If you’ve ever dreamed of a comfort meal that wraps you up in cheesy, creamy, and savory flavors all at once, let me introduce you to the magic of Chicken Mozzarella Pasta. This dish brings together tender pieces of chicken, gooey mozzarella, and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich tomato and cream sauce that’s bursting with Italian herbs. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate and quickly becomes a favorite for weeknights or special dinners alike. Once you try this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta, it might just become your go-to for uncomplicated, delicious meals that impress every time.

Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the right ingredients for your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is the first step toward a tasty dinner. These simple staples each play an essential role—from the hearty chicken breast providing protein to the creamy cheeses that give the dish its irresistible texture and flavor.

300 g pasta (penne or your choice): Penne holds the sauce wonderfully, but feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.
300 g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces: Tender chicken adds a satisfying protein boost and soaks up the sauce beautifully.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for sautéing chicken and garlic, adding a fruity richness.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic depth and a savory kick to the sauce.
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs: A classic blend that enhances the tomato base with hints of oregano, basil, and thyme.
1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes: Forms the vibrant, tangy foundation of the sauce.
1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously smooth and creamy.
Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that bring all the flavors into harmony.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey goodness that defines this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the mozzarella perfectly.
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish: Brightens the dish with freshness and a pop of green color.
Optional: red pepper flakes for heat: Gives a subtle spicy kick if you like a little extra excitement in your pasta.

How to Make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until al dente. This means it should be tender but still have a slight bite to hold up well when tossed in the sauce. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the savory components of your dish. This ensures the pasta doesn’t get mushy and keeps the texture just right.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat up the olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium heat, then add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs to infuse that classic Italian flavor. Cook the chicken until it turns golden brown and is cooked through—this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it warm; it’s about to join a delicious sauce that will make it irresistible.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

In that same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it until you start to smell that heavenly aroma—this should take about a minute. Then, pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for around 5 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Lower the heat a bit before stirring in the heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer for another 2 or 3 minutes, until it’s luxuriously creamy and perfectly balanced with the acidity of the tomatoes. This creamy tomato sauce is what makes the Chicken Mozzarella Pasta so unforgettable.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Pasta

Return the golden chicken pieces back into the sauce and mix well so every bite is packed with flavor. Next, gently add the cooked pasta and toss everything together to coat all those noodles evenly with the rich sauce. This is where the magic truly comes together.

Step 6: Add the Cheeses

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the pasta right in the pan. Stir gently until the cheeses melt into a creamy, stringy indulgence. The mozzarella brings that signature stretch and gooey texture, while the Parmesan adds a sharp, savory contrast.

Step 7: Final Touches

Remove the skillet from heat, then garnish your dish with fresh basil leaves for a fresh, aromatic lift. If you want a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top to enliven the flavors and add a subtle kick. Now your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is ready to serve and savor!

How to Serve Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves is a beautiful, flavorful garnish that adds just the right herbal brightness to the creamy pasta. You can also add a little extra Parmesan grated over the top at the table for cheese lovers. For color and spice, don’t hesitate to toss on some red pepper flakes to turn up the excitement.

Side Dishes

This hearty Chicken Mozzarella Pasta pairs perfectly with simple sides that balance its richness. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or a plate of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans brings freshness and crunch. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is also a fantastic choice for soaking up every last bit of that luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta in individual bowls topped with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil for a restaurant-style look at home. You could even bake the pasta briefly in a casserole dish with extra mozzarella on top, creating a golden, bubbly crust that’s absolutely irresistible. Another fun idea is to serve it alongside grilled vegetables arranged artfully on the plate for a vibrant, colorful meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Chicken Mozzarella Pasta keeps well in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. It’s best eaten within 2 to 3 days for optimal freshness and flavor. Before storing, allow the pasta to cool slightly to avoid condensation which can make the dish watery.

Freezing

If you want to make this dish ahead for busy days, freezing is a great option. Freeze the cooked pasta with the creamy tomato sauce and chicken in a freezer-safe container. It’s best to leave the fresh basil off until after reheating to keep its bright flavor intact. Frozen Chicken Mozzarella Pasta can last up to 2 months without losing much of its taste or texture.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw the pasta overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm it gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave it covered, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You may want to add a splash of water or cream to restore the sauce’s original creaminess if it thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices for their melt and flavor, you can experiment with provolone, fontina, or even a sharp cheddar for a different twist. Just keep in mind how the melting qualities might change the dish’s texture.

Is it okay to use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, using pre-cooked or leftover chicken is a smart time-saver. Just add it to the sauce towards the end to warm through without overcooking, and you’re good to go.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Adding red pepper flakes during cooking or as a garnish is the easiest way. You can also use a spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken or incorporate some diced jalapeños for more heat.

What type of pasta works best?

Penne is a popular choice because its tubes hold onto the sauce perfectly, but rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle all work wonderfully. Choose a pasta that you enjoy and can scoop up lots of that creamy tomato sauce.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative, and use dairy-free cheeses for mozzarella and Parmesan. The flavors will be slightly different but still delicious.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a true crowd-pleaser that balances simplicity with rich, satisfying flavors in every bite. Whether you’re new to making creamy pasta dishes or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a fantastic way to bring comfort and joy to your dinner table. Trust me, once you give it a try, it’s going to be one of those dishes you’ll want on rotation for weeks to come. So go ahead, grab these ingredients, and treat yourself to a cozy plate of Chicken Mozzarella Pasta tonight!

Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 11 reviews

Author: Simon
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

A creamy and cheesy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta featuring tender chicken breast in a flavorful tomato and cream sauce, tossed with penne pasta and topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. This hearty dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.

Instructions

Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside carefully to prevent sticking.
Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs. Cook until the chicken is golden brown on the outside and fully cooked through, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine and deepen.
Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and continue simmering for another 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce turns creamy and smooth.
Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir well to coat the pieces evenly with the sauce.
Toss Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss everything together so the pasta is fully coated with the creamy tomato sauce.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the pasta. Stir gently until the cheeses melt into the hot pasta, creating a rich and cheesy texture.
Garnish: Remove from heat. Garnish the pasta with fresh basil leaves and, if you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top.
Serve: Serve the Chicken Mozzarella Pasta hot for a delicious, comforting meal. Enjoy!

Notes

Use penne or your favorite short pasta that holds sauce well.
Adjust red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce but expect less richness.
Fresh basil adds brightness, but dried basil can be used when fresh is unavailable.
For a lower-fat option, use part-skim mozzarella and reduce the amount of cream slightly.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing and Simmering
Cuisine: Italian-American