Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Picture this: tender chicken mingling with perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a blanket of rich tomato sauce and gooey, melted mozzarella. This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is comfort food elevated, a dish that’s both satisfying and surprisingly simple to create.

This recipe is not just dinner; it’s an experience. Imagine gathering around the table with loved ones, the aroma of garlic and herbs filling the air, as you share a meal that’s as heartwarming as it is delicious. This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is perfect for a cozy night in or a casual get-together with friends.

Here are a few reasons why you’ll absolutely adore this recipe:

• It’s incredibly easy to make, even if you’re not a seasoned chef, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• The combination of juicy chicken, flavorful tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella creates an unforgettable taste sensation that will delight your palate.
• This dish is visually stunning, with its vibrant colors and bubbly cheese, making it a great option for entertaining guests.
• Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is highly versatile; customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs to create your own signature version.

Ingredients for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Chicken Breasts Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They cook quickly and evenly and provide a great source of protein.

Pasta Penne, rotini, or fusilli work well because their ridges hold the sauce beautifully. Choose your favorite type or what you have on hand.

Mozzarella Cheese Fresh mozzarella balls, sliced, are ideal for their creamy texture and milky flavor. You can also use shredded mozzarella if that’s what you have.

Tomato Sauce A good quality tomato sauce forms the base of this dish. Look for one that’s rich and flavorful, or make your own from scratch for an extra special touch.

Garlic Fresh garlic adds a pungent aroma and savory flavor. Mince it finely or use a garlic press for the best results.

Olive Oil Extra virgin olive oil is used for sautéing and adds a fruity note to the dish. Use a good quality olive oil for the best flavor.

Basil Fresh basil provides a sweet and peppery aroma that complements the tomato sauce and mozzarella. Chop it just before adding it to the dish for the best flavor.

Oregano Dried oregano adds a slightly bitter and earthy flavor that enhances the overall taste. Use it sparingly, as it can be quite potent.

Salt and Pepper Seasoning is key to bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients. Use sea salt and freshly ground black pepper for the best results.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried oregano.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. The chicken doesn’t need to be cooked through at this stage.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is searing, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the tomato sauce and bring to a simmer. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried oregano.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss to combine. Arrange the seared chicken breasts on top of the pasta. Top each chicken breast with slices of fresh mozzarella.

Step 6: Bake

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the mozzarella is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil. Serve immediately and watch as everyone raves about your culinary masterpiece.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

The key to Chicken Mozzarella Pasta perfection lies in strategic sequencing. Sear the chicken first to lock in those delicious juices. While the pasta cooks to al dente perfection, craft your vibrant sauce. This keeps things efficient and maximizes flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feeling adventurous? Swap the mozzarella for provolone or add a sprinkle of parmesan for a sharper flavor profile. For a spicy kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes works wonders. Consider adding some sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of intense sweetness.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Chicken Mozzarella Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to keep it moist and prevent sticking.

Here are some helpful tips to elevate your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta game:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken; work in batches to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust.

• Reserve some pasta water before draining. Its starchiness helps the sauce cling to the pasta for maximum flavor delivery.

• Taste as you go! Adjust the seasonings to your liking. A little extra garlic or a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the whole dish.

(Personal anecdote formated as paragraph subheading)

I remember when I first made this for my family, my son, who is usually picky, devoured it. He even asked for seconds, which, let’s be honest, is a culinary miracle in my house!

This recipe, my friends, is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary hug on a plate. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to twirl your pasta with a fork, hum a happy tune, and maybe even do a little kitchen dance. Forget your troubles, grab your apron, and let’s dive into the wonderfully cheesy, comforting world of Chicken Mozzarella Pasta.

Why Chicken Mozzarella Pasta? Because Life is Too Short for Boring Dinners

Let’s be real. Weeknights are chaotic. We’re juggling work, kids, pets that think they’re starving (even though you just fed them), and the eternal question of “What’s for dinner?!” This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is your superhero cape in culinary form. It’s quick, relatively easy, and universally loved. Plus, it’s way more exciting than another night of plain grilled chicken.

Think about it: tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and that gooey, melty mozzarella cheese. It’s a trifecta of deliciousness that’s guaranteed to bring smiles to your dinner table.

The Star of the Show: Choosing Your Chicken

While you could technically use any cut of chicken for this recipe, I highly recommend using chicken breasts. They cook quickly and evenly, and they’re easy to slice or dice. However, if you’re a fan of chicken thighs, go for it! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

And a little secret? Pound those chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking. This ensures they cook uniformly and prevents any dry, sad bits. We’re going for juicy, flavorful chicken here, people!

Pasta Power: Picking the Perfect Shape

Okay, confession time: I have a pasta shape obsession. I firmly believe that different pasta shapes pair better with different sauces. For this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta, I’m partial to penne or rotini. The ridges and tubes of these shapes are perfect for grabbing onto that delicious sauce and ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.

But honestly, use whatever pasta you have on hand. Farfalle (bowties) would be adorable, fusilli (spirals) would be fun, and even good old spaghetti would work in a pinch. The important thing is to cook it al dente – that’s Italian for “to the tooth.” Nobody wants mushy pasta.

Sauce Boss: Crafting the Perfect Tomato Base

Now, let’s talk sauce. This is where you can really get creative and make this dish your own. I like to start with a simple tomato base, using crushed tomatoes as my foundation. Then, I add a generous glug of olive oil, some minced garlic, and a pinch of dried oregano.

But don’t stop there! A little bit of tomato paste adds richness and depth of flavor. A dash of balsamic vinegar (or a squeeze of lemon juice) brightens everything up. And a pinch of sugar balances out the acidity of the tomatoes.

Spice It Up: Adding a Little Heat

If you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick to your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta. Or, if you’re a garlic lover like me, feel free to add an extra clove or two. Just be careful not to burn the garlic, or it will become bitter.

Another great addition is a sprinkle of dried basil. It adds a lovely aromatic flavor that complements the tomatoes and mozzarella perfectly. And if you happen to have fresh basil on hand, even better! Just tear it up and sprinkle it over the finished dish for a burst of fresh flavor.

Cheese, Please! Choosing Your Mozzarella

Okay, let’s talk about the star of the show: mozzarella. While you could technically use pre-shredded mozzarella, I highly recommend using fresh mozzarella. It melts beautifully and has a much creamier texture.

If you’re feeling fancy, you can even use buffalo mozzarella. It’s a bit more expensive, but it’s incredibly flavorful and adds a luxurious touch to the dish. Just be sure to slice it thinly so it melts evenly.

Let’s Get Cooking: The Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe

Alright, enough chit-chat! Let’s get down to business and make some seriously delicious Chicken Mozzarella Pasta.

**Ingredients: **

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

**Instructions: **

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

2. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the chicken. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

5. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), tomato paste, balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice), and sugar to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.

6. Slice or dice the cooked chicken and add it to the sauce. Stir to combine.

7. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

8. Top the pasta with the sliced mozzarella cheese. Cover the skillet and cook for a few minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey.

9. Garnish with fresh basil leaves (if using). Serve immediately and enjoy!

(Personal anecdote formated as paragraph subheading)

Once, I accidentally used crushed tomatoes with basil already in them. It turned out amazing! Now I often add a handful of fresh basil to the sauce as well.

Variations: Spice Up Your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Okay, so you’ve mastered the basic Chicken Mozzarella Pasta recipe. Now it’s time to get creative and experiment with different variations!

• **Vegetarian Delight:** Skip the chicken altogether and add some roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant.
• **Creamy Dream:** Add a dollop of ricotta cheese to the sauce for a richer, creamier flavor.
• **Pesto Power:** Stir in a spoonful of pesto for a burst of fresh, herby flavor.
• **Spicy Sausage:** Add some Italian sausage (turkey or chicken) to the sauce for a heartier meal.

The possibilities are endless! Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own favorite Chicken Mozzarella Pasta variations.

Serving Suggestions: What to Serve with Your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is delicious on its own, but it’s even better when paired with a simple side dish. A crisp green salad is always a good choice. Or, you could serve it with some garlic bread or toasted baguette slices for dipping into the sauce.

And don’t forget the drinks! A refreshing glass of sparkling water or a crisp white grape juice is the perfect complement to this delicious meal.

Chicken Mozzarella Pasta: Your New Weeknight Go-To

So there you have it, folks! My foolproof recipe for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta. It’s quick, easy, delicious, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. So go ahead, give it a try, and let me know what you think!

This dish is a symphony of flavors and textures. The tender chicken, the perfectly cooked pasta, the tangy tomato sauce, and the gooey mozzarella cheese all come together in perfect harmony. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying, perfect for a cozy night in.

So ditch the takeout menus and embrace the joy of home cooking. This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is proof that you don’t need to be a gourmet chef to create a truly delicious meal. Happy cooking!

Conclusion for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful combination of tender chicken, creamy mozzarella, and flavorful sauce. Its flexibility allows for easy customization, making it adaptable to your preferences. Remember the key to success is using quality ingredients and not overcooking the pasta. Enjoy this comforting dish, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying weekend indulgence. So go ahead and create a memorable dining experience with every serving.

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FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella in this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?

Absolutely! While mozzarella’s creamy, melty goodness is a classic choice, feel free to experiment. Provolone will give you a similar texture with a bit more tang, or perhaps some Parmesan for a salty, nutty kick. A blend of cheeses can also be fun – just be sure they melt well. This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is super versatile, so don’t be afraid to get creative with your cheesy additions! Remember, cooking should be about what YOU enjoy.

What’s the best way to prevent the Chicken Mozzarella Pasta from sticking together?

Nobody likes a clumpy pasta dish! To avoid stickiness, make sure you cook your pasta al dente – slightly firm to the bite. After draining, toss it immediately with a bit of olive oil. This will create a barrier and prevent the noodles from clinging to each other. When you add the sauce, ensure it’s warm enough to coat the pasta evenly. Overcooked pasta is more prone to sticking, so keep an eye on it!

How can I make this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta spicier?

Want to turn up the heat? A pinch of red pepper flakes added to the sauce will do the trick. You could also incorporate some diced jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. If you are using fresh peppers, remember to handle them with care and wash your hands thoroughly afterward! Remember, taste as you go and adjust the spice level to your liking. A little goes a long way, so add slowly.

What sides go well with this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?

This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but a simple side salad always adds a refreshing touch. A classic Caesar salad or a mixed green salad with a vinaigrette dressing works beautifully. Some garlic bread would be fantastic for soaking up all that delicious sauce. For a lighter option, consider steamed asparagus or roasted vegetables. The possibilities are endless; choose what complements the richness of the pasta.