Chicken Mozzarella Pasta: A Cheesy Delight to Cherish!

Hello, dear readers! I can’t thank you enough for joining me here. Your enthusiasm and feedback on my previous recipes have warmed my heart, and it’s genuinely uplifting to share my kitchen adventures with such a vibrant community of food lovers. Today, I’m thrilled to bring you a dish that is as comforting as it is simple to prepare: Chicken Mozzarella Pasta. This recipe is a testament to how a few quality ingredients can come together to create a meal that’s absolutely unforgettable!

Ingredients

To get started on this heartwarming dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish

How to Make Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Preparing the Chicken:

1. Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Creating the Sauce:

1. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, and sauté the garlic and onions until they are soft and fragrant.
2. Add Herbs and Tomatoes: Stir in the dried basil, oregano, and crushed tomatoes. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
3. Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Combining Ingredients:

1. Cook Pasta: Meanwhile, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Combine: Add the cooked pasta and browned chicken back into the skillet with the tomato sauce.
3. Cheese Time: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top and let it melt into the hot pasta.

Garnish and Serve:

1. Garnish: Top with fresh basil just before serving.
2. Enjoy: Serve hot and enjoy the gooey, cheesy goodness with your loved ones!

Helpful Tips

• Cheese Matters: Use high-quality mozzarella for the best melt and flavor.
• Pasta Pointers: Ensure not to overcook your pasta as it will continue to soften slightly when mixed with the hot sauce.

Substitutions/Variations

• Gluten-Free: Swap regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free variety.
• Veggie Boost: Feel free to toss in some spinach or mushrooms for an extra touch of veggies.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken to save time. Just add it in towards the end to warm it up.
2. What can I use instead of crushed tomatoes? Diced tomatoes or a simple marinara sauce can work as a substitute.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if necessary.

More Relevant Recipes

If you loved this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta, you might also enjoy exploring these delicious recipes:

• Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry: A Sizzling Delight!
• Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Thank you for spending part of your day with me, and I hope this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine. Remember, every dish tells a story, and I’m just here to help you write yours! Keep those stoves warm and your hearts full. Until next time!

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