If you're looking for a delightful and easy-to-make dish that will have everyone asking for seconds, this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta recipe is exactly what you need! This hearty, flavorful pasta combines tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella to create a dish that's both comforting and delicious. Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a weekend gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Read on to discover everything you need to know about cooking the perfect Chicken Mozzarella Pasta—from the ingredients you'll need to step-by-step instructions, plus tips for serving and presenting it beautifully.

What is Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?
Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that combines tender, cooked chicken with a rich tomato-based marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. It's an Italian-American favorite that balances hearty protein, savory pasta, and luscious cheese in every bite. This dish is a complete meal in itself, providing carbohydrates, protein, and fats for a balanced plate of comfort food that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you love classic Italian flavors or need a quick and satisfying meal, this recipe has got you covered.
Ingredients List for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
Before you begin cooking, it's essential to have all your ingredients prepped and ready. Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful Chicken Mozzarella Pasta recipe:
- Chicken Breasts (boneless, skinless) – 2 large pieces, cubed
- Pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli) – 12 oz (340g)
- Mozzarella Cheese (shredded or sliced) – 2 cups
- Marinara Sauce – 2 cups
- Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- Onion – 1 small, finely chopped
- Dried Oregano – 1 teaspoon
- Dried Basil – 1 teaspoon
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – ½ teaspoon
- Parmesan Cheese (grated) – ½ cup (for topping)
- Fresh Basil Leaves (for garnish) – a handful
- Salt and Pepper – to taste
These ingredients will help you create a delicious, gooey, and savory pasta dish that everyone will enjoy.
Substitutions and Variations
Cooking should be fun and adaptable to your preferences, so feel free to adjust this recipe to suit your needs. Here are a few substitution ideas and variations to consider:
- Protein Substitutes: If you're not a fan of chicken, you can replace it with turkey, ground beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Grilled shrimp would also work well as a substitute.
- Pasta Options: While penne or rigatoni is ideal for this recipe, feel free to use whatever pasta you have on hand. Spaghetti, fettuccine, or even whole wheat pasta can work well.
- Cheese Substitutes: If you're out of mozzarella, you can use provolone, cheddar, or even a blend of Italian cheeses. For a lighter option, try using part-skim mozzarella.
- Vegetable Variations: Want to add some extra veggies? Toss in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
- Gluten-Free Option: You can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Creamy Tomato Sauce: For an extra creamy texture, stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream or mascarpone into the marinara sauce before combining it with the pasta.
These substitutions and variations will allow you to customize the recipe while still maintaining the integrity of the dish.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients, it's time to get cooking! Follow these easy steps to create your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes around 10-12 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, but reserve ½ cup of pasta water for later in case you need to adjust the consistency of your sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the cubed chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of oregano. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if necessary, and sauté the chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Once the sauce has simmered, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to coat it in the sauce. Add the drained pasta to the skillet as well, mixing everything together so that the sauce evenly coats the pasta and chicken.
Step 6: Add Mozzarella Cheese
Turn off the heat and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the pasta and chicken. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese melts and becomes gooey. You can also place the skillet under the broiler for a couple of minutes to get a golden, bubbly top.
How to Cook Chicken Mozzarella Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is an enjoyable and straightforward process, especially if you follow the above steps. However, there are a few extra tips that will help you achieve perfection with this recipe:
- Ensure the Chicken is Well-Seasoned: Before cooking the chicken, make sure it’s generously seasoned with salt, pepper, and herbs. This adds depth of flavor to the entire dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: It’s important to cook the pasta to al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and won’t hold up as well when combined with the sauce and chicken.
- Balance the Sauce: If your sauce seems too thick after adding the chicken and pasta, use a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. This will help the sauce coat everything more evenly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes you can avoid to make sure your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta turns out perfectly:
- Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken can dry out quickly if overcooked. Keep an eye on it and cook it just until it’s no longer pink in the center.
- Not Using Enough Cheese: One of the highlights of this dish is the gooey mozzarella. Don’t be shy with the cheese—adding enough will give you that satisfying cheesy pull with every bite.
- Forgetting to Season Your Pasta Water: Always add salt to your pasta water. This ensures that the pasta itself is well-seasoned, which will make the overall dish taste even better.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation is key when it comes to serving this dish. Here are some tips for making your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta look as good as it tastes:
How to Serve Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
- Serve Hot: This dish is best enjoyed hot when the cheese is still melted and gooey.
- Garnish with Fresh Basil: Add a few fresh basil leaves on top for a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
- Top with Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan adds a savory, salty kick that complements the melted mozzarella.
Presentation Ideas for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
- Individual Serving Bowls: Serve the pasta in individual bowls or plates with an extra sprinkle of mozzarella or Parmesan cheese.
- Cast Iron Skillet: If you used a cast iron skillet for cooking, serve the pasta directly from the skillet for a rustic and hearty presentation.
- Add Color: A side salad with bright greens or roasted vegetables can add visual appeal and balance out the richness of the pasta.
Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then simply cook the pasta and assemble the dish when you’re ready to serve.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven, adding a little water or extra sauce if needed.
- Double the Recipe: If you’re cooking for a crowd or want leftovers, you can easily double this recipe without any adjustments to cooking time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce in advance. Store them in the fridge for up to two days, and combine them with freshly cooked pasta when you're ready to serve.
What kind of pasta works best for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?
Short, sturdy pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli works best as it holds the sauce and cheese well.
Can I freeze Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?
While the pasta may become a bit softer after freezing, this dish can be frozen. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months, and reheat in the oven for best results.
How can I make the dish spicier?
You can add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicier kick.
Conclusion
Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a perfect balance of tender chicken, gooey mozzarella, and rich tomato sauce combined with hearty pasta for an unbeatable comfort meal. Whether you're cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit. With easy substitutions and endless variations, you can customize this dish to your liking, and with the helpful tips provided, you’ll be able to avoid common mistakes and serve a restaurant-quality meal right from your kitchen. Enjoy!
PrintChicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe
This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta recipe brings together tender chicken breast, creamy mozzarella, and perfectly cooked pasta in a flavorful sauce. With simple ingredients, this quick and delicious meal is perfect for weeknights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Chicken breast
- Mozzarella cheese
- Pasta (your choice)
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Tomato sauce
- Basil
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil and cook garlic until fragrant.
- Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
- Stir in tomato sauce and basil, simmering for 5 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta and mozzarella, stirring until the cheese melts.
- Serve warm and garnish with extra basil or cheese if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like parmesan or cheddar.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor.
Details:
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
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