This Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a perfect dish for cozy fall evenings! Tender chicken, melted mozzarella, and a rich garlic basil cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes make this an unforgettable meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed, drained)
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine work well)
The combination of mozzarella, Parmesan, and fresh basil gives this dish a creamy, aromatic, and slightly tangy flavor, complemented by the rich taste of sun-dried tomatoes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and minced garlic.
- Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
- Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
4. Make the Cream Sauce:
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
5. Combine Everything:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with the cooked pasta.
- Stir in the chopped basil and let everything simmer together for another 1-2 minutes until the pasta and chicken are fully coated in the sauce.
6. Serve:
- Serve the pasta hot, garnished with extra basil or Parmesan if desired.
Helpful Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Pasta
- Use Oil-Packed Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These are softer and more flavorful, adding a wonderful depth to the sauce.
- Simmer for Thickness: Let the sauce simmer to achieve a thick, creamy consistency.
- Customize Your Pasta: Penne, fettuccine, or any pasta with ridges works well to hold the creamy sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is an indulgent, comforting dish with a flavor-packed cream sauce. Perfect for chilly fall evenings, it combines classic Italian flavors with rich, creamy textures that will keep you coming back for more!
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
- Yes, but the sauce may be slightly thinner. You can simmer longer to thicken.
2. Can I substitute fresh basil with dried?
- Fresh basil is recommended for flavor, but you can use 1 tsp dried basil if needed.
3. What can I serve with this pasta?
- Serve with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
4. Can I add vegetables to this pasta?
- Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers make great additions.
5. How do I store leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Garlic Basil Cream Sauce is a comforting, cozy dish that brings together tender chicken, rich cheese, and creamy sauce with fragrant basil. Perfect for any fall evening, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up and sure to satisfy!