Introduction
Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a comforting Italian-inspired dish that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, creamy mozzarella sauce. It’s ideal for family dinners or cozy nights when you want something satisfying yet easy to prepare. The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it a crowd-pleaser that tastes like something straight from a restaurant.
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Ingredients
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
10 oz (280 g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni)
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Sauté until golden brown and fully cooked through (about 6–8 minutes). Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Add Cheese:
Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
5. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked chicken and pasta back into the skillet. Toss well to coat in the creamy sauce.
6. Serve:
Garnish with chopped basil or parsley. Serve hot.
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Description
This pasta dish is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors. The mozzarella adds a gooey, stretchy texture, while the Parmesan enhances the depth of flavor. The sauce clings beautifully to the pasta, making every bite satisfying. It’s rich but balanced with herbs and a hint of garlic.
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Tips
Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and texture—pre-shredded cheese may contain anti-caking agents that affect creaminess.
Don’t overcook the pasta—it will continue to absorb sauce after mixing.
Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
For extra creaminess, add a tablespoon of cream cheese or mascarpone to the sauce.
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Variations
Spicy version: Add more red pepper flakes or a touch of cayenne.
Bacon twist: Add crispy bacon bits for a smoky flavor.
Low-carb option: Substitute zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for pasta.
Herb upgrade: Use fresh basil, oregano, or thyme instead of dried seasoning for a more aromatic touch.
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Correction
If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in a splash of warm milk or chicken broth to loosen it.
If it’s too thin, simmer a bit longer or add more cheese to reach the desired consistency.
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Enjoy
Serve immediately while hot and creamy. Pair with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Every forkful is a comforting, cheesy bite of Italian-inspired goodness!