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Italian Chicken Mozzarella Pasta dish features tender chicken and melted mozzarella over pasta.

Best Italian Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

This Italian Chicken Mozzarella Pasta recipe elevates a classic comfort food by focusing on flavor layering and texture. It emphasizes searing the chicken, creating a balanced sauce with acidity, and using fresh mozzarella for a truly memorable dish.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 6 oz each
  • 1 pound pasta penne, rotini, or farfalle
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
  • 24 ounces jarred marinara sauce high-quality recommended
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish
  • Pasta water, reserved

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • large pot
  • Pounding mallet or rolling pin
  • cutting board
  • knife
  • colander
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch). Season generously with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside to rest.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
  4. Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the marinara sauce and balsamic vinegar. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Cook the Pasta: While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to package directions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  6. Combine and Finish: Slice the cooked chicken breasts. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat, adding pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce.
  7. Add Mozzarella and Chicken: Top with sliced mozzarella and sliced chicken. Cover the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the mozzarella is melted and gooey.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.

Notes

For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken in Italian dressing for 30 minutes before searing. You can substitute the balsamic vinegar with a squeeze of lemon juice for a brighter flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.