I’ll never forget the Sunday dinners at my grandma’s house. The aroma of garlic, tomatoes, and herbs would fill the air, creating a sense of warmth and comfort that’s hard to describe. While she had many amazing dishes, the one that always stood out was her version of chicken pasta. It wasn’t just a meal; it was a hug on a plate. Over the years, I’ve tweaked and simplified her recipe, and now I’m thrilled to share my version of an Easy Italian Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe with you. Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing Easy Italian Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe you’ll ever make!
Why You’ll Absolutely LOVE This Easy Italian Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe
Okay, friend, let’s be real: weeknights are hectic! Between work, kids, errands, and everything else life throws our way, the last thing we want is to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s why this recipe is a lifesaver! It’s quick, it’s easy, it uses simple ingredients, and most importantly, it’s incredibly delicious. We’re talking about tender chicken, flavorful tomato sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and gooey, melted mozzarella cheese. What’s not to love?!
But here’s the best part: this recipe is adaptable. Don’t have mozzarella? Use provolone or even a shredded Italian blend. Prefer a different type of pasta? Go for it! This is your kitchen, and you’re the chef. I’m just here to guide you along the way and help you create a meal that your family will rave about.
What You’ll Need: Your Ingredient Checklist
Let’s gather our ingredients. I always find that having everything prepped and ready to go makes the cooking process so much smoother and less stressful. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken Breasts: About 1.5 pounds, boneless and skinless. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Pasta: 1 pound of your favorite pasta shape. Penne, rotini, fusilli, or even spaghetti all work great. I personally love using penne because it holds the sauce beautifully.
- Tomato Sauce: 24-28 ounces. You can use your favorite store-bought sauce or, if you’re feeling ambitious, make your own!
- Mozzarella Cheese: 8 ounces, shredded. Fresh mozzarella is amazing if you have it, but pre-shredded works just as well for a quick weeknight meal.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped.
- Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced. Don’t be shy with the garlic!
- Italian Seasoning: 2 teaspoons. This is the secret ingredient that gives the dish that classic Italian flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional, for a little kick).
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- Fresh Basil: For garnish (optional, but highly recommended!).
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
Okay, let’s talk substitutions! Because sometimes, you just don’t have everything on hand, and that’s perfectly fine. Here are a few ideas:
- Chicken: As I mentioned before, chicken thighs work great in this recipe. You can also use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time. Just shred it and add it to the sauce.
- Pasta: Feel free to use any type of pasta you like. Gluten-free pasta is also a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
- Tomato Sauce: If you don’t have tomato sauce, you can use crushed tomatoes or even tomato paste diluted with water. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly.
- Cheese: Provolone, Parmesan, or a shredded Italian blend are all great substitutes for mozzarella.
- Vegetables: Add your favorite vegetables to the sauce! Bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach would all be delicious.
- Spice Level: Control the heat by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes. If you’re not a fan of spice, simply omit them.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Let’s Get Cooking!
Alright, friend, let’s get cooking! I’m going to walk you through each step, so don’t worry if you’re a beginner. I’ve got your back!
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Remember to reserve about ½ cup of pasta water—you might need it later to adjust the sauce consistency.
- Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the chicken. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Sauté the Chicken: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add another tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Add the Tomato Sauce: Pour the tomato sauce into the skillet. Bring it to a simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld together.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss everything together until it’s well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Add the Mozzarella Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta. Cover the skillet and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil (if using) and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken
Chicken can be tricky sometimes, right? Here are a few tips to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked every time:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature and cause the chicken to steam instead of brown. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to ensure your chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should be 165°F (74°C).
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Remove the chicken from the skillet as soon as it’s cooked through.
Tips for the Best Pasta Sauce
The sauce is the heart of this dish, so let’s make sure it’s amazing! Here are a few tips:
- Simmer the Sauce: Simmering the sauce for at least 10-15 minutes will allow the flavors to meld together and create a richer, more complex flavor.
- Season to Taste: Don’t be afraid to season the sauce generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Taste it and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Add a Pinch of Sugar: A pinch of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs will add a burst of flavor to the sauce. Basil, oregano, and parsley are all great options.
Serving Suggestions: Complete Your Meal
This Easy Italian Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, here are a few serving suggestions:
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to this pasta dish.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing will add some freshness and balance to the meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts would be a delicious and healthy addition.
- Wine Pairing: A light-bodied red wine like Chianti or Pinot Noir would pair well with this dish.
Other Delicious Pasta Recipes to Try
If you’re a pasta lover like me, you’re always looking for new and exciting recipes to try! Here are a few of my other favorite pasta recipes:
- Looking for a refreshing salad that is also filling? Try this Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad. It’s perfect for summer!
- For another incredible pasta salad option, check out my CAPRESE PASTA SALAD. It’s like summer in a bowl!
- If you love a sweet and savory combination, you have to try my HONEY PEPPER CHICKEN PASTA. It’s a flavor explosion!
- Craving something with a citrusy twist? My SLOW COOKER LEMON CHICKEN is a must-try. It’s so easy and flavorful!
- For a comforting casserole, give my Forgotten Chicken and Rice Casserole a try. It’s perfect for a cozy night in.
- Feeling a little spicy? You’ll adore my Spicy Chicken Rigatoni – full of flavor!
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Storage: Store the leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the pasta in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat. Add a little water or tomato sauce if it seems dry.
Final Thoughts: Your Kitchen Adventure Awaits!
There you have it, friend! Your guide to making the most amazing Easy Italian Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe. I hope you feel inspired and confident to give this recipe a try. Remember, cooking should be fun and enjoyable, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Trust your instincts, and don’t worry if you make a mistake along the way. That’s how we learn! So gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to create a delicious and memorable meal for you and your loved ones. Happy cooking!
What kind of pasta works best for this Easy Italian Chicken Mozzarella Pasta recipe?
The recipe suggests using penne, rotini, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Penne is preferred because it holds the sauce well, but feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.
Can I substitute any of the ingredients in this recipe?
Yes! The recipe encourages substitutions. Chicken thighs or rotisserie chicken can replace chicken breasts. Provolone, Parmesan, or an Italian blend can replace mozzarella. Crushed tomatoes or tomato paste can substitute for tomato sauce. You can also add your favorite vegetables.
How do I store and reheat leftover chicken mozzarella pasta?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little water or tomato sauce if it seems dry.
What are some tips for cooking the chicken perfectly?
Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Don’t overcook the chicken to prevent it from becoming dry and tough.
Easy Cheesy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour the tomato sauce into the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss until well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta. Cover the skillet and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil (if using) and serve immediately.
