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Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

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This comforting Chicken Mozzarella Pasta combines tender chicken, creamy mozzarella, and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich tomato and cream sauce. Quick and easy, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 8 ounces penne pasta
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  • Cook the Pasta:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
    • Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
    • Drain and set aside.
  • Prepare the Chicken:
    • Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
    • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Add the chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.
    • Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.
  • Make the Sauce:
    • In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
    • Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
    • Add the red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
    • Stir in the diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
    • Let the sauce cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
  • Combine Pasta and Chicken:
    • Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet with the sauce.
    • Stir to coat the pasta and chicken evenly in the sauce.
  • Add the Cheese and Herbs:
    • Stir in the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
    • Add the chopped basil and stir to combine.
  • Serve:
    • Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with additional basil and parsley, if desired.
    • Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk. You can also add sautéed spinach or other vegetables to the sauce for more flavor and nutrition.

Nutrition