Description
Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of Chicken Mozzarella Pasta! This easy recipe combines tender chicken, a rich tomato cream sauce, and melty mozzarella cheese with perfectly cooked penne. Get the full recipe and enjoy this comforting Italian-inspired dish
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.
- Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.
Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, or until the garlic is fragrant.
- Add the red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and chicken broth.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened.
Combine the Pasta and Chicken
- Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Stir to combine and coat the pasta and chicken with the sauce.
Add the Cheese
- Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
- Add the chopped basil and stir to incorporate.
Serve
- Remove from heat and garnish with additional chopped basil and parsley, if desired.
- Serve immediately while warm.