Pasta dishes are a cornerstone of comfort food, beloved for their versatility and ability to marry a variety of flavors seamlessly. Among these, pasta with chicken, mozzarella, and tomatoes stands out as a hearty and satisfying meal that is both easy to prepare and impressive to serve. This dish combines tender chicken, creamy mozzarella, and juicy tomatoes with pasta, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that delight the palate.
Ingredients :
To create this delightful dish, you will need:
- 12 ounces of your favorite pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work well)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella, cubed or use mozzarella pearls
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried basil)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
Instructions :
1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente, as the pasta will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the other ingredients. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about a cup of the pasta water.
2. Prepare the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, and sauté the minced garlic until it is fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to soften and release their juices, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together gently, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water to create a light sauce. Stir in the fresh basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if using.
5. Add the Mozzarella: Just before serving, fold in the mozzarella cubes or pearls. The heat from the pasta will begin to melt the cheese, creating deliciously gooey pockets of mozzarella throughout the dish.
6. Serve: Transfer the pasta to a serving dish or individual plates. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor and a sprinkle of fresh basil for garnish.
Tips for Success
- Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest ingredients available, especially for the basil and tomatoes, to ensure the best flavor.
- Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water. This starchy water helps to bind the sauce and gives the dish a silky texture.
- Cheese Melting: Add the mozzarella at the last minute to avoid it completely melting and losing its texture. You want those delightful cheesy bites throughout your pasta.
Variations
This recipe is highly versatile. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- Spicy Twist: Add a diced jalapeño or a teaspoon of red chili flakes to the garlic and tomatoes for a spicy kick.
- Different Cheese: Substitute mozzarella with provolone or gouda for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
Pasta with chicken, mozzarella, and tomatoes is a dish that brings together the best of Italian cuisine in a simple, yet elegant way. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, yet sophisticated enough for entertaining guests. With its rich flavors and comforting ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy this delightful dish with a glass of white wine and a side of garlic bread for a meal that is truly bellissimo!
