Oh my goodness, if you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that’s bursting with flavor, look no further than this chicken mozzarella pasta! It’s one of those dishes that just feels like a warm hug after a long day. The combination of tender chicken, gooey mozzarella, and perfectly cooked pasta all smothered in rich marinara sauce is nothing short of heavenly. I love how versatile it is, too! You can whip it up for a weeknight dinner or serve it at a gathering, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Trust me when I say, once you try this chicken mozzarella pasta, you’ll want it on your dinner rotation every week. It’s quick, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this scrumptious chicken mozzarella pasta. I promise you’ll find these ingredients super easy to gather, and they all come together beautifully for a delightful dish!
- 2 cups pasta – I love using penne or rotini for this, but any kind works!
- 1 pound chicken breast – Make sure it’s diced into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese – Shredded mozzarella is best for that melty goodness!
- 1 cup marinara sauce – Use your favorite store-bought brand or homemade if you’re feeling adventurous!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – This adds a lovely richness to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – For that hint of garlicky flavor that we all love.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that complements the sauce and chicken perfectly.
- Salt and pepper – Don’t forget to season to taste!
Once you have these yummy ingredients ready, you’re all set to dive into making this delightful meal!
How to Prepare Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
Alright, let’s get cooking! This chicken mozzarella pasta comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Here’s how I do it:
- First things first, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add your 2 cups of pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. You want it just right because it will finish cooking later!
- While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You’ll want to get that oil nice and warm so it can add flavor to our chicken.
- Next, toss in your 1 pound of diced chicken breast, along with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and cooked through.
- Once the chicken is beautifully golden, pour in 1 cup of marinara sauce and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This will let all those flavors meld together, and your kitchen will smell amazing!
- Now, drain your pasta and add it directly into the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Give everything a good stir to combine.
- Finally, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover the skillet and let it sit for about 3-5 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and gooey.
And there you have it! Your chicken mozzarella pasta is ready to be served. Trust me, it’s as delicious as it sounds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken mozzarella pasta is truly a gem in my recipe collection, and I can’t wait for you to experience it! Here’s why it’s a must-try:
- Quick Prep: You can whip this up in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of savory chicken, rich marinara, and melty mozzarella creates a mouthwatering dish that’s hard to resist!
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and made with simple, wholesome ingredients, it’s a meal you can feel good about.
- Versatile: Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or swap the chicken for shrimp or even a plant-based protein!
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Once you try it, you’ll see why this chicken mozzarella pasta is a staple in my home!
Tips for Success
Let’s make sure your chicken mozzarella pasta turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips:
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: You want it al dente since it’ll continue to cook when mixed with the hot chicken and sauce. Trust me, mushy pasta is a no-go!
- Season as You Go: Taste your chicken as it cooks! A little extra salt or seasoning can make a big difference in flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: If you can, grab fresh basil or even a sprinkle of parmesan to elevate your dish to the next level. Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor!
- Let the Cheese Melt: Cover the skillet after adding your mozzarella; this traps the heat and helps the cheese get all gooey and delicious.
- Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container. Just give it a quick reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep it from drying out.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be a chicken mozzarella pasta pro in no time!
Variations
One of the best things about this chicken mozzarella pasta is how easily it can be customized to suit your taste! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:
- Protein Swaps: Try substituting the chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist, or use diced turkey for a leaner option. If you’re feeling adventurous, a plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas works wonderfully too!
- Cheese Choices: While mozzarella is a classic, you could mix it up with provolone or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile. For a creamier texture, add a dollop of ricotta on top just before serving.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in some sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to pack in more nutrients and color. You can even add sun-dried tomatoes for an extra pop of flavor.
- Pasta Variations: Experiment with different pasta shapes like farfalle or fusilli, or opt for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary preferences.
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own! Whatever you choose, it’s bound to be delicious!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No problem! Storing your chicken mozzarella pasta is super easy, and I’ve got some tips to keep it tasting just as amazing as when it was freshly made. First, let it cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent any moisture build-up, which can make the pasta soggy. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
When it’s time to reheat, you can either pop it in the microwave for a few minutes or heat it gently on the stovetop. If using the stovetop, add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to help keep it moist and prevent sticking. Stir it occasionally until heated through, and voilà! You’ve got a delicious meal ready to enjoy again. Just remember, slow and steady is the key to keeping that flavor and texture on point!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional content for one serving of this delicious chicken mozzarella pasta. Keep in mind, these numbers can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but they give you a good idea:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
Enjoy this wholesome meal knowing it’s packed with protein and flavor, making it a balanced option for your dinner table!
FAQ Section
I’ve gathered some common questions you might have about this chicken mozzarella pasta recipe. Let’s dive in and clear up any confusion!
Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before dicing and cooking. It’ll save you time and still taste fantastic!
What if I don’t have marinara sauce?
No worries! You can use any tomato sauce or even pesto for a unique twist. Just adjust the seasoning to your liking!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare everything up to mixing in the cheese, then store it in the fridge. Just reheat and add the cheese when you’re ready to serve!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Just make sure to use gluten-free pasta, and you’re all set for a delicious gluten-free meal!
How can I make it spicier?
If you like a kick, add some red pepper flakes to the chicken as it cooks, or mix in some diced jalapeños for an extra layer of heat!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this delightful chicken mozzarella pasta, let’s talk about how to elevate your meal experience with some perfect pairings! First off, I love serving this dish with a fresh garden salad. The crunch of crisp lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta. You can drizzle it with a light vinaigrette for an extra zing!
Another favorite is some garlic bread on the side. The buttery, garlicky goodness is just divine for scooping up that rich marinara sauce. And if you want to go the extra mile, a side of steamed vegetables, like broccoli or green beans, not only adds color but also packs in more nutrients.
For a cozy finish, consider a glass of light red wine or sparkling water with a twist of lemon to complement the flavors beautifully. Enjoy your meal, my friend!
Print
Chicken Mozzarella Pasta: 5 Irresistible Comforts to Savor
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious dish of chicken, pasta, and mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients
- 2 cups pasta
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cook until chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Mix cooked pasta with the chicken mixture.
- Top with mozzarella cheese.
- Cover and let cheese melt for 3-5 minutes.
Notes
- Serve with fresh basil for garnish.
- Can substitute chicken with shrimp or vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: chicken mozzarella pasta, pasta recipe, chicken recipe
