If you’re looking for a cozy and delightful meal that’s sure to impress, let me introduce you to my creamy chicken mozzarella pasta! This dish is an absolute favorite in my home, and trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a staple in yours too. The richness of the mozzarella combined with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta creates a comforting hug in a bowl. I remember the first time I made this for my family; the smiles on their faces were priceless! It’s incredibly quick and easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a special gathering. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into the creamy goodness of chicken mozzarella pasta!
Ingredients List
To make my creamy chicken mozzarella pasta, you’ll need these simple yet delicious ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating that dreamy, rich flavor that you’ll love!
- 2 cups cooked pasta: You can use any pasta you like—penne, fusilli, or spaghetti all work wonderfully!
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded: I usually use rotisserie chicken for convenience, but feel free to grill or bake your own!
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: The star of the show! Fresh mozzarella gives a lovely melt, but pre-shredded works too.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: This adds that luscious creaminess that makes the dish feel so indulgent.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor to balance the richness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings an aromatic punch that elevates the dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the garlic and chicken, adding a nice depth of flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Always essential for bringing out the flavors!
- Fresh basil for garnish: This is optional, but trust me, it brightens up the dish and adds a beautiful touch.
How to Prepare Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
Now let’s get into the fun part—preparing your creamy chicken mozzarella pasta! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Trust me, it’s easier than you think!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Usually, this takes about 8-10 minutes. Don’t forget to salt your water to enhance the flavor!
- While the pasta’s cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once it’s hot, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute until fragrant—oh, you’ll love that smell!
- Add the shredded chicken to the skillet and stir it around until it’s heated through, about 3-4 minutes. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, this step is super quick!
- Now, pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This should take just a minute or two. You’ll see it starting to thicken up—yum!
- Next, add in both the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy. This is where the magic happens!
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, taste as you go—it’s your dish, after all!
- Finally, toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, coating it evenly with that luscious sauce. Give it a good mix for about a minute to let everything come together.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if you like, and get ready for compliments!
Nutritional Information
It’s important to note that the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just estimates. For each serving of my creamy chicken mozzarella pasta, you can expect about 450 calories, with a healthy dose of protein and fats to keep you satisfied. Enjoy with moderation in mind!
Tips for Success
To make your creamy chicken mozzarella pasta truly shine, here are a few pro tips I’ve picked up over the years. First, make sure your pasta is cooked al dente; it’ll continue to cook a bit in the sauce, and you want that perfect bite! Also, using fresh mozzarella can elevate the dish to another level—its meltiness is divine! If you want to add a little zing, don’t hesitate to sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic. And remember, don’t rush the melting of the cheese; let it take its time to create that beautiful creamy sauce. Lastly, always taste as you go—seasoning is key! These little touches will help ensure your chicken mozzarella pasta is a hit every time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich, creamy sauce that’s utterly satisfying and delicious.
- Uses simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.
- Versatile; feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or spices!
- Great for meal prep; leftovers are just as tasty the next day.
- Kid-friendly, making it a hit with the whole family.
- Comfort food that feels indulgent without being complicated.
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up your creamy chicken mozzarella pasta! One of my favorites is to add some fresh spinach or kale—just toss it in during the last minute of cooking for a vibrant, nutrient-packed boost. You can also experiment with different herbs; basil and oregano work beautifully, or try some fresh thyme for a lovely earthy flavor. If you want to kick up the heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of cayenne pepper while you sauté the garlic. For a twist on the cheese, consider mixing in some goat cheese or a bit of ricotta for extra creaminess. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative and make this dish your own!
Serving Suggestions
To make your creamy chicken mozzarella pasta a complete meal, consider pairing it with a fresh side salad. A simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta beautifully. You could also serve some garlic bread on the side—who doesn’t love that crunchy, buttery goodness to soak up any leftover sauce? If you’re in the mood for a little something extra, roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers add a delightful touch. For beverages, a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, or a sparkling water with a slice of lemon can really elevate your dining experience. Enjoy your meal!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you have any leftovers of this creamy chicken mozzarella pasta (which is rare in my house!), you’ll want to store it properly to keep that delicious flavor intact. Let the pasta cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to help loosen the sauce. Stir it gently until warmed through. You can also use the microwave, just be sure to cover it to prevent drying out. Enjoy every last bite!
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Chicken Mozzarella Pasta: 7 Ways to Indulge Tonight
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy and delicious chicken mozzarella pasta dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add shredded chicken and cook until heated through.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Add mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Toss pasta in the sauce until well coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Notes
- Use any type of pasta you prefer.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: chicken mozzarella pasta, creamy pasta, chicken pasta recipe
