Introduction
Welcome to a delightful dish that promises to bring warmth and comfort to your dinner table: Baked Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta! This heartwarming meal is the perfect blend of tender chicken, rich and creamy sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese, all enveloped in al dente pasta. It’s a recipe that balances ease with indulgence, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. With every cheesy bite, you’ll taste the love that goes into this dish!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), letting the warmth fill your kitchen.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. Once done, drain it and set it aside, allowing it to cool slightly.
- In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, sprinkling with salt and pepper to taste. Sauté the chicken until it’s no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning to the skillet, stirring them in, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant and aromatic.
- Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir the mixture together, bringing it to a gentle simmer, where the flavors meld beautifully.
- Add half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and all of the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until everything is melted and combined into a rich, creamy sauce.
- Now, gently fold the cooked pasta into the sauce and chicken mixture, ensuring each piece of pasta is generously coated.
- Transfer this delightful mixture to a greased baking dish and top it off with the remaining mozzarella cheese, creating a glorious cheesy layer on top.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, giving it that irresistible look.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness before serving warm.
Notes or Tips
- For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken with Italian spices for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, like spinach or bell peppers, to the skillet for a nutrient boost.
- If you love a bit of heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
Cooking Techniques
This dish uses a combination of sautéing and baking, which allows for excellent flavor development. Sautéing the chicken draws out its juices and creates a wonderful base for the sauce. Baking it at the end enhances the textures, resulting in a bubbly, golden top that’s simply irresistible!
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Any pasta shape you enjoy will work wonderfully.
- How can I make this dish vegetarian? Substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables.
- Can leftovers be stored? Yes! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Conclusion
Gather around the table and enjoy this Baked Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta, where every bite is a testament to hearty home cooking! Bursting with flavor and comfort, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. With its creamy sauce and melty cheese, it’s a delicious reminder of the joys of cooking and sharing meals with loved ones. Enjoy!