Cheesy Chicken Mozzarella Delight

$To make the savory Chicken Mozzarella Pasta, gather the following ingredients: - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 8 oz. penne pasta - 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh) - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - 3 tablespoons olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh basil leaves for garnish These ingredients blend together to create a rich, cheesy dish bursting with flavor. The chicken breasts provide protein, while the pasta serves as a hearty base. The tomatoes and spices add depth, and the cheeses melt beautifully, creating a creamy texture. Don't forget fresh basil for a bright finish! {{ingredient_image_2}} 1. Cooking pasta: Start by filling a large pot with water. Add a generous amount of salt to enhance flavor. Bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, add 8 oz. of penne pasta. Cook it for 8-10 minutes or until al dente. After cooking, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. 2. Seasoning chicken: While the pasta cooks, take 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and half of the dried oregano and basil. This will add a lot of flavor to the chicken. 1. Heating the skillet: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Let the oil get hot, but not smoking. 2. Cooking time and method: Carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. The chicken should be golden brown and fully cooked. 3. Resting and slicing: Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet. Let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. After resting, slice it into bite-sized pieces. 1. Sautéing garlic: Without cleaning the skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sauté 3 minced garlic cloves for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn. 2. Adding tomatoes and spices: Next, pour in 2 cups of diced tomatoes. Stir in the remaining oregano, basil, and optional red pepper flakes for heat. Let this mixture simmer for 5 minutes. Stir occasionally until the sauce thickens a bit. 1. Tossing pasta with sauce: Once the sauce thickens, add the drained penne pasta to the skillet. Toss it well so that each piece of pasta gets coated with the sauce. 2. Adding chicken and cheeses: Gently fold in the sliced chicken. Add half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is well combined and the cheese starts to melt. 1. Melting the cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid. Reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. 2. Garnishing with fresh basil: After the cheese melts perfectly, remove the skillet from heat. Before serving, top each plate with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor. - Ensuring chicken is cooked properly: Always check the chicken's internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C). This ensures it's safe to eat. Let it rest before slicing. This keeps it juicy and tender. - Perfecting pasta texture: Cook the penne pasta until it's al dente. This means it should be firm to the bite. Follow the package directions for timing. Don’t forget to salt the water! This adds flavor to the pasta. - Presentation ideas: Serve the chicken mozzarella pasta in shallow bowls. Top with extra chopped basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan. This adds color and makes the dish look fancy. - Side dish pairings: Pair this dish with a simple salad or garlic bread. A light, fresh salad balances the richness of the pasta. Garlic bread adds a nice crunch and flavor. - Alternative cheese options: If you can’t find mozzarella, try provolone or fontina. They melt well and add a different taste. Feta cheese also works for a tangy twist. - Vegetables or protein variations: Add veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition. You can also swap chicken for shrimp or tofu. This keeps the dish fresh and exciting! Pro Tips Perfectly Cooked Pasta: To ensure your pasta is al dente, taste it a minute or two before the package instructions indicate. It should be firm but not hard. Chicken Searing: Allow the chicken to rest after cooking; this helps retain its juices and keeps it tender when sliced. Fresh Herbs: Add fresh basil just before serving for the brightest flavor. Dried herbs are great during cooking, but fresh makes a noticeable difference. Cheese Melting: Cover the skillet while the cheese melts to create a gooey texture throughout the dish, ensuring every bite is cheesy and delightful. {{image_4}} You can switch up the pasta type for this dish. Here are two great options: - Whole wheat: This adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber. Cook it the same way as regular pasta. - Gluten-free options: Use gluten-free pasta for a safe choice for those with gluten issues. Cook it according to the package. Adding veggies boosts flavor and nutrition. Here are some to consider: - Spinach: Add fresh spinach at the end. It wilts quickly in the sauce. - Zucchini: Sauté diced zucchini for about 3-4 minutes before adding the sauce. - Bell peppers: Cook sliced bell peppers for 4-5 minutes until they soften. These veggies bring color and taste to your dish. If you like heat, try these options: - Increasing heat levels: Add more red pepper flakes. Start with 1 teaspoon and adjust to your taste. - Alternative spices to use: Consider using cayenne pepper or chili powder for a different kick. They blend well with the sauce. Experimenting with spice can make the meal exciting and fun! To store leftovers, let the chicken mozzarella pasta cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents drying out. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. For recommended storage containers, use glass or BPA-free plastic. Glass allows you to see the food inside. It also keeps odors from leaking. If using plastic, make sure it’s labeled for food storage. For freezing, let the dish cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. You can also use freezer bags, but make sure to remove excess air. This helps prevent freezer burn. Chicken mozzarella pasta can last up to three months in the freezer. To defrost, move the container to the fridge overnight. If you need it faster, you can microwave it on low. For reheating, use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until heated through. Enjoy your delicious meal again! Yes, you can use frozen chicken. If your chicken is frozen, thaw it first. You can do this in the fridge overnight or use the microwave. Once thawed, season it like fresh chicken. Cook it longer if needed, to ensure it reaches 165°F. This keeps your dish safe and tasty. If you need a mozzarella substitute, try provolone or fontina cheese. Both melt well and have a mild taste. Ricotta cheese can also work, but it won’t melt like mozzarella. For a tangy flavor, use goat cheese. Each option offers a unique twist to your dish. You can keep Chicken Mozzarella Pasta in the fridge for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Make sure the pasta cools down before sealing it. This helps keep flavors intact and prevents spoilage. Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Cook it completely, then let it cool. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. When it’s time to eat, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Stir well to warm it evenly. This post covered how to make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta. We discussed the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking methods, and helpful tips. You learned about serving ideas and ingredient substitutions. Don't forget that you can customize the dish with different pastas and veggies. In the end, this dish is both satisfying and easy to make. Try it out and make it your own. Happy cooking!$

Cheesy Chicken Mozzarella Delight

A delicious and comforting dish featuring tender chicken, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 20

Total Time 35

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 oz penne pasta
2 cups diced tomatoes
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 2 grated Parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 2 red pepper flakes (optional)
3 tablespoons olive oil
to taste salt and pepper
for garnish fresh basil leaves

Instructions

Begin by filling a large pot with water, adding a generous amount of salt, and bringing it to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. After cooking, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the chicken breasts. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and sprinkle half of the oregano and basil evenly over them to enhance flavor.
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked through and achieve a beautiful golden brown color. Once done, remove them from the skillet and allow them to rest for a few minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
Without cleaning the skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Next, pour in the diced tomatoes and stir in the remaining oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes if you are desired a bit of heat. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Once the sauce has thickened, add the drained penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together well so that each piece of pasta is coated with the delicious tomato sauce.
Gently fold in the sliced chicken along with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Mix until all ingredients are evenly combined and the cheese starts to melt into the sauce.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow it to cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and become bubbly.
Once the cheese is perfectly melted, remove the skillet from heat and get ready to serve.
Before serving, garnish each plate with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.

Notes

Serve the dish in shallow bowls, garnishing each serving with additional chopped fresh basil and a light sprinkle of Parmesan for that final touch of elegance. Enjoy this delightful meal!

Keyword cheesy, chicken, mozzarella, pasta