Baked Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

If you’re craving comfort food that’s rich, cheesy, and satisfying, you’ll absolutely adore this Baked Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta. It’s a perfect family dinner that combines tender chicken, gooey mozzarella, and a luscious creamy sauce all baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re hosting a casual weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish is straightforward, flavorful, and sure to become a new favorite in your recipe box.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Comfort: A hands-off baking process means minimal stress and maximum flavor with little cleanup.
• Family-Friendly Flavors: Mild mozzarella and creamy sauce appeal to both kids and adults alike.
• One-Dish Wonder: Combines protein, pasta, and cheese in a single baking dish for easy serving.
• Customizable Ingredients: Swap veggies or protein based on what you have or prefer.
• Perfect Make-Ahead: Prepare in advance and bake when ready for a quick dinner solution.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Baked Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta recipe plays a key role in delivering creamy texture, savory depth, and cheesy goodness. The list keeps it simple so you can gather everything quickly and get cooking.

• Chicken Breast: Provides lean protein that stays juicy when baked.
• Pasta: Choose penne or rigatoni for sauce-holding shapes.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully to create that signature gooey layer.
• Heavy Cream: Adds richness and a silky consistency to the sauce.
• Garlic and Onion: Aromatics that build flavor from the start.
• Parmesan Cheese: Enhances the sauce with a sharp, nutty taste.
• Olive Oil or Butter: Used to sauté chicken and veggies, boosting flavor.
• Italian Seasoning: A classic herb blend that adds warmth without overpowering.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and highlight the dish.
• Optional Veggies (Spinach or Mushrooms): Add freshness and texture.

Variations for Baked Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

One of the joys of this recipe is how easy it is to adapt! Whether you want to accommodate dietary restrictions or add your favorite flavors, there are plenty of variations to try.

• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a meatless option.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a touch of heat.
• Different Cheeses: Swap mozzarella for fontina or provolone to change the flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish suitable for gluten sensitivities.
• Herb Boost: Fresh basil or oregano can be tossed in before baking for vibrant aroma.

How to Make Baked Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet, season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then sauté until it’s golden brown and cooked through — usually about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta al dente according to package directions. Drain well, reserving a half cup of pasta water just in case your sauce needs thinning later.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic and diced onions until fragrant and translucent. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the cream sauce, then add the cooked pasta. Toss everything gently to coat each piece of pasta and chicken with the creamy mixture.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture into a greased baking dish. Top evenly with shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.

Step 6: Serving

Once baked, let the dish cool for a few minutes. This helps everything set slightly for easier serving and more depth of flavor.

Pro Tips for Making Baked Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

• Use Fresh Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella melts best and creates that wonderfully stretchy texture.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Aim for al dente pasta to finish baking perfectly without getting mushy.
• Sauté Ingredients Well: Developing flavor in the chicken and aromatics before baking intensifies the final dish.
• Stir Gently: When combining pasta with sauce, mix gently to keep pasta intact and sauce evenly distributed.
• Let it Rest: Allow the baked pasta to rest briefly before serving for better consistency.

How to Serve Baked Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a lovely pop of color and freshness, balancing the richness of the creamy sauce. A light dusting of extra Parmesan can also enhance presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair this creamy pasta with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli for wholesome balance. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls complement the dish perfectly to soak up any extra sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the baked pasta straight from the casserole dish for a casual family dinner or spoon portions into individual ramekins for a visually impressive meal. Adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a handful of toasted pine nuts adds extra flair and texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Baked Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents the pasta from drying out.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. Transfer cooled pasta into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed to loosen the sauce. Cover with foil when baking to avoid over-browning on top.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While mozzarella is the star of this dish, you can mix in cheeses like fontina, provolone, or even a bit of sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s an excellent meal prep option since it keeps well in the fridge and can be portioned out for quick reheating throughout the week.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, swap heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream and use dairy-free cheese alternatives. Cooking times remain similar.

What pasta works best for this baked dish?

Short, tube-shaped pastas like penne, rigatoni, or ziti are ideal since they capture the sauce in their ridges and hollow centers.

How can I add vegetables to the recipe?

Sauté spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini along with the chicken or stir them in just before baking to boost nutrition and color.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table with its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and melted mozzarella. It’s simple to make, endlessly adaptable, and perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends alike. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen!

Related Posts

• Delicious Baked Chicken Recipe
• Cheesy Baked Chicken with Rice
• Why Roasted Figs Are Your New Favorite Treat

Print