Easy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe with Marinara Sauce

When you’re craving a hug in a bowl, nothing beats a hearty Chicken Mozzarella Pasta. Imagine the delightful blend of creamy mozzarella and seasoned chicken, all nestled in a warm, inviting marinara sauce. This dish not only satisfies the stomach but also warms the heart, making it a perfect comfort food for any day.

Picture this: it’s a rainy evening, and the aroma of garlic and chicken fills your kitchen, evoking memories of family dinners around the table. This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta will be a new classic in your household, ready to bring everyone together and chase away those rainy-day blues.

Ingredients for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Chicken Mozzarella Pasta:

1 lb. Penne or Rigatoni – Choose your favorite pasta shape to soak up all that delicious sauce.
2 Tbsp. Olive Oil – A good quality olive oil adds healthy fats and flavor; drizzle some extra for serving.
2 whole Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – Cut into small bite-sized pieces for quicker cooking and easier eating.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning the chicken to bring out its natural flavors.
1 whole Large Onion – Finely diced to add sweetness and depth to the sauce.
2 cloves Garlic – Minced to infuse your dish with fragrant goodness.
1 jar (25 Ounce) Good Quality Marinara Sauce – Choose a flavorful marinara that elevates the entire dish.
1/2 tsp. Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Add a little heat to your sauce; adjust to your spice preference.
1/2 cup Water – Helps bring everything together and thins out the sauce just a bit.
2 Tbsp. Minced Fresh Parsley – This bright herb adds freshness with every bite.
8 oz. weight Fresh Mozzarella – Cut into medium cubes; it will melt beautifully into the sauce.
1/4 cup Parmesan Shavings – For that extra umami kick and a touch of sophistication.
Extra Parmesan – Always a good idea to have on hand for serving.
12 whole Basil Leaves – Chiffonade for a vibrant touch and aromatic complexity in the dish.

How to Make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Chicken Mozzarella Pasta:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking your choice of penne or rigatoni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water just in case you need to adjust the sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer, season them with salt and pepper, and let them cook undisturbed for about two minutes until golden brown. Stir the chicken to brown it on all sides before removing it to a plate.

Step 3: Prepare the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the finely diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn a deep golden color. The kitchen will smell amazing at this point, so deep breaths are encouraged.

Step 4: Create the Sauce
Now, reduce the heat to low and pour in the marinara sauce along with the red pepper flakes and water. Stir this fragrant mix until the onions and garlic are fully combined, and then add the chicken back into the skillet.

Step 5: Simmer and Stir
Add the minced parsley to the skillet. Stir it all together and let the mixture simmer for about 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is where the flavors meld and develop—the anticipation grows!

Step 6: Finish with Cheese
Make sure your sauce is bubbly hot before you gently stir in the cubes of fresh mozzarella. Allow the dish to sit undisturbed for about 2 to 3 minutes, just enough time for the mozzarella to get ooey-gooey and irresistible.

Serve your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta with a generous grating of Parmesan on top and sprinkle with fresh basil leaves. You might want to keep a fork handy because you will want to dig in immediately. Enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite!

Perfecting Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken for maximum flavor and texture. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Prepare the sauce with onions and garlic, then combine everything seamlessly for a flavorful outcome.

Add Your Touch to Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Feel free to swap in different pasta shapes, like fettuccine or farfalle. Add veggies such as spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition, or try different cheeses like provolone or goat cheese for unique flavor profiles.

Storing & Reheating Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water for moisture retention.

I remember the first time I served Chicken Mozzarella Pasta to friends at a dinner party. Their delighted expressions as they took the first bite were priceless, and hearing them rave about the flavors made my heart swell with joy.

FAQs About Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

What is Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?

Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a delightful dish combining tender chicken breast, penne or rigatoni pasta, and gooey mozzarella cheese, all enveloped in a rich marinara sauce. It’s a beloved recipe that captures the essence of Italian comfort food, packed with flavor and heavenly textures. This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, providing a satisfying meal that is easy to prepare. The combination of the creamy mozzarella and savory sauce creates a truly irresistible experience.

How long does it take to make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?

Preparing Chicken Mozzarella Pasta generally takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on your kitchen skills and efficiency. You’ll need to allocate time for boiling the pasta, cooking the chicken, and simmering the sauce. The entire process is straightforward and allows you to whip up a delicious meal even on a busy weeknight.

Can Chicken Mozzarella Pasta be made in advance?

Yes, Chicken Mozzarella Pasta can be prepared in advance! You can cook the pasta and sauce separately, then combine them right before serving to keep the dish fresh. Leftovers can also be refrigerated for up to three days, making it an ideal option for meal prep or busy weeks. Just remember to store the pasta separately from the sauce if you want to maintain optimal flavor and texture.

What can I serve with Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?

You can enhance your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta meal with a variety of side dishes. A simple salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully. Garlic bread is also a classic companion, providing a crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta. If you want an extra veggie boost, consider serving roasted vegetables or sautéed spinach alongside this delicious dish.

Conclusion for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

In summary, Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a heartwarming, flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation time, it’s an excellent choice for families and dinner parties alike. The combination of tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and melting mozzarella creates a delicious experience that will surely leave everyone craving for more. So go ahead and make this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta, and enjoy a comforting meal that brings smiles all around the table.

Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is an easy, delicious dish featuring tender chicken and melty mozzarella in a rich marinara sauce.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 600

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

Pasta & Protein

• 1 lb Penne or Rigatoni
• 2 Tbsp Olive Oil plus more for drizzling
• 2 whole Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts cut into small bite-sized pieces
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Sauce & Flavorings

• 1 whole Large Onion finely diced
• 2 cloves Garlic minced
• 25 oz Good Quality Marinara Sauce approximately one jar
• 1/2 tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes more to taste
• 1/2 cup Water
• 2 Tbsp Minced Fresh Parsley

Cheese & Garnishes

• 8 oz Fresh Mozzarella cut into medium cubes
• 1/4 cup Parmesan Shavings
• Extra Parmesan for serving
• 12 whole Basil Leaves chiffonade

Equipment

• skillet
• pot

Method

 

Preparation

1. Cook pasta according to package directions.
2. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces in a single layer and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Allow to cook without stirring for 2 minutes, or until golden.
3. Stir chicken around to brown on all sides. Remove to a plate.
4. In the same skillet over medium-high heat, add the onions and garlic and stir immediately to start cooking.
5. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deep golden.
6. Reduce the heat to low and pour in the marinara sauce, red pepper flakes, and water. Stir until onions and garlic are mixed in, then add chicken back into the pan.
7. Add parsley, stir to combine, then allow to simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 7-8 minutes.
8. Make sure the sauce is bubbly and very hot, then gently stir in the mozzarella.
9. Let it sit, undisturbed, for 2 to 3 minutes, until you can see that the mozzarella is very soft.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Feel free to customize with different pasta shapes or veggies. Let the dish rest before serving to enhance flavors.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!