Irresistible Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe for Cozy Nights

The aroma of warm, melted mozzarella mingling with the savory scent of sautéed chicken creates an irresistible allure. The Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe isn’t just another dish; it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl, perfect for cozy nights or impromptu gatherings that demand a little slice of culinary magic.

Picture this: it’s a rainy Friday evening, and you’re snuggled up on the couch, craving something hearty yet easy to whip up. This delightful dish is your answer! With its creamy texture and tantalizing flavors, it has ‘comfort food’ written all over it. Get ready to dive into a flavor experience that will have you dreaming about it long after dinner!

Ingredients for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe

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

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best; adjust according to your guest list or appetite.

• Pasta of Choice: Use your favorite type—penne or fusilli are great options for holding onto sauce.

• Fresh Mozzarella: Opt for high-quality mozzarella; it melts beautifully and gives that gooey texture everyone loves.

• Olive Oil: A drizzle of good olive oil makes everything taste richer and helps prevent sticking.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves lend a fragrant punch; don’t skimp on these aromatic gems.

• Canned Tomatoes: Choose whole or diced tomatoes—they add sweetness and depth to the sauce.

For the Seasoning:

• Italian Seasoning: A dash or sprinkle brings all those lovely herb flavors together beautifully.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing flavor; adjust according to your taste preferences.

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

How to Make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe

Start by prepping the chicken. Cut each boneless breast into bite-sized pieces, ensuring even cooking. Season generously with salt and pepper to amplify flavors right from the start.

Next, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook until they turn golden brown and cooked through—about five to seven minutes should do the trick.

Once your kitchen fills with that delicious aroma, toss in minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant but be careful not to burn it! This step creates a savory base that elevates the entire dish.

Now it’s time to introduce those canned tomatoes! Pour them into the skillet, breaking them up slightly with a spoon. Bring everything to a gentle simmer; let those flavors mingle for about ten minutes while you boil your pasta.

In another pot, cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining—it’s liquid gold for adjusting sauce consistency later!

Combine the drained pasta with your chicken and tomato mixture in the skillet. Stir gently but thoroughly so every noodle gets coated in that luscious sauce.

Now comes the fun part—add chunks of fresh mozzarella! As you stir, watch how they begin melting into gooey goodness throughout the pasta. If needed, use reserved pasta water to achieve desired creaminess.

Lastly, stir in Italian seasoning and give it one final mix before serving. The combination of textures will leave you wanting more!

And there you have it! Your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is ready to impress friends or family—or maybe just yourself after a long day! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken in a skillet until it’s golden brown. While the chicken finishes cooking, boil your pasta to al dente perfection. Prepare the sauce simultaneously for an efficient and delightful meal.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or even veggies like zucchini or bell peppers. Experiment with fresh basil or oregano to enhance flavor, and add red pepper flakes if you like a kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.

Sometimes I whip this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta up on busy weeknights, and my family devours it faster than I can say “seconds.” The smiles and empty plates say it all!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe?

To prepare a delicious Chicken Mozzarella Pasta, you will need boneless chicken breasts, mozzarella cheese, pasta of your choice (like penne or spaghetti), garlic, olive oil, fresh basil, and crushed tomatoes. Additionally, seasonings such as salt, pepper, and Italian herbs enhance the flavors. This combination of fresh ingredients creates a savory dish that is both satisfying and easy to make.

How long does it take to make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?

The Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe is relatively quick to prepare. Typically, it takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes cooking the pasta and sautéing the chicken with garlic and tomatoes. If you want to save time, consider preparing some ingredients in advance. The quick cooking time makes this recipe ideal for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.

Can I modify the Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! One of the great things about this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe is its versatility. You can substitute grilled vegetables for chicken if you’re looking to make a vegetarian version. Additionally, using different types of cheese like parmesan or adding spices such as red pepper flakes can bring new flavors to your dish. Feel free to experiment with whatever ingredients you have on hand.

What should I serve with Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?

To complement your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe, consider serving it with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette enhances the meal without overpowering it. For those who enjoy a hearty dinner, pairing it with roasted vegetables adds nutritional value while bringing more color to your plate.

Conclusion for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe:

In summary, the Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe is an easy and flavorful dish that can be prepared in just 30 minutes. With fresh ingredients such as chicken, mozzarella cheese, and pasta combined with herbs and spices, it creates a satisfying meal for any occasion. Feel free to customize the recipe according to your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. Whether enjoyed on a busy weeknight or served at a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.

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Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

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Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a deliciously comforting dish that combines tender chicken, gooey mozzarella, and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich tomato sauce. This recipe is not only quick to prepare, taking just 30 minutes, but it also offers a delightful burst of flavors that will satisfy your cravings. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 28 oz canned diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown (5-7 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
4. Stir in the canned tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes while boiling pasta according to package instructions.
5. Drain pasta and combine it with the chicken mixture in the skillet.
6. Mix in cubed mozzarella, allowing it to melt as you stir. Adjust creaminess with reserved pasta water if needed.
7. Finish with Italian seasoning, mix well, and serve hot.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 570mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: - For a vegetarian option, swap chicken for grilled vegetables or mushrooms. - Experiment with herbs like fresh basil or oregano for added flavor. - To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.