Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Bowl (Print Version)

Juicy chicken, penne pasta, creamy tomato sauce, and two cheeses create a rich, flavorful comfort classic.

# Ingredients:

→ Poultry

01 - 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts

→ Pantry Staples

02 - Salt to taste
03 - Black pepper to taste
04 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ Aromatics

05 - 3 cloves garlic, minced

→ Spices

06 - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional

→ Canned Goods

07 - 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes

→ Dairy

08 - 1 cup heavy cream
09 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
10 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ Pasta and Broth

11 - 1 cup chicken broth
12 - 8 ounces penne pasta

→ Herbs

13 - 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped or 1 teaspoon dried basil
14 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, optional, for garnish

# Steps:

01 - Boil penne pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
02 - Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts for 5 to 6 minutes per side until fully cooked and no pink remains in the center. Remove chicken to a plate and allow to rest before slicing thinly.
03 - In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add red pepper flakes, if using, and cook 30 seconds longer. Pour in diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and chicken broth; bring to a simmer and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until sauce slightly thickens.
04 - Add drained pasta and sliced chicken breast to the skillet with the sauce. Stir until well combined and pasta and chicken are evenly coated.
05 - Fold in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until cheeses are melted and sauce is creamy. Add chopped basil and stir to distribute evenly.
06 - Remove skillet from heat. Garnish with additional chopped basil and fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately while warm.

# Notes:

01 - Letting the chicken rest before slicing retains its juiciness and ensures tender pieces.