Description
So I came up with this recipe on one of those nights when I needed something better than takeout but didn’t want to spend forever in the kitchen. It’s this amazing combo of juicy chicken, gooey mozzarella, and pasta all wrapped up in a garlic-tomato sauce that honestly tastes like something from a restaurant. The fresh basil really makes it pop, and the whole thing comes together in like 30 minutes. It’s become my go-to when I need to impress someone without stressing myself out!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound – or use thighs if that’s your thing)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (or more if you’re not planning on kissing anyone)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (the blend with oregano, basil, etc.)
- Salt and pepper (be generous here)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, but adds a nice kick)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced into rounds (the good stuff in water, not the pre-shredded kind)
For the Pasta & Sauce:
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or whatever shape makes you happy)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (yes, more garlic – trust me)
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (or just use more broth if you don’t have wine)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (cuts the acidity)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (makes it silky smooth)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Handful of fresh basil leaves, torn or roughly chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste