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chicken mozzarella pasta in a glass casserole dish

Chicken Mozzarella Pasta – Creamy, Cheesy & Irresistible!


  • Author: Elisa
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Description

This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is creamy, cheesy, and full of Italian flavors! A quick and easy 30-minute meal perfect for any night of the week


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Pasta & Sauce:

  • 12 oz (340g) penne or rigatoni pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh basil)
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Garnishing (Optional):

  • Fresh basil or parsley
  • Extra mozzarella or Parmesan
  • A drizzle of balsamic glaze

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

2. Cook the Chicken

  1. Season chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
  4. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
  3. Pour in crushed tomatoes, then stir in salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, basil, and oregano.
  4. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to develop.
  5. Stir in heavy cream, mixing until smooth.

4. Combine Everything

  1. Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
  2. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce.
  3. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

5. Serve & Enjoy!

  • Garnish with fresh basil, parsley, or extra cheese.
  • Serve immediately with garlic bread or a fresh salad.

Notes

Use fresh mozzarella – It melts better and creates a gooey texture.
Don’t overcook the pasta – Keep it al dente so it doesn’t become mushy.
Let the sauce simmer – This deepens the flavors and makes the dish richer.

  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 20
  • Category: DINNER
  • Cuisine: AMERICAN

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 550