One Pot Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Recipe

Easy Weeknight Dinner

One Pot Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Savor a creamy, garlic kissed pasta with tender chicken and bubbling mozzarella all cooked in just one pot for minimal cleanup and maximum comfort.

Imagine opening your kitchen and being greeted by the aroma of garlic, lemon, and melted mozzarella swirling together in a single pot as the chicken simmers in a silky, creamy sauce.

This is the perfect weeknight dinner when you want something comforting and delicious without facing a sink full of dishes.

I first made this in a tiny apartment kitchen and it quickly became a go to meal because it is nearly impossible to mess up and it feels totally special.

Recipe at a Glance

⏱Prep Time10 mins

🔥Cook Time25 mins

🕐Total Time35 mins

🍰Servings4

🇺🇸CuisineAmerican Italian inspired

🔢Calories~520 per serving

Ingredients

1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite sized pieces

8 ounces short pasta such as penne or fusilli

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 1/2 cups chicken broth

1/2 cup heavy cream or half and half

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1 cup fresh mozzarella balls or shredded mozzarella

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice to finish

Substitutions & Variations

★Use chicken breast instead of thighs if you prefer a leaner cut, just watch the cooking time closely.

★Swap heavy cream with whole milk or a dairy free alternative for a lighter sauce.

★Use spinach or kale instead of cherry tomatoes for a different texture.

★Replace dried basil and oregano with a teaspoon of Italian seasoning in a pinch.

★Finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan if you love extra savory flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Season the chicken

Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt, pepper, dried basil, and dried oregano. This simple step builds flavor from the inside out.

2

Sear the chicken in the pot

Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook until golden on the outside, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside.

3

Soften aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent and soft, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic during the last minute until fragrant.

4

Add tomatoes and pasta

Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and add the pasta, coating everything in the flavorful onion and garlic mixture.

5

Deglaze and simmer

Pour in the chicken broth, scrape the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

6

Cook pasta in the liquid

Nestle the chicken back into the pot, cover partially, and let the pasta simmer until it absorbs most of the broth and is just tender, about 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

7

Stir in cream and cheese

Reduce the heat to low, pour in the heavy cream or milk, and sprinkle the fresh mozzarella over the top. Stir gently until the cheese begins to melt and the sauce turns luxuriously creamy.

8

Finish with brightness

Squeeze a little lemon juice, add a pinch of lemon zest, and taste for seasoning. Adjust with more salt and pepper if needed.

9

Serve and garnish

Divide the pasta among bowls, top with extra mozzarella and chopped parsley if you like, and serve immediately while bubbling.

Pro Baker Tips

✓Do not rinse the pasta; the starch helps the sauce cling and thickens the liquid beautifully.

✓Keep the heat on low when adding the cream to avoid curdling.

✓If the sauce seems too thick, splash in a little more broth or water while stirring.

✓For extra richness, stir in a spoonful of butter at the end.

Storage & Serving Notes

◆Cool leftovers quickly and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

◆Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.

◆Freeze the cooked pasta without the mozzarella if you want to meal prep, then add fresh cheese when reheating.

Serving Suggestions

This one pot chicken mozzarella pasta feels cozy and restaurant worthy right from your own kitchen.

›Serve with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete dinner.

›Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges for a bright finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a gluten free pasta

Yes, choose a gluten free pasta and add it according to the package instructions, usually cooking it a little less since the sauce continues to thicken.

Why is my sauce a bit watery

If there is excess liquid, simmer the pot uncovered for a few minutes to reduce, or mix in a small slurry of cornstarch and water to gently thicken.

Can I make this in the oven

Absolutely, transfer the cooked pasta and chicken to a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and broil for 2 to 3 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Is this recipe spicy

Not at all by default, but you can stir in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while adding the broth for a gentle kick.

🍽️

Go Make It!

This one pot chicken mozzarella pasta proves that weeknight dinners can be simple, satisfying, and delicious without a mountain of dishes to wash, so gather your ingredients and enjoy the cozy, creamy goodness tonight.