Print

Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 59 reviews

This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a creamy, flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender chicken breasts, al dente penne pasta, and a rich tomato and cream sauce loaded with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Infused with garlic, fresh basil, and an optional kick from red pepper flakes, this easy-to-make dish delivers comforting Italian-inspired flavors perfect for a family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

Pasta

  • 8 ounces penne pasta

Sauce and Cheese

  • 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
  • 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

  1. Cook the Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to prepare the other components.
  2. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper evenly on both sides. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through and no longer pink inside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.
  3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until aromatic. Add the red pepper flakes if using and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Stir in the diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
  4. Combine the Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked penne pasta and sliced chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Stir everything together carefully to coat the pasta and chicken evenly with the creamy tomato sauce.
  5. Add the Cheese: Fold in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses until melted and fully combined into the sauce. Then stir in the chopped fresh basil for a burst of herbal freshness.
  6. Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the dish with additional chopped basil and parsley if desired. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • For spice lovers, the red pepper flakes add a mild heat but can be omitted for a milder dish.
  • Use fresh basil when possible for brighter flavor, but dried basil works well in a pinch.
  • Letting the chicken rest before slicing helps retain its juiciness.
  • Feel free to substitute penne with other pasta such as rigatoni or fusilli.
  • To make this recipe lighter, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich.

Keywords: Chicken pasta, Mozzarella pasta, Creamy chicken pasta, Italian chicken pasta, Penne pasta recipe

Find it online: https://servedbynora.com/chicken-mozzarella-pasta-recipe/