Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Chicken Mozzarella Pasta! Tender chicken, al dente penne pasta, and sun-dried tomatoes are enveloped in a rich, cheesy mozzarella cream sauce that’s seasoned with a touch of paprika and red pepper flakes for the perfect hint of spice. This dish is a true crowd-pleaser, bursting with Italian-inspired flavors and textures that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

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Ingredients

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb chicken tenderloins, sliced
• ¼ tsp each salt and paprika
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 oz sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup half-and-half (or ½ cup cream + ½ cup milk)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tbsp dried basil
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
• ¼ tsp salt (plus more to taste)
• ½ cup reserved pasta cooking water

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.

2. Prepare the Chicken:
Season the sliced chicken tenderloins with salt and paprika.

3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes for 1 minute until fragrant. Remove the sun-dried tomatoes and set aside.

4. Sear the Chicken:
Using the same skillet, sear the chicken over high heat for 1-2 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.

5. Make the Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low and pour the half-and-half (or cream/milk combo) into the skillet. Bring to a gentle simmer, then remove from heat and whisk in the shredded mozzarella until smooth and creamy.

6. Combine and Toss:
Return the sun-dried tomatoes and chicken to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta, dried basil, and red pepper flakes. Toss everything together to coat evenly in the sauce. Use the reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.

7. Adjust and Serve:
Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or red pepper flakes if desired. Garnish with fresh basil for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

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Tips for Success

• Pasta Water Magic: The reserved pasta water is starchy and helps create a silky sauce consistency. Add it gradually until the desired texture is reached.
• Customize Your Heat: Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your spice tolerance. For a milder dish, skip them altogether.
• Sun-Dried Tomato Boost: Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for added richness. Pat them dry before chopping to avoid an overly oily dish.
• Add Vegetables: Enhance the dish with spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Protein Options: Swap chicken tenderloins with shrimp, turkey, or even grilled tofu for a different twist.

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Why You’ll Love This Dish

This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a one-pan wonder perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties. It delivers a creamy, cheesy indulgence with a pop of brightness from the sun-dried tomatoes and the warming spice of paprika and red pepper flakes. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete Italian-inspired meal.

Buon appetito! 🍝✨