The other night, as the sun dipped below the horizon, I found myself yearning for something comforting yet simple to prepare. Enter this creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Mozzarella Pasta—a dish that whisked me straight to a cozy Italian trattoria. With tender chicken nestled among al dente penne and enveloped in a velvety sauce, this recipe effortlessly combines the richness of indulgent flavors with the satisfaction of homemade cooking. It’s not just quick to whip up, making it perfect for a busy weeknight, but it also serves as a customizable canvas, inviting you to swap in shrimp or Italian sausage for a twist. Ready to gather the ingredients and bring a taste of Italy to your kitchen? Let’s dive into this delightful pasta adventure!

Why is this recipe a must-try?

Comforting Flavors: Indulge in the creamy richness of sun-dried tomatoes and melted mozzarella that makes every bite a delight.
Quick & Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is perfect for busy nights as well as cozy weekends.
Endless Customization: Feel free to swap in shrimp or Italian sausage for a different twist, allowing you to keep your meals exciting.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish will impress everyone around the table.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Store leftovers and savor this dish for days to come, ensuring you always have a comforting meal on hand. Pair it with a fresh side salad for a complete experience, or try it alongside Chicken Enchiladas Comfort for a delightful spread!

Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Ingredients

• Get ready to create a creamy delight!

For the Pasta

Penne Pasta – The base for this dish, offering heartiness; rigatoni or fusilli can serve as delightful substitutes.
Chicken Breast – Tender and flavorful, this main protein is pan-seared to perfection; consider swapping it for Italian sausage or shrimp if you prefer.

For the Sauce

Sun-Dried Tomatoes – These provide a concentrated tomato essence, adding rich flavor; fresh tomatoes can be used in a pinch, though the taste will differ.
Mozzarella Cheese – Adds a melty texture and creaminess; feel free to use fresh mozzarella for a luxurious finish, or shredded for quick prep.
Heavy Cream – This is what creates the velvety sauce; for a lighter version, half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative works well.
Garlic – Enhances the dish with aromatic flavor; adjust the amount based on whether you like it mild or strong.
Fresh Basil – Brings a bright herbal note that elevates the dish; dried basil can be substituted if fresh isn’t available, but fresh is best.
Red Pepper Flakes – For a touch of heat and depth; you can adjust the amount based on your spice preference or omit it for a milder dish.
Smoky Paprika – Adds a nuanced smokiness that enhances the overall flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Step 1: Cook Penne Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside, allowing any residual water to drip off while you prepare the rest of your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken mozzarella pasta.

Step 2: Sauté Chicken
In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot skillet. Sear the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.

Step 3: Prepare Sauce
In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add a drizzle of olive oil if needed and lower the heat to medium. Toss in minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, sautéing them for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Next, pour in heavy cream, stirring to combine, and gradually whisk in the mozzarella until it melts and becomes creamy, forming a luscious sauce.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add the drained penne pasta and sliced chicken back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together gently, ensuring each piece of pasta and the chicken are evenly coated with the decadent sauce. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of pasta water to achieve your desired creaminess for the chicken mozzarella pasta.

Step 5: Serve
To plate your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken mozzarella pasta, serve generous portions on warm plates. Garnish with freshly chopped basil and extra mozzarella or parmesan on top, if desired. Enjoy the delightful aroma and rich flavors as you dig into this comforting Italian dish, perfect for cozy nights in!

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Fridge: Store your cooked chicken mozzarella pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezer: If you want to keep leftovers longer, freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the pasta on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce’s creamy texture.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the pasta a day in advance; just assemble everything without baking it, then refrigerate. Bake or heat just before serving for ultimate freshness.

Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Variations

Feel free to explore your culinary creativity and make this dish your own with some fun twists!

Protein Swap: Replace chicken with Italian sausage or shrimp for a delightful change in flavor and texture. Both options bring their unique taste, ensuring everyone enjoys a lovely meal.
Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to enhance the dish’s nutrition and add vibrant colors. The veggies not only complement the sauce but also make the dish more hearty and fulfilling.
Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free penne pasta to accommodate dietary needs, so everyone can enjoy this comforting dish. It retains the creamy goodness and rich flavors you love!
Creaminess Level: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream substitute. This adjustment allows you to maintain the silky sauce while accommodating dietary preferences.
Heat Level: Adjust heat by increasing red pepper flakes or adding freshly chopped chili peppers. This sprinkle of heat can elevate your pasta experience, catering to spice lovers!
Fresh Herb Infusion: Try swapping in fresh oregano or parsley for a different herbal note alongside basil. A mix of herbs provides a fresh, aromatic twist to this rich pasta.
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses, such as gouda or feta, for varied meltiness and flavor. Each one adds a different character to the dish, inviting creative flavor profiles.

If you’re looking for some more tasty pasta inspirations, check out my recipes for Butter Chicken Pasta or Pepper Chicken Pasta! The possibilities are endless as you build your family’s favorite meals. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

What to Serve with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this delightful dish with complementary sides and flavors that enhance every savory bite.

Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery delight that perfectly soaks up the creamy sauce, adding an irresistible crunch to your meal.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons provide refreshing contrast to the rich pasta, ensuring every forkful is exciting.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables such as zucchini and bell peppers bring a colorful and nutritious touch, balancing the creaminess with natural sweetness.
White Wine: A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio enhances the flavors beautifully, offering a refreshing counterpoint to the indulgent pasta.
Pesto Caprese Salad: The fresh basil, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella in this salad echo the flavors of your pasta while adding a vibrant twist.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and airy chocolate mousse serves as a decadent end, providing a rich conclusion to your Italian feast.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Mozzarella Pasta ahead of time is a fantastic way to streamline your busy weeknights! You can cook the penne pasta and sauté the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate them separately in airtight containers. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce by combining the garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, cream, and mozzarella and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce in a skillet, add the cooked pasta and chicken, and gently toss until warmed through. This approach ensures that your pasta remains just as delicious and fresh as when made from scratch!

Expert Tips for Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Cook Pasta Al Dente: Always aim for al dente pasta, as it will hold up better when mixed with the sauce, maintaining the perfect texture for your chicken mozzarella pasta.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh basil and garlic whenever possible, as they significantly enhance flavors and aromas compared to dried alternatives.
Right Chicken Temperature: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety and the best texture; no one likes dry chicken in their pasta!
Adjust Sauce Thickness: If your sauce thickens too much, simply add a splash of reserved pasta water to regain that creamy consistency without compromising flavor.
Personalize Your Dish: Don’t hesitate to customize by swapping proteins or adding vegetables; this chicken mozzarella pasta is all about making it your own!

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right sun-dried tomatoes?
Absolutely! When selecting sun-dried tomatoes, look for those that are plump and vibrant in color. If using the oil-packed variety, they should be glossy without dark spots. Dried sun-dried tomatoes should be slightly pliable and not too hard, indicating they’re still flavorful.

How do I store leftover chicken mozzarella pasta?
You can store your cooked creamy chicken mozzarella pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool down to room temperature first to avoid condensation buildup in the container, which can lead to sogginess.

Can I freeze chicken mozzarella pasta?
Absolutely! To freeze your pasta, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, squeezing out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Your pasta can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or cream.

My sauce turned out too thick; what should I do?
If your sauce thickens too much while cooking, no worries! Just add a splash of reserved pasta water and stir until you reach your desired creaminess. If you didn’t save pasta water, plain water or a little extra cream will do the trick too. This usually takes just a minute or two of stirring over low heat.

Is this chicken mozzarella pasta suitable for food allergies?
For those with dairy allergies, I recommend substituting the heavy cream with a plant-based cream alternative and opting for dairy-free cheese. As for gluten concerns, using gluten-free penne will work well, ensuring everyone can savor this comforting dish. Always double-check all labels to ensure no hidden allergens are present.

How can I customize this pasta dish further?
Feel free to experiment! If you’re looking to amp up the nutrition, consider adding spinach or bell peppers during the sautéing step. You can also switch chicken for shrimp or Italian sausage for an exciting variation, adding your own twist to the chicken mozzarella pasta experience!