1. Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, and then slice it into thin strips.
2. Cook the Pasta:
While the chicken is cooking, 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, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, add the flour and stir to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes before adding the liquids.
Pour in the heavy cream, milk, and chicken broth. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes to thicken slightly.
Add the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring constantly until both cheeses melt completely and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) for an extra kick.
4. Combine and Serve:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce and toss to coat evenly. Add the sliced chicken on top and mix gently.
Let the pasta sit in the sauce for 1-2 minutes to absorb the flavors. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Tip: Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is best served hot and fresh. Pair it with a crisp green salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, for the perfect pairing.
Storing: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove with a little extra cream to bring back the creamy texture.
Variants:
Vegetarian Option: For a meatless version, substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. You can also add some extra cheese to give it a more indulgent flavor.
Spicy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta: For those who love a little heat, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce. You can also marinate the chicken in spicy seasoning or Cajun spice before cooking for an extra kick.
Garlic and Herb Chicken Mozzarella Pasta: Add more herbs to the sauce like fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary for a fragrant, herby twist. This version works especially well if you’re using grilled chicken.
FAQ:
Can I use a different kind of cheese? Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like provolone, gouda, or cheddar for different flavors. However, mozzarella gives the dish its signature stretch and creaminess.
Can I use boneless thighs instead of chicken breasts? Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs can be used in place of breasts. They tend to be juicier and have more flavor, so they will add a slightly different texture to the dish.
What if I don’t have chicken broth? If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth or even water, though broth will add more depth of flavor to the sauce.
Can I use non-dairy alternatives for the cream and milk? Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream and milk with plant-based options like coconut milk or almond milk. Make sure to choose unsweetened versions to avoid altering the flavor too much.
Is this dish suitable for meal prepping? Yes, this creamy pasta is perfect for meal prep! Simply store the pasta and sauce separately to keep the pasta from absorbing too much sauce. Reheat everything together when you’re ready to enjoy it.
Conclusion:
Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is the perfect dish to enjoy on a busy weeknight or to impress guests on a special occasion. With its rich, cheesy sauce and tender chicken, this meal hits all the right notes in terms of flavor and comfort. Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit your taste, whether you prefer a spicy kick or a vegetarian option. Follow this simple recipe, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish that everyone will love. Get ready to indulge in creamy goodness with every bite!
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