Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta: 5 Reasons to Love It

Oh, let me tell you about the magic of pasta! There’s just something about a rich, creamy dish that makes my heart sing, and *Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta* is one of my all-time favorites. Imagine tender chicken enveloped in a luscious, cheesy sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked penne. It’s comfort food at its finest! I remember the first time I made this dish; the aroma filled my kitchen and had everyone flocking to the table. Cooking Italian cuisine has always felt like a warm hug for me, and this recipe is no exception. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Ingredients List

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups penne pasta (cooked according to package instructions)
• 1 pound chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded for easy melting
• 1 cup heavy cream (for that rich and creamy texture)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing the chicken)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better!)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (to bring that authentic flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste (don’t forget to season!)
• Fresh basil for garnish (adds a pop of color and freshness)

How to Prepare Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

First things first, let’s get that pasta going! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add in 2 cups of penne pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes, until it’s al dente. Trust me, you don’t want it mushy! Once it’s done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. We’ll be mixing it with that creamy goodness soon!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Now, grab your trusty skillet! Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add in your diced chicken breast. Cook it for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and cooked through. Make sure there’s no pink left in the middle—nobody wants to bite into undercooked chicken!

Step 3: Add Flavor

Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, it’s time to jazz things up! Toss in 3 cloves of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Cook this mixture for about a minute, just until that garlic starts to become fragrant. Oh, the smell is heavenly! This is where the magic begins.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Next, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir it well while you go, and then add in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes luscious and creamy. You’ll want to dive right in, but hold on!

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Now, here comes the fun part! Add the drained penne pasta into the skillet with that beautiful sauce. Mix everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in that creamy goodness. Season it with salt and pepper to your taste. Make it your own!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finally, it’s time to plate up! Garnish with fresh basil leaves for that pop of color and a hint of freshness. Serve immediately while it’s still warm and creamy. Trust me, your family and friends will be begging for seconds!

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk numbers! This *Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta* recipe yields about 4 servings, with each serving coming in at roughly 600 calories. You’ll get around 30 grams of fat, 35 grams of protein, and 60 grams of carbohydrates. Keep in mind, these values are estimates based on the ingredients I’ve used, so they might vary a bit. But hey, it’s all about delicious comfort food, right?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich, creamy flavor that’s utterly satisfying.
• Uses simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have.
• Can be made in just 30 minutes from start to finish.
• A crowd-pleaser that kids and adults alike will adore.
• Versatile enough to add in your favorite veggies or proteins!

Tips for Success

To elevate your *Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta*, make sure not to rush the cooking process. Sauté the chicken until it’s golden brown for added flavor, and don’t skimp on the garlic—fresh is best! If you want an even creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of pasta water before mixing in the cheese. And remember, seasoning is key! Taste as you go to find that perfect balance. Enjoy every bite!

Variations

One of the best things about *Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta* is how easily you can customize it! Want to sneak in some veggies? Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or some sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping the penne for fusilli or farfalle—those little pasta shapes add a fun twist! You can even experiment with different cheeses; gouda or fontina would create a delightful variation. The possibilities are endless!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

If you have any leftovers (which is rare, but hey, it happens!), let them cool completely before storing. Place the *Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta* in an airtight container in the fridge, where it’ll keep 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 cream or pasta water to bring back that creamy texture. Stir it gently until warmed through, and you’re all set!

Serving Suggestions

To make your meal truly special, consider serving *Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta* with a crisp, refreshing side salad. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a nice contrast to the richness of the pasta. If you’re in the mood for something warm, garlic bread or a cheesy focaccia is always a hit! And don’t forget a glass of your favorite white wine, like a chilled Pinot Grigio, to complement those creamy flavors perfectly. Enjoy!

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