One Pot Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe | Easy Dinner

Discover a tasty one-pot chicken mozzarella pasta recipe for busy weeknights. It’s quick and easy, ready in just 30 minutes. You’ll enjoy creamy marinara sauce, tender penne pasta, juicy chicken, and melted mozzarella cheese.

This dish is a breeze to make, with no long prep times or endless cleanup. It’s a simple way to enjoy a flavorful, satisfying meal without the hassle.

Key Takeaways

30-minute prep time for a complete meal
One-pot cooking for minimal cleanup
Creamy marinara sauce with chicken and mozzarella
Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping
Reheats well for delicious leftovers

Why You’ll Love This Easy One-Pot Pasta Dish

This one-pot chicken mozzarella pasta recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It only takes 10 minutes to prepare and cooks in 18 minutes. You’ll have a tasty, comforting meal ready in under half an hour. Plus, it’s easy to clean up, making it ideal for hectic evenings.

Time-Saving Benefits

Preparing this dish is quick, with only 10 minutes of work needed. The whole meal cooks in 18 minutes. This means you can enjoy a delicious weeknight dinner fast, without losing flavor or quality.

Minimal Cleanup Required

This one-pot method makes cleanup a breeze. Since everything cooks in one pot, you’ll have easy cleanup after dinner. This saves you time and effort, making your evening easier.

Perfect for Busy Weeknights

When life gets busy, this dish is a lifesaver. It’s comforting, quick to make, and perfect for a homemade meal on weeknight dinners.

“This one-pot pasta dish is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s delicious, easy to make, and cleanup is a breeze – what more could you ask for?”

Essential Ingredients Overview

The one-pot chicken mozzarella pasta is a delightful dish. It combines penne pasta, boneless skinless chicken breasts, and marinara sauce for a satisfying meal.

Fresh mozzarella and cream cheese add creaminess and melted cheese goodness. Chicken broth thins out the sauce and adds moisture. Garlic and olive oil make the base savory. Finally, fresh basil adds a burst of herbal freshness.

Ingredient	Quantity
Penne Pasta	8 ounces
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts	1 pound
Marinara Sauce	24 ounces
Fresh Mozzarella	8 ounces
Cream Cheese	4 ounces
Chicken Broth	1 cup
Garlic Cloves	3 cloves
Olive Oil	2 tablespoons
Fresh Basil	1/4 cup, chopped

This recipe serves 6 people. It has about 831 calories per serving. It’s perfect for a family dinner or gathering.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make this tasty One Pot Chicken Mozzarella Pasta, you’ll need some basic cooking equipment and kitchen tools. A large, high-walled pot or skillet is key. An enameled dutch oven is especially good because it heats evenly and has plenty of room.

Best Pot Options

An enameled dutch oven is perfect for this recipe. It spreads heat well and has enough space for everything to cook together. If you don’t have a dutch oven, a big, heavy pot or a high-walled skillet will work too.

Recommended Utensils

A sharp chef’s knife for prepping the chicken and chopping ingredients
A sturdy wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring and mixing
A box grater for shredding the mozzarella cheese
Measuring cups and spoons for accurately portioning out ingredients

With these cooking equipment and kitchen tools, you’re ready to make a delicious, one-pot pasta dish. It’s sure to impress everyone.

One Pot Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Make your weeknight dinners special with this one-pot chicken mozzarella pasta recipe. It’s a mix of juicy chicken, al dente pasta, and creamy mozzarella in marinara sauce. All cooked in one pot for easy cleanup.

The recipe needs 1 pound of Penne or Rigatoni pasta and 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into small pieces. A 25-ounce jar of Marinara sauce is used, along with 8 ounces of fresh Mozzarella cheese cubes.

To add freshness and color, it’s topped with minced parsley, Parmesan shavings, and chiffonade-cut basil leaves. The chicken is seared quickly, then simmered in the sauce for 7-8 minutes. This lets the flavors blend perfectly.

Ingredient	Quantity
Penne or Rigatoni pasta	1 pound
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts	2 whole
Marinara sauce	25 ounces
Fresh Mozzarella cheese	8 ounces
Minced fresh parsley	2 tablespoons
Parmesan shavings	1/4 cup
Basil leaves, chiffonade cut	12 whole

This one-pot chicken mozzarella pasta is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a delicious, hassle-free meal that everyone will enjoy. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and melted mozzarella, it’s sure to be a hit.

Choosing the Right Pasta Shape

Choosing the right pasta shape is key for one-pot pasta dishes like our One Pot Chicken Mozzarella Pasta. Italian wisdom says to balance the pasta’s weight with the sauce’s for the best taste. Let’s look at the top pasta types to make this recipe shine.

Best Pasta Types for This Recipe

Thick, tube-shaped pasta like penne, ziti, or rigatoni is perfect for this dish. They hold the sauce well. The pasta’s shape, with its angular ends and hollow body, catches every bit of marinara and melted mozzarella.

Pasta Cooking Tips

Cook the pasta directly in the sauce, stirring now and then to avoid sticking.
Choose bronze die-cut pasta for a better sauce absorption.
Don’t overcook the pasta. It should be al dente. Follow the package’s cooking time.

By picking the right pasta and following these tips, your One Pot Chicken Mozzarella Pasta will be a hit. It will be a delicious and fulfilling meal.

Preparing the Chicken

To start our savory one-pot chicken mozzarella pasta dish, we need to prepare the chicken. Cut 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. This size helps the chicken cook evenly and mix well with other ingredients.

Next, season the chicken with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This blend adds a rich flavor to the chicken as it cooks.

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil starts shimmering, add the seasoned cooking chicken to the pot. Brown it for about 5 minutes, stirring now and then. We’re just searing the outside, not fully cooking the chicken. Once browned, remove the chicken preparation from the pot and set it aside.

Ingredient	Quantity
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts	3 breasts, chopped into 1-inch pieces
Italian Seasoning	1 teaspoon
Garlic Powder	1 teaspoon
Salt and Pepper	to taste
Olive Oil	2 tablespoons

“Properly preparing the chicken is the foundation for a delicious one-pot pasta dish. Taking the time to season and sear the chicken ensures it will be flavorful and tender.”

Creating the Perfect Marinara Base

Building a flavorful marinara sauce is key for this tasty One Pot Chicken Mozzarella Pasta dish. We’ll start with a 25-ounce jar of high-quality marinara sauce. Then, we’ll add a few simple ingredients to make it even better.

Sauce Consistency Tips

To get the sauce just right, we’ll add 1 1/2 cups of chicken broth. This makes the sauce smooth and pourable. It also adds a rich, savory flavor. If it’s too thick, just add a bit of water, about 1/2 cup, until it’s perfect.

Seasoning Guidelines

Now, let’s season the sauce to perfection. We’ll add salt, black pepper, and a bit of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Remember, taste and adjust as you go to make it just right for you.

By focusing on this pasta sauce base, you’re on your way to a fantastic One Pot Chicken Mozzarella Pasta dish. It’s sure to impress your family and guests.

The Art of Adding Mozzarella

Adding fresh mozzarella cheese takes this one-pot chicken mozzarella pasta dish to new heights. The trick is to mix the melting cheese so it keeps its shape and texture. This creates a nice contrast with the pasta and chicken.

Begin by cutting an 8-ounce ball of fresh mozzarella into small cubes. When the pasta and chicken are cooking in the marinara sauce, add the mozzarella gently. The heat will soften the mozzarella a bit, but it should stay creamy.

Ingredient	Quantity
Fresh Mozzarella	8 oz, cubed

The aim is to get a perfect balance. The melting cheese should make the pasta and chicken creamy and gooey. Yet, the mozzarella should still be distinct, adding to the dish’s texture and flavor.

When to add the mozzarella is key. Adding it too soon will mix it too much. Adding it too late might make the cheese clump. Try adding it in the last 5-10 minutes of cooking. This way, it melts just right and blends well with the other ingredients.

Fresh Herbs and Seasonings

Make your One Pot Chicken Mozzarella Pasta even better with fresh herbs and seasonings. Start by finely chopping a dozen fresh basil leaves for a tasty garnish. Then, mince a few sprigs of fresh parsley and mix them into the marinara sauce. This adds a bright green flavor.

For a touch of Italy, sprinkle some dried Italian seasoning on top before serving. This mix of herbs like oregano and basil enhances the dish’s taste. It pairs well with the mozzarella and chicken.

Adding these herbs and seasonings can turn your pasta into a meal fit for a restaurant. The fresh basil, Italian seasoning, and herb garnish make the dish look and smell amazing. Your family will love it.

“The secret to great Italian cooking is using the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find.”

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Making the One Pot Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is easy. It combines tasty ingredients with the one-pot method. Follow these steps to make a delicious and simple dinner.

Timing Guidelines

This recipe takes about 30 minutes to make. Here’s how long each step takes:

Browning the chicken breasts: 5 minutes
Sautéing the onions and garlic: 2-3 minutes
Simmering the marinara sauce: 7-8 minutes
Cooking the pasta in the sauce: 10-15 minutes
Melting the mozzarella cheese: 2-3 minutes

Temperature Control Tips

It’s important to keep the right temperature. Start by browning the chicken on medium-high heat. Then, lower the heat to medium-low for the onions and garlic.

When simmering the sauce, keep it at medium. This lets the flavors mix without overcooking.

For cooking the pasta, use medium-low to medium heat. Stir often to avoid sticking or overcooking. This gentle heat helps the pasta soak up the sauce while staying al dente.

By following these tips, you’ll get a perfectly cooked Chicken Mozzarella Pasta. It will be full of flavor and balanced.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This one-pot chicken mozzarella pasta dish is perfect for leftovers. It’s great for enjoying again later or for meal prep. Proper storage and reheating are important.

To store leftovers, cool the pasta and put it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat it again, there are a few ways to reheat it:

Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Put the pasta in an oven-safe dish. Sprinkle water on top and cover with foil. Bake for 20 minutes, until it’s hot.
Stovetop Method: Heat the pasta in a saucepan or skillet over medium-low. Stir occasionally until it’s warm, usually 5-7 minutes.
Microwave Method: Put individual portions in a microwave-safe dish. Add water and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until hot.

The oven method is best for keeping the pasta’s texture and flavor. But the stovetop and microwave are good if you’re in a hurry. Always watch the pasta to avoid it drying out or getting too hard.

With a few simple steps, you can enjoy this delicious pasta all week. It’s perfect for meal prep or just enjoying leftovers. This recipe makes it easy to have a homemade, comforting meal whenever you want.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

The one-pot chicken mozzarella pasta recipe is a classic. But, you can make it your own by trying different things. Swap out the protein or use different pasta shapes. Let’s look at some tasty ways to change up the recipe.

Dietary Modifications

Want a lower-carb option? Try using zucchini noodles or spiralized veggies instead of pasta. They’re full of nutrients and cut down on carbs. Or, choose a gluten-free pasta for those with dietary needs.

Need less dairy? Swap mozzarella for dairy-free or plant-based cheese. This works for those who can’t handle lactose or follow a vegan diet.

Ingredient Alternatives

Don’t stick to chicken. Try shrimp, ground turkey, or plant-based meat like tofu or tempeh. It’s a great way to mix things up and please everyone.

Love spicy food? Add more red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. Or, if you prefer mild flavors, use less spice or skip it.

“Customizing this one-pot pasta dish is a great way to make it your own and cater to your family’s unique tastes and dietary needs.”

This recipe is all about being flexible. Experiment and find the perfect mix for you. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

This One Pot Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is easy to make and versatile. Pair it with different pasta sides and complementary dishes for a complete meal.

Try serving the pasta with homemade cheesy garlic bread. The bread’s rich flavors will match the creamy pasta and chicken. You could also choose cheesy garlic crescent rolls or a no-knead artisan bread for a tasty sauce soak.

For a lighter option, a crisp green salad is great. It contrasts nicely with the warm pasta. Add some extra Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

“The possibilities are endless when it comes to pairing this One Pot Chicken Mozzarella Pasta with delicious side dishes. The key is to choose options that will complement the rich, creamy flavors of the pasta and leave your guests feeling satisfied and content.”

Exploring different pasta sides and complementary dishes can make this meal impressive. It’s something the whole family will love.

Expert Tips for Perfect Results

To cook the perfect one-pot chicken mozzarella pasta, pay attention to a few important details. Start by using room temperature cream cheese for a silky sauce. Grate your own mozzarella cheese for even melting. Stir the pasta often to avoid it sticking together.

If the sauce gets too thick, add a bit of pasta water to loosen it. This trick helps keep the sauce just right.

For cooking tips and pasta tricks, small steps can make a big difference. Make sure to pound the chicken breasts evenly for even cooking. Adding extra vegetables? Sauté them first to keep their texture and flavor.

Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth incorporation
Grate your own mozzarella for better melting
Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent sticking
Adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water
Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness
Sauté vegetables before adding to the pot

Follow these expert tips to make a delicious and stress-free one-pot pasta dish that everyone will enjoy. Happy cooking!

“The key to a perfect one-pot pasta is all in the little details. From using the right cheese to controlling the sauce consistency, these tips will help you nail this easy dinner every time.”

Conclusion

The One Pot Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a delightful and easy pasta dinner perfect for busy families. It combines classic Italian flavors with convenience and nutritious ingredients. This one-pot meal is sure to become a new weeknight staple.

Every bite of this easy pasta dinner is a mouthwatering experience. You’ll find tender chicken, tangy marinara, creamy mozzarella, and fresh herbs. It’s a perfect blend of flavors.

If you’re looking to save time or enjoy a comforting family meal, this dish is ideal. It’s packed with essential nutrients and a balance of fresh and pantry ingredients. This recipe offers a wholesome and flavorful solution for busy households.

Gather your loved ones around the table and savor the deliciousness of this one-pot wonder. It’s a convenient and satisfying option for any family.

With its impressive reviews and delectable flavors, the One Pot Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a must-try. It’s a great way to elevate your weeknight dinners. Enjoy the unbeatable convenience of this easy-to-make, family-friendly pasta dish.

FAQ

How long does it take to make this one-pot chicken mozzarella pasta?

It only takes 30 minutes to make this delicious pasta.

What are the key ingredients in this dish?

You’ll need penne pasta, boneless skinless chicken breasts, and marinara sauce. Also, fresh mozzarella, cream cheese, chicken broth, garlic, olive oil, and fresh basil.

What type of pot or pan should I use to make this recipe?

Use a large pot or high-walled skillet. An enameled dutch oven is best for its heat and depth.

How is the chicken prepared in this recipe?

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Brown the chicken in olive oil for about 5 minutes before setting aside.

How do I make the creamy marinara sauce?

Start with a 25 oz jar of marinara sauce. Add chicken broth, cream cheese, and red pepper flakes for flavor. Adjust the sauce’s consistency with water if needed. Season with salt, pepper, and more Italian herbs to taste.

How is the mozzarella added to the dish?

Add 8 oz of fresh mozzarella cut into cubes to the hot pasta and sauce. Let it melt slightly. The mozzarella should be soft but still visible in chunks.

What is the best way to store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best taste, reheat in a dutch oven at 350°F for 20 minutes. This method keeps the flavor and texture better than microwaving.

Can I make any substitutions or variations to this recipe?

For a lower-carb option, use zucchini noodles. Swap chicken with shrimp or plant-based protein for variety. Use dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free version. Adjust spice levels with more or less red pepper flakes.