Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Indulge in a bowl of rich, creamy, and cheesy goodness with this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta! This dish brings together tender, juicy chicken with a luscious sun-dried tomato and mozzarella sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. The balance of smoky paprika, aromatic garlic, and tangy tomatoes creates a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this pasta delivers on all fronts. It’s a one-pan recipe that’s simple to make but tastes like it came straight from an Italian kitchen. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp salad, and you have a meal that will satisfy every craving!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• Pasta: 8 oz macaroni or penne pasta
• Chicken: 1 lb chicken breasts, sliced into small pieces
• Seasoning: 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ¼ tsp black pepper
• Sauce:
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 oz sun-dried tomatoes (without oil), chopped
  • 1 cup half-and-half (½ cup milk + ½ cup heavy cream)
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ⅓ cup reserved pasta water

Directions:

1. Prepare Ingredients: Cook the pasta according to package instructions, reserving ⅓ cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for 1 minute, then remove tomatoes and set aside.
3. Cook Chicken: Season chicken with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Add to the skillet and cook over high heat for about 1 minute per side until golden brown. Remove from heat.
4. Make Sauce: In the same skillet, add the sun-dried tomatoes, half-and-half, and mozzarella. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Stir until cheese melts completely.
5. Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together. Adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water.
6. Final Seasoning: Stir in parsley, red pepper flakes, and dried oregano. Simmer for a few minutes, then remove from heat. Garnish with additional herbs if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes Kcal: 641 kcal | Servings: 4

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is the kind of meal that checks all the boxes when it comes to comfort food. It’s creamy, cheesy, hearty, and packed with bold flavors. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and mozzarella creates a sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta, delivering a rich taste in every bite.

Here are some reasons why this dish is a must-try:

• Quick and Easy: You can make this dish in just 30–35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Apart from the pot used to cook the pasta, everything else is made in one skillet, saving time on cleanup.
• Flavor Explosion: The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy sweetness, the mozzarella brings creaminess, and the garlic and herbs enhance the dish with layers of taste.
• Perfect for All Occasions: Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish looks and tastes like it came from a restaurant.
• Easily Customizable: You can tweak the ingredients to make it spicier, richer, or even dairy-free.

Origins and Inspiration

While Chicken Mozzarella Pasta doesn’t have a single point of origin, it is heavily inspired by Italian cuisine. The use of mozzarella cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and basil all points to classic Mediterranean flavors. In Italy, pasta dishes are often kept simple yet full of depth, relying on high-quality ingredients to make the flavors shine.

This particular recipe blends the best of Italian cooking with a creamy American-style twist. The addition of half-and-half (a mix of milk and heavy cream) creates a rich sauce that is smoother than traditional tomato-based sauces but still carries that delicious sun-dried tomato essence.

Best Pasta to Use

One of the great things about this recipe is its versatility when it comes to pasta choices. While the original recipe calls for penne or macaroni, you can experiment with different pasta shapes to change the texture and eating experience. Here are some of the best options:

• Penne: The ridges help hold onto the creamy sauce, making every bite flavorful.
• Rigatoni: Similar to penne but larger, offering a more satisfying bite.
• Fettuccine: A wider pasta that pairs beautifully with creamy sauces.
• Fusilli or Rotini: The spiral shape helps trap the sauce for maximum flavor.
• Gluten-Free Options: Use gluten-free penne, chickpea pasta, or brown rice pasta for a gluten-free alternative.

Variations of Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

One of the best things about this dish is that it can be easily customized to fit different dietary preferences and taste preferences. Here are some variations to consider:

1. Spicy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

If you love a bit of heat in your meals, try adding:

• Extra red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Chopped jalapeños or chili flakes for an intense heat level.
• Spicy sausage instead of chicken for a richer, spicier version.

2. Healthy and Lighter Version

For a healthier version, consider:

• Using whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
• Substituting Greek yogurt for half-and-half to cut down on fat while maintaining creaminess.
• Adding extra vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.

3. Dairy-Free Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

For those who are lactose-intolerant, you can still enjoy this dish by:

• Using coconut cream or cashew cream instead of half-and-half.
• Choosing dairy-free mozzarella (many plant-based options melt well).
• Using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

4. Vegetarian Version

If you want to enjoy this dish meat-free:

• Skip the chicken and add mushrooms, artichokes, or tofu instead.
• Increase the sun-dried tomatoes and basil to keep the robust flavor intact.

Serving Suggestions

While Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a complete meal on its own, you can elevate the dining experience by serving it with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:

• Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Fresh Salad: A side salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic dressing balances the richness of the pasta.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or roasted bell peppers add a nutritious touch.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp Chardonnay or a light-bodied Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the creamy, cheesy flavors.

Tips for the Best Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

To ensure your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

1. Season the Chicken Well: Don’t be afraid to use a good amount of salt, pepper, and paprika for maximum flavor.
2. Save Pasta Water: Adding reserved pasta water helps loosen the sauce while keeping it creamy.
3. Don’t Overcook the Mozzarella: Mozzarella cheese should be melted gently to avoid a rubbery texture.
4. Use High-Quality Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Opt for sun-dried tomatoes without excess oil to keep the flavors balanced.
5. Let the Pasta Rest for a Few Minutes: This allows the flavors to meld together before serving.

Conclusion:

Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness. It’s an easy-to-make dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor, making it an ideal choice for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Whether you follow the classic recipe or experiment with variations, this pasta is guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends.

So, the next time you’re looking for a delicious and comforting meal, give this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta a try. Pair it with your favorite sides, pour yourself a glass of wine, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal from the comfort of your home!