Name: Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1 tsp garlic powder; 2 tbsp olive oil; 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or preferred short pasta); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup chicken broth; 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional); Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a rich and satisfying dish that brings together tender pieces of chicken, al dente pasta, and a velvety, cheesy sauce made with mozzarella and cream. It’s one of those comforting meals I turn to when I want something indulgent, hearty, and absolutely delicious—perfect for a cozy dinner night or when I want to impress with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how creamy and cheesy this pasta is, without being too heavy. The chicken adds a hearty, protein-packed bite, while the mozzarella melts beautifully into the sauce, creating that irresistible stringy texture in every forkful. It’s quick to prepare, versatile, and always a hit whether I’m cooking for family or guests.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Salt
Black pepper
Garlic powder
Olive oil
Pasta (penne, fusilli, or any short pasta)
Garlic, minced
Heavy cream
Chicken broth
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Parmesan cheese (optional)
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Directions

I start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
In a large skillet, I heat some olive oil and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown and cooked through. I remove it and slice it into strips.
While the chicken is cooking, I boil the pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain and set it aside.
In the same skillet, I sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, letting it simmer for a few minutes.
I stir in the mozzarella and parmesan until melted and smooth.
I add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the sauce, tossing everything together until well coated.
I finish it off with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. The prep time takes around 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 20 minutes, so I usually have this dish ready in 30 minutes total.

Variations

Sometimes I add sun-dried tomatoes or spinach for extra flavor and color. I also like using rotisserie chicken when I need a shortcut. For a spicier kick, I add red pepper flakes to the cream sauce. If I want to lighten it up, I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and still get a creamy result.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. I avoid high heat to prevent the cheese from separating.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, I often use cooked or rotisserie chicken to save time. I just add it to the sauce at the end and let it heat through.

What kind of mozzarella works best?

I prefer low-moisture shredded mozzarella because it melts smoothly and helps keep the sauce creamy.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

I can, but the sauce won’t be as rich. Whole milk or a mix of milk and a little butter can help create a similar texture.

Does this dish freeze well?

I don’t usually freeze it because the creamy sauce can separate. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days.

What pasta shape works best?

I like short pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni because they hold the sauce well. Long pasta like fettuccine also works if that’s what I have on hand.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is one of those meals I come back to again and again. It’s rich, flavorful, and feels like a restaurant-quality dish made right in my own kitchen. Whether I’m making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal, this pasta never disappoints.