One-Pot Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Looking for a quick, easy, and delicious dinner idea? This One-Pot Chicken Mozzarella Pasta combines tender chicken, creamy mozzarella, and rich marinara sauce with perfectly cooked pasta—all made in a single pan! Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe is packed with flavor, simple to prepare, and easy to clean up. Whether you’re a fan of cheesy pasta dishes or searching for family-friendly meals, this one-pot recipe is sure to be a hit. Try it tonight for a comforting, restaurant-quality dish at home!

Ingredients

US Customary (Metric)

• 1 lb. penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 25 oz. marinara sauce
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1½ cups chicken broth
• 1/3 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 8 oz. fresh mozzarella, cut into cubes
• 12 fresh basil leaves, chiffonade

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet or high-walled pan over medium-high heat.
   Add chicken cubes, seasoning with salt and pepper. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for 5 minutes to develop a golden-brown crust. Flip the pieces and cook until evenly browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Deglaze the Pan:
   Pour chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom (this adds flavor to the dish). Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Create the Sauce:
   Stir in marinara sauce and cream cheese, mixing until smooth and well combined. Add red pepper flakes if desired, and bring the sauce to a gentle boil.
4. Cook the Pasta:
   Add the uncooked penne to the skillet. Partially cover the pan with a lid and cook the pasta according to package instructions, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Combine and Serve:
   Reduce the heat to low. Stir the cooked chicken and mozzarella cubes into the pasta. Mix gently until the mozzarella is warm and melted.
   Top with fresh basil leaves and serve hot!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in a single skillet.
• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights with simple ingredients and fast prep.
• Comfort Food: Creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors.
• Customizable: Easily adapt to your tastes with different add-ins or spices.

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Tips

• Cooking the Chicken: Avoid overcooking the chicken; cook just until golden for juicy results.
• Prevent Sticking: Stir the pasta a few times during cooking to keep it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
• Cream Cheese: Ensure it’s at room temperature for smooth blending.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Options: Swap chicken for shrimp, turkey, or Italian sausage.
• Vegetarian Twist: Use mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant instead of chicken.
• Cheese Variations: Substitute mozzarella with fontina, provolone, or gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Replace penne with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

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FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes! Rotini, rigatoni, or fusilli are great alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can this be made ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.

Can I freeze this dish?
It’s not ideal to freeze due to the cream cheese and mozzarella, which may change texture upon reheating.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also makes a fantastic accompaniment.

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Suggestions for Customization

• Add veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition.
• Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne or a drizzle of hot sauce.
• Sprinkle grated Parmesan on top for added cheesiness.

Enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!