There’s nothing quite like a plate of creamy, cheesy pasta to satisfy your cravings. This Cheesy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta with Tomato Sauce is a dish that hits all the right notes—savory, comforting, and bursting with flavor. With tender chicken, gooey mozzarella, and a luscious tomato-infused sauce, this pasta is perfect for family dinners, romantic date nights, or simply treating yourself.

Let’s dive into how you can bring this delicious recipe to life and wow everyone at the dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and easy steps, this pasta dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich and Creamy: The mozzarella and half-and-half create a sauce so silky, it clings to every bite.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level, add veggies, or swap out the protein for endless possibilities.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for kids or adults, this dish is bound to impress.

Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta with Tomato Sauce

Pasta and Chicken

Ingredient	Quantity
Penne pasta	8 oz
Chicken tenderloins (sliced)	1 lb
Salt	¼ tsp
Paprika	¼ tsp

Sauce and Additions

Ingredient	Quantity
Garlic (minced)	3 cloves
Sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)	4 oz
Olive oil	2 tbsp
Half-and-half (or cream + milk)	1 cup
Shredded mozzarella cheese	1 cup
Dried basil	1 tbsp
Red pepper flakes	¼ tsp (or more to taste)
Reserved pasta cooking water	½ cup

Optional Garnish

Ingredient	Purpose
Fresh basil	Garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the penne pasta al dente according to the package instructions.
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. Set aside.

2. Season and Cook the Chicken

1. Sprinkle the sliced chicken tenderloins with ¼ tsp of salt and ¼ tsp of paprika.
2. Heat a skillet over high heat and add 1 tbsp of olive oil.
3. Sear the chicken for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden but not fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

3. Sauté the Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil.
2. Sauté the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Remove the sun-dried tomatoes and set them aside with the chicken.

4. Create the Cheesy Tomato Sauce

1. Lower the heat and pour in the half-and-half (or cream/milk mixture). Bring it to a gentle simmer.
2. Remove the skillet from heat and whisk in the shredded mozzarella cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Combine Everything

5. Toss the Ingredients Together

1. Return the skillet to low heat and add the basil, red pepper flakes, and cooked pasta.
2. Toss in the chicken and sun-dried tomatoes, ensuring everything is coated in the creamy tomato mozzarella sauce.

6. Adjust the Sauce

1. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water until it reaches your desired consistency.
2. Taste and adjust with additional salt or red pepper flakes, if needed.

7. Serve and Garnish

1. Transfer the pasta to serving bowls or plates.
2. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Searing the chicken briefly keeps it tender and juicy as it finishes cooking in the sauce.
• Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy water helps thin the sauce while keeping it rich and creamy.
• Freshly Grated Cheese: For the best texture, use freshly shredded mozzarella instead of pre-packaged shreds.
• Add Vegetables: Toss in spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta dish is hearty on its own, but you can pair it with these sides for a complete meal:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce.
• Simple Salad: A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted zucchini or asparagus for added texture and flavor.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (serves 4):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	480
Protein	30g
Total Fat	18g
Carbohydrates	40g
Fiber	3g

FAQs About Cheesy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta with Tomato Sauce

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Fettuccine, rotini, or any pasta that holds sauce well works perfectly.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the chicken.

3. What’s a good substitute for half-and-half?

Use ½ cup heavy cream and ½ cup milk, or swap it entirely for unsweetened almond milk for a lighter option.

4. Can I add more spice?

Of course! Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

5. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the chicken with mushrooms or zucchini for a delicious vegetarian version.

6. How do I avoid a grainy sauce?

Ensure the skillet is off the heat when whisking in the cheese, and stir until fully melted for a smooth sauce.

Creative Variations

• Pesto Twist: Swap the basil for pesto for a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
• Cheesy Baked Version: Transfer the cooked pasta to a baking dish, top with more mozzarella, and broil until bubbly.
• Seafood Delight: Replace chicken with shrimp or scallops for a seafood twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish celiac-friendly.

Conclusion: A Comfort Food Classic

This Cheesy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta with Tomato Sauce is a dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. Its creamy texture, tender chicken, and savory tomato sauce make it a meal you’ll return to time and time again.

So grab your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and treat yourself to a restaurant-quality dinner at home. You’ll quickly see why this recipe is a must-have in your cooking repertoire!

Print