Chicken Mozzarella Pasta: A Delectable Fusion of Flavors
Introduction
Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a delightful dish that marries tender chicken, al dente pasta, and creamy mozzarella in a rich tomato-based sauce. This recipe offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, making it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
To prepare this savory meal, gather the following:
- Pasta: 12 ounces of penne or rigatoni
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Chicken Breasts: 2 boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: 1/2 cup, chopped
- Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup, halved
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup
- Chicken Broth: 1 cup
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1 1/2 cups, shredded
- Fresh Basil: 1/4 cup, chopped
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup, grated
Preparation Steps
1. Cooking the Pasta
- Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
- Cook Pasta: Add the pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions.
- Drain and Set Aside: Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Preparing the Chicken
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Preparing the Sauce
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add Tomatoes: Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the cherry tomatoes start to soften.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Melt Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Combining the Dish
- Add Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat everything evenly with the sauce.
- Incorporate Basil: Stir in the chopped fresh basil.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella and the grated Parmesan over the top.
5. Serving
- Melt Cheese: Cover the skillet and let it sit over low heat for a few minutes until the cheese melts.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (Based on 6 Servings):
- Calories: Approximately 550 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g