Go Back
+ servings
Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Irresistibly Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta in 30 Minutes

This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a creamy, indulgent dish ready in 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces penne or fusilli pasta for perfect sauce-hugging shapes
For the Chicken
  • 1 pound chicken breast fresh and juicy or rotisserie chicken for quicker prep
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil essential for sautéing; swap with butter for richer flavor
  • 1 clove garlic fresh is best; use minced from a jar in a pinch
  • 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs elevate flavor; a blend of thyme, oregano, and basil works great
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes the heart of the sauce; diced tomatoes can be an alternative
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream adds creaminess; for lighter version, try milk
For the Cheese
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese melts beautifully; fontina is a great substitute
  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese for sharpness and depth; Grana Padano can also work well
For Garnishing
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil brightens flavor and adds visual appeal; dried allows for quick substitute
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) for a touch of heat; omit for milder taste
Seasoning
  • to taste salt essential for enhancing flavors
  • to taste pepper essential for enhancing flavors

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large skillet
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your choice of penne or fusilli pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Season cubed chicken breast with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs, then add it to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  3. In the same skillet, add one minced garlic clove and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Add a can of crushed tomatoes to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream into the tomato mixture and simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Return the sautéed chicken to the skillet, gently stirring to coat it well with the creamy sauce. Let it cook for a minute.
  7. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it carefully with the chicken and sauce mixture.
  8. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt into the sauce.
  9. Finish off with fresh basil leaves on top. If desired, sprinkle red pepper flakes. Serve hot, accompanied by garlic bread or a side salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is versatile and adapts well to your preferences. Customize ingredients for a personal touch.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!