Description
A quick and easy One-Pot Chicken Mozzarella Pasta that combines juicy chicken, melted mozzarella, and a rich tomato sauce for a creamy, comforting meal with minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
- Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning, then add it to the pot. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Stir in crushed red pepper flakes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the uncooked penne pasta, stirring to combine. Cover and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid (about 15 minutes).
- Reduce the heat and stir in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and combined.
- Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot.
Notes
- Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- Extra Creaminess: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese.
- Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeño.
- Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta as needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: one pot
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: one-pot pasta, chicken mozzarella pasta, easy weeknight dinner, creamy tomato pasta, cheesy pasta recipe