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Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Garlic Mozzarella Cream Sauce

This creamy pasta dish features tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and a rich mozzarella cream sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner with Italian-inspired flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz farfalle or penne pasta
  • 4 oz sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained with 2 Tbsp oil reserved
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenders, cut into thin strips
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream or half-and-half
  • 4 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded or cubed
  • 1 Tbsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1 lemon, juiced (optional for brightness)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water, and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat reserved sun-dried tomato oil over high heat. Add chicken strips, season with salt, pepper, and paprika; cook for 2 minutes. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, onion, and garlic; cook and stir for 2 more minutes.
  3. Pour in heavy cream and lemon juice (if using). Bring to a boil, stirring frequently. Reduce to simmer.
  4. Add cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, basil, red pepper flakes, and additional salt to taste. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Stir in mozzarella cheese until melted and sauce is creamy. Remove from heat and let sit for 1-2 minutes to thicken. Garnish with extra basil or cheese if desired.

Notes

Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed. For extra flavor, add cooked bacon crumbles. Use fresh mozzarella for a softer melt.

Nutrition

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