Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of Italy with our Chicken Mozzarella Pasta, drizzled in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce that will tantalize your taste buds! This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings together tender chicken, luscious mozzarella, and the vibrant essence of sun-dried tomatoes—all in just 30 minutes! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive date night, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Ready to elevate your pasta game? Let’s dive into this delightful culinary adventure!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 8 ounces pasta
- 1 cup sun dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. While water is heating, season diced chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, approximately 6-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for 2-3 minutes to release their flavors.
- Pour heavy cream into the skillet with sun-dried tomatoes, stirring to combine and create a smooth sauce. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook pasta in boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain pasta, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.
- Add cooked chicken back into the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
- Fold in cooked pasta, mixing gently to combine. If sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta and stir until cheese begins to melt and create a creamy texture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnishing with extra mozzarella or fresh basil if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for pasta shapes that hold sauce well, like penne or fusilli, to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
- Cook Chicken Perfectly: Make sure to cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and fully cooked through for that ideal texture. You can also marinate the chicken in Italian herbs beforehand for extra flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allow the sun-dried tomatoes to sauté properly before adding the cream; this enhances the sauce's depth and richness.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta water before draining. This starchy water can be a game-changer for adjusting the sauce's consistency.
- Cheese It Up: For an extra cheesy experience, consider adding more mozzarella or a sprinkle of parmesan on top just before serving.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil can elevate the dish's presentation and flavor profile—don’t skip this step!
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor, making the dish even more delightful.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 650kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Cholesterol: 160mg
