Description
This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a restaurant-quality dish you can make at home in just 30 minutes! Juicy pan-seared chicken, chewy sun-dried tomatoes, and al dente penne pasta are coated in a rich, garlicky mozzarella cream sauce with a hint of spice. Perfect for weeknights or a cozy Italian-style dinner, this dish is guaranteed to impress!
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
✔️ Busy home cooks looking for a quick yet delicious meal
✔️ Pasta lovers who enjoy creamy, cheesy sauces
✔️ Fans of Italian flavors with a slight kick
✔️ Anyone who wants a one-pan, family-friendly dinner
Why It’s Great
✅ Fast & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes with simple steps.
✅ Rich & Flavorful: Creamy mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic create an unforgettable taste.
✅ One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup, more deliciousness!
✅ Customizable: Adjust the spice level, add veggies, or swap proteins as needed.
Ingredients
For the Pasta & Chicken:
-
8 oz penne pasta
-
1 lb chicken tenderloins, sliced
-
¼ tsp each salt & paprika
For the Sauce:
-
3 garlic cloves, minced
-
4 oz sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
-
2 tbsp olive oil
-
1 cup half-and-half (or ½ cup heavy cream + ½ cup milk)
-
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
-
1 tbsp dried basil
-
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
-
¼ tsp salt (plus more to taste)
-
½ cup reserved pasta cooking water
Kitchen Equipment Needed
✔️ Large skillet
✔️ Pot for boiling pasta
✔️ Mixing spoon & whisk
✔️ Knife & cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
-
Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente.
-
Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
-
Season the sliced chicken tenderloins with salt and paprika.
-
In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat.
-
Sear the chicken for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
-
In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil, minced garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Remove tomatoes and set aside.
-
Pour in the half-and-half (or cream/milk combo) and bring to a gentle simmer.
-
Remove from heat and whisk in the shredded mozzarella until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine & Serve
-
Add basil, red pepper flakes, cooked pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and chicken back to the skillet.
-
Toss everything together, ensuring the sauce coats the pasta and chicken evenly.
-
If the sauce is too thick, stir in a few splashes of the reserved pasta water until it reaches a silky consistency.
-
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or red pepper flakes if needed.
-
Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve hot!
Storage & Reheating
-
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
-
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
-
Freezing: This dish isn’t ideal for freezing, as the creamy sauce may separate when reheated.
FAQ
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Fettuccine, rigatoni, or bowtie pasta all work great in this dish.
2. Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely! Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
3. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
Yes! Fresh cherry or Roma tomatoes work, but sun-dried tomatoes provide a more intense flavor.
4. What can I serve with this pasta?
Pair it with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal!
Conclusion
This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors with a touch of spice. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner, meal prep, or a special date night, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try, and bring restaurant-style Italian flavors to your home kitchen
