Introduction
Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a rich, cheesy, and comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and gooey melted mozzarella in a flavorful sauce. It’s a weeknight favorite that delivers restaurant-quality taste in under an hour—ideal for family dinners, cozy gatherings, or satisfying pasta cravings.
—
Origin and Cultural Significance
This dish is a beautiful fusion of Italian and American comfort food traditions. Drawing inspiration from classic Italian chicken and pasta recipes—like Chicken Parmesan or baked ziti—it uses familiar ingredients such as mozzarella, paprika-seasoned chicken, and pasta, adapted for the modern home kitchen. It’s a testament to how global flavors come together to create universally beloved meals.
—
Ingredients Quantity (Serves 4)
For the Chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced thinly)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika
1 tbsp olive oil
For the Pasta & Sauce:
8 oz (225 g) penne or fusilli pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
½ cup tomato sauce or marinara
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp dried basil
½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
—
Optional Additions
½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half for a creamier sauce
1 cup spinach or kale, stirred in at the end
½ cup sautéed mushrooms or zucchini
A handful of sun-dried tomatoes
Swap pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free options
Add a splash of white wine for depth in the sauce
—
Tips for Success
Slice chicken evenly to ensure quick, uniform cooking.
Cook pasta al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when mixed with the sauce.
Use fresh garlic and herbs for deeper flavor.
Don’t skimp on the mozzarella—it’s the star of the dish.
Broil briefly at the end if baking to get a bubbly, golden cheese top.
—
Instructions
1. Cook the pasta: Boil in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Season and cook chicken: In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook over medium heat until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the sauce: In the same pan, add 2 tbsp olive oil. Sauté garlic until fragrant. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and chili flakes. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
4. Combine: Return chicken to the pan, add drained pasta, and toss to coat. Stir in half the mozzarella and Parmesan.
5. Bake (optional): Transfer to a baking dish, top with remaining cheese, and broil for 3–5 minutes until bubbly and golden.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot.
—
Description
This dish features fork-tender chicken nestled in a tomato-rich sauce, infused with herbs and garlic, and enveloped in stretchy mozzarella cheese. The pasta soaks up the flavorful sauce, while the melted cheese binds it all together in a creamy, savory finish.
—
Nutritional Information (Per serving, approximate)
Calories: 520
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 24g (Saturated fat: 9g)
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 680mg
Varies based on cheese and sauce used.
—
Conclusion
Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a crowd-pleasing, satisfying meal that brings warmth and flavor to the table. It’s easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough to serve to guests—especially with that golden layer of gooey cheese on top.
—
Recommendation
Serve with a green salad or garlic bread. For a complete meal, add roasted vegetables or a glass of dry red wine. Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it a great make-ahead meal.
—
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To lighten the dish, use whole wheat pasta, part-skim mozzarella, and add leafy greens like spinach or kale. You can also use grilled chicken or turkey breast. These tweaks maintain the indulgent flavor while boosting nutrition and fiber.