Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Posted by by Sara 1 year Ago 547 Views

Ingredients:

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz penne, spaghetti, or your favorite pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine for extra flavor)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Boil the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning (if using).
  2. Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a couple of minutes, then slice it into strips or cubes.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

  1. Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  2. Deglaze with chicken broth: Pour in the chicken broth (or white wine) and use a spatula to scrape any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
  3. Add the cream and cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens. Then, add the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Chicken

  1. Add the pasta: Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed to thin the sauce to your desired consistency. Stir until the pasta is well coated.
  2. Add the chicken: Add the sliced or cubed chicken into the pasta and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat everything through.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Garnish and serve: Top with extra mozzarella cheese and fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips:

  • Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Vegetarian option: Omit the chicken and add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for a vegetarian version.
  • Meal prep: This dish is great for meal prep! Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of cream or chicken broth.
  • Add a crispy texture: For extra crunch, top the pasta with crispy breadcrumbs before serving.

Nutrition (Per Serving – 1/4 of the recipe):

  • Calories: 550-600 kcal
  • Protein: 38g
  • Fat: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 750mg