Description
Indulge in this rich and creamy mozzarella chicken pasta, featuring tender chicken, melty mozzarella, and a touch of Parmesan in a garlic-infused, herb-seasoned sauce. This quick and comforting pasta dish is ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
For the Pasta & Sauce:
- 12 ounces penne or fettuccine pasta
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon flour (optional, for a thicker sauce)
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
. Cook the Pasta
- Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic, cooking for 30 seconds.
- Sprinkle in flour (if using) and whisk for 1 minute to create a light roux.
- Slowly pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, whisking until melted and creamy. Add red pepper flakes if using.
4. Combine & Serve
- Return cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet, tossing everything in the creamy sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy!
Notes
- For extra flavor, add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Want a lighter option? Use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Pasta, Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
