Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe

If you love hearty, comforting dishes that bring both creaminess and bold flavors to the table, you are going to fall head over heels for this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta. With tender, pan-seared chicken and sun-dried tomatoes wrapped up in a luscious, cheesy sauce, this recipe hits every note for a satisfying meal that feels both indulgent and homey. Whether you’re cooking for family or a cozy night in, the Chicken Mozzarella Pasta will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes to impress and delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta truly shine, you only need a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each one adds layers of flavor, richness, and color that make this dish so crave-worthy.

• 8 oz penne pasta: The perfect pasta shape to catch all the creamy sauce and tender chicken pieces.
• 1 lb chicken tenderloins, sliced: Quick-cooking and tender, they soak up the seasoning beautifully.
• 1/4 tsp each salt and paprika: Adds savory depth and a hint of smoky warmth to the chicken.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic brings aromatic richness that wakes up the entire dish.
• 4 oz sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: Sweet and tangy bursts that elevate the sauce with vibrant color.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing, it lends a fruity, smooth base to build flavors on.
• 1 cup half-and-half (or 1/2 cup cream + 1/2 cup milk): Creates the luxurious, creamy texture that defines the sauce.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly for that gooey, cheesy goodness throughout.
• 1 tbsp dried basil: Introduces herbal brightness that balances the richness.
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (or more to taste): A subtle spicy kick that gives the dish a little exciting bite.
• 1/4 tsp salt (plus more to taste): Essential to bring all the flavors into harmony.
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta cooking water: Ideal for thinning the sauce to the perfect consistency without losing flavor.

How to Make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Start by cooking your penne pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente — that perfect tender bite that holds up well in the sauce. Be sure to reserve about half a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining; this starchy water works wonders when you need to loosen your sauce later on without watering down the flavor.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season your sliced chicken tenderloins with a touch of salt and paprika to add warmth and flavor. Heat up olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken slices for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side, just until beautifully golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside to rest while you build your sauce.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil and toss in the minced garlic along with the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté them for about a minute until the garlic becomes fragrant and the tomatoes soften slightly. This step infuses the oil with herbal and tangy notes that will become the foundation of your sauce. Remove the tomatoes from the pan and set them aside for the next step.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Mozzarella Sauce

Pour in the half-and-half (or cream and milk mixture) and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Remove the pan from the heat and whisk in the shredded mozzarella until it melts smoothly into a creamy, cheesy sauce. This luscious base is what makes the Chicken Mozzarella Pasta feel like a rich, indulgent treat.

Step 5: Combine and Toss Everything Together

Add the dried basil, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt to the sauce, giving it a good stir to balance the flavors. Return the cooked penne pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and seared chicken to the skillet. Toss everything gently to ensure each piece of pasta is coated perfectly with the creamy mozzarella sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta cooking water until you reach a saucy, luscious consistency.

Step 6: Final Seasoning and Garnish

Taste your creation and adjust the seasoning with a little extra salt or red pepper flakes to your preference. If you like, finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil to bring a pop of color and fresh herbal notes to the dish. Now your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is ready to serve, glowing with creamy, cheesy, savory goodness that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

How to Serve Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnishes elevates your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta both visually and flavor-wise. Fresh basil leaves provide a fragrant burst that contrasts beautifully with the rich sauce. A light dusting of grated Parmesan cheese can also add a salty, nutty spark on top. For a little extra brightness, consider a squeeze of lemon juice or a scattering of chopped fresh parsley.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with simple side dishes that complement without overwhelming. A crisp green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette adds refreshing acidity to balance the creaminess. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of that scrumptious sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables, like broccoli or asparagus, bring color and a slight crunch to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation can make a favorite dish feel extra special. Try serving the Chicken Mozzarella Pasta in individual bowls topped with a basil leaf and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of elegance. Alternatively, layering it in a shallow casserole dish and broiling for a couple of minutes can give you a gooey, golden mozzarella crust that is so inviting. For a fun twist, serve alongside small bowls of extra mozzarella for guests to add to their liking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers of this delightful Chicken Mozzarella Pasta, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish will stay fresh for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy those creamy, cheesy flavors all over again with minimal effort.

Freezing

While this pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for longer storage. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the texture of the pasta may slightly change upon thawing, and sauce might become a bit grainy, so reheating gently is key.

Reheating

When reheating, do so slowly on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at medium power, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to revive the creamy sauce and prevent it from drying out. This brings your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta back to life beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?

Absolutely! While penne works wonderfully due to its shape catching sauce well, you can substitute with rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti based on your preference. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is it possible to make this recipe with chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but slice them thinly and be careful not to overcook as they can dry out faster than tenderloins. Keeping the chicken juicy is key to maintaining the dish’s delicious texture.

Can I make the sauce dairy-free or vegan?

You can swap half-and-half for unsweetened plant-based milks like oat or cashew and use dairy-free mozzarella alternatives to keep the creamy texture. Adjust seasonings as needed to maintain flavor depth.

How spicy is the Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?

The recipe calls for just a hint of red pepper flakes to add a subtle heat that complements the creaminess. Feel free to increase or decrease the amount depending on your spice tolerance.

Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook and slice the chicken, and even prepare the sun-dried tomatoes and garlic mixture ahead. When ready, combine everything and finish cooking the sauce to serve quickly and fresh.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is truly a winner guaranteed to bring joy to any mealtime. Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with savory sun-dried tomato flavor, it offers a gourmet experience without complicated techniques. I encourage you to give this recipe a try soon—your taste buds will thank you, and you might just find yourself making it over and over again!

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