Description

Ready to turn up the flavor on your weeknight dinner? This Spicy Smoky Mozzarella Chicken Alfredo Pasta Skillet brings together creamy Alfredo, bold smoky chicken, and gooey mozzarella in one irresistible, one-pan meal. Perfect for those who love rich comfort food with a kick, this easy recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for quick dinner ideas, easy recipes, or bold food ideas, this pasta skillet checks all the boxes. Imagine the sizzle of paprika-seasoned chicken, the silky swirl of Parmesan Alfredo, and that final blanket of melted cheese — it’s comfort food, elevated.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound chicken breast, cubed
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
2 cups chicken broth
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
12 oz rigatoni or penne pasta (uncooked)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
Add cubed chicken and season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear until browned and mostly cooked. Remove and set aside.
Lower heat and add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up browned bits.
Add heavy cream and uncooked pasta. Stir and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy. Return the chicken to the skillet and mix well.
Sprinkle mozzarella evenly on top. Broil in oven for 3–5 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Let rest for 2–3 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes