package directions and adjust cooking times if needed.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute gluten-free pasta to make this dish safe for gluten-sensitive eaters. Just double-check that all other ingredients, like canned tomatoes, don’t contain hidden gluten.

Can I use a different cheese instead of mozzarella?

Definitely! If you want a sharper flavor, substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina. For more gooey texture, a blend of mozzarella and Monterey Jack works beautifully.

What’s a good way to add more vegetables to this dish?

Try stirring in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers during Step 6 when you add the chicken back to the sauce. This boosts nutrition and adds extra layers of flavor and texture.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

It’s possible with some adjustments. Use dairy-free cream alternatives like coconut or cashew cream and a vegan cheese substitute. The chicken and tomato-base remain the same, so the dish will still be tasty!

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe is a total winner for anyone who loves big flavors, simple ingredients, and a comforting meal that makes every bite feel like a warm hug. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and downright delightful. Give it a try tonight and watch it quickly become one of your all-time favorite dishes to make and share!

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