1-First Step: Preparation and Mise en Place Gather all your ingredients and tools before you begin this chicken mozzarella pasta comes together quickly, so being organized helps. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces, dice the onion, mince the garlic, and cube the mozzarella. For dietary adaptations, if you’re making it vegan, swap the chicken for tofu and use a plant-based cheese; for gluten-free, choose gluten-free pasta. This step takes about 10 minutes and sets you up for success in your mozzarella chicken pasta adventure.

2-Second Step: Cook the Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add 1 lb. of penne or rigatoni pasta, cooking according to the package instructions until al dente usually around 10-12 minutes. While the pasta boils, keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking, which can lead to soggy results in your chicken mozzarella pasta. If you’re aiming for low-calorie, drain it well and set aside; for gluten-free, ensure your pasta is certified gluten-free to maintain the texture.

3-Third Step: Cook the Chicken Heat 2 tbsp. of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper, and let it cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown. Stir to brown all sides, which takes another 3-4 minutes, then remove to a plate. This method ensures juicy chicken in your chicken mozzarella pasta; for protein swaps like tofu, reduce cooking time to avoid it getting too firm. Aim for an internal temp of 165°F for safety.

4-Fourth Step: Sauté the Aromatics and Build the Sauce In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion turns golden and fragrant. Lower the heat to low, then pour in the 25-ounce jar of marinara sauce, 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes, and 1/2 cup water, stirring to combine. For low-calorie versions, use a sauce with fewer added sugars, and if going vegan, check that the sauce is plant-based. Let it simmer for a bit to meld flavors, adapting seasonings as needed for your chicken pasta with mozzarella.

5-Fifth Step: Combine and Simmer Add the cooked chicken and 2 tbsp. minced fresh parsley back into the skillet with the sauce. Let everything simmer together for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is bubbly and hot. This step marries the flavors in your chicken mozzarella pasta nicely. For dietary needs, stir in vegan cheese cubes instead if needed, and ensure the mixture doesn’t boil too vigorously to keep textures intact, especially for gluten-free adaptations.

6-Final Step: Finishing Touches and Serving Gently stir in the 8 oz. cubed fresh mozzarella and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes to soften without fully melting, keeping those chunks you love in chicken mozzarella pasta. Drain the pasta, place it on a platter, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with 1/4 cup Parmesan shavings. Pour the saucy mixture over the top, garnish with chiffonade basil, and serve immediately for the best cheesy pull. For low-calorie options, go light on the oil and cheese, and enjoy your customized mozzarella chicken pasta hot. This whole process totals about 15 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick win.