Name: Creamy Caprese Pasta with Melty Mozzarella Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste; 1/3 cup flour; 1-2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 cup dry white wine (Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, or Pinot Grigio); 3 tablespoons butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons flour; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 1/4 cups half and half (half cream, half milk); 3/4 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 5 oz. low moisture whole milk mozzarella, cut into cubes; 1/2 lb. penne pasta; 1/2 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder; Fresh basil leaves; Balsamic glaze (optional)

This might be one of the creamiest, most satisfying pasta dishes you'll ever make—I’m talking about my favorite Creamy Caprese Pasta with Melty Mozzarella Recipe that blends fresh, melty cheese with a velvety tomato sauce and bright basil. Let me walk you through it!

A white metal pan holds creamy orange penne pasta mixed with whole, bright red cherry tomatoes. On top, there are sliced grilled chicken pieces arranged in a neat row across the middle, showing white juicy inside and browned, seasoned outside. Fresh green basil leaves are scattered on the pasta, adding a fresh touch of color. A wooden spoon rests on the pan's edge, ready to stir, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Creamy Caprese Pasta with Melty Mozzarella Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Creamy Caprese Pasta with Melty Mozzarella Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Creamy Caprese Pasta with Melty Mozzarella Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I honestly can't get enough of this creamy Caprese pasta. It’s like carrying the classic flavors of a Caprese salad into a rich, comforting bowl of pasta. If you love fresh tomatoes, gooey mozzarella, and that lovely hint of basil, this recipe will quickly become your go-to weeknight winner.

Rich, velvety sauce: This recipe creates a creamy sauce that's elevated by the perfect blend of half and half, butter, and Parmesan.
That melty mozzarella moment: Cubes of mozzarella melt just enough to offer gooey bites throughout the pasta — pure comfort food magic.
Fresh flavors meet cozy carbs: Juicy cherry tomatoes and fresh basil add brightness that balances the richness beautifully.
Easy to customize: Whether you want to add chicken for protein or skip it for a vegetarian meal, this pasta is wonderfully flexible.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient in the Creamy Caprese Pasta with Melty Mozzarella Recipe is chosen to balance flavor and texture, transforming simple components into an indulgent but fresh dish. I'll share a few tips as you shop so you get the best results.

Flat lay of a large boneless skinless chicken breast sprinkled with Italian seasoning, two whole brown eggs with clean shells, a small mound of white flour on a simple white ceramic plate, a small white bowl of golden olive oil, a small white bowl with three peeled garlic cloves, a small white bowl filled with red tomato paste, a small white bowl containing half and half cream, a small white bowl of pale golden chicken broth, fresh whole and grated Parmesan cheese next to each other on a white ceramic dish, a handful of red cherry tomatoes halved, a small cluster of white mozzarella cheese cubes, uncooked penne pasta scattered neatly, small fresh green basil leaves arranged delicately on the side, all placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Boneless skinless chicken breast: Slicing it thin and seasoning well ensures juicy, flavorful bites without drying out.
Italian seasoning: Adds herbal notes that complement the fresh basil and oregano flavors.
Flour: Used for dredging the chicken and thickening the sauce — simple but essential.
Olive oil: For searing the chicken; extra virgin is best if you want more flavor.
Dry white wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay lifts the sauce with acidity and depth — but you can swap for extra broth if you prefer.
Butter and garlic: Classic rich base and aroma that make the sauce irresistible.
Tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor to brighten and deepen the sauce’s character.
Half and half: Balances creaminess without weighing down the dish.
Chicken broth: Adds subtle savory notes to round out the sauce.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated gives a nutty, salty flavor and helps thicken the sauce beautifully.
Cherry tomatoes: Their sweetness bursts in every bite, offsetting the creamy sauce.
Mozzarella (low moisture, whole milk, cubed): Melts just right — not too rubbery or watery.
Penne pasta: Holds the sauce well; though feel free to swap with your favorite shape.
Seasonings (basil, oregano, onion powder, mustard powder): Layer the flavors for that classic Caprese inspiration with a little savory kick.
Fresh basil & balsamic glaze (optional): Fresh garnish to finish the dish with brightness and a touch of sweet acidity.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

I love making this Creamy Caprese Pasta with Melty Mozzarella Recipe my own by swapping in seasonal veggies or tweaking the protein. It’s such a forgiving recipe — you can make it your own without losing that classic comfort vibe.

Variation: I like adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to sneak in some greens and an earthy depth—it keeps the sauce luscious without overwhelming the fresh flavors.
Vegetarian option: Skip the chicken and double up on tomatoes and fresh basil to keep things bright and light.
Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes stirred into the sauce adds a little kick I personally adore.
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free penne and cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the sauce—you won’t lose any flavor.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Creamy Caprese Pasta with Melty Mozzarella Recipe

A white bowl filled with creamy orange pasta sauce coated penne pasta piled in the center. On top and mixed throughout are golden brown grilled chicken pieces with visible pepper and herbs. Bright red cherry tomatoes are scattered evenly inside the pasta. Fresh green basil leaves sit on the side of the bowl. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface with three ripe red tomatoes and green basil in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients and Chicken

I always start by combining the half and half, chicken broth, and the dried seasonings in a measuring cup — having this mixture ready really helps keep the sauce flowing smoothly later. Then slice the chicken breast lengthwise so you get nice thin pieces that cook evenly. Season generously with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Dredge in flour and shake off the excess. This step helps the chicken get a golden crust and also thickens the sauce a bit when you cook it in the pan later.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken Perfectly

Heat olive oil over medium-high in a large skillet. When hot, place the chicken slices in and let them cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown. Patience here pays off! Once seared, set aside to rest for about 10 minutes — this seals in the juices and keeps your chicken tender once sliced. If you want a little extra tang, drizzle sliced chicken with balsamic glaze before mixing back into the pasta.

Step 3: Build the Sauce with Wine and Butter

Using the same skillet, pour in your white wine over medium heat, scraping up any browned bits from the chicken — that’s flavor gold. Let the wine reduce by half, about 3 minutes. Stir in butter and minced garlic, cooking just until fragrant for about 1 more minute. This is where your kitchen starts smelling amazing, trust me.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Tomato Base

Stir in the flour, cooking for another 1 to 2 minutes to get rid of the raw taste. Add tomato paste and blend it in well. Then, slowly pour in your half and half mixture in small splashes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer while you cook the pasta al dente.

Step 5: Toss in Cheese, Tomatoes, and Pasta

Once the sauce is silky and smooth, sprinkle in Parmesan gradually, stirring to melt it perfectly into the sauce. Add halved cherry tomatoes for pops of sweetness and then the cubed mozzarella. The mozzarella doesn’t need to melt fully — you want those gooey melty bites throughout the pasta. Finally, stir in your cooked, drained penne. Add the sliced chicken back in and let everything warm for 2 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 6: Final Touches and Serve

Toss in plenty of fresh basil leaves or chiffonade just before plating. It adds that herby punch and freshness that balances all the creaminess. Serve with an optional drizzle of balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness and acidity that I think really elevates this dish. Grab a fork and enjoy!

Top Tip

Having made this creamy Caprese pasta many times, a few tips can really make your dish shine and save some common pitfalls.

Don’t rush the chicken sear: Getting that golden crust creates flavor and texture contrast — resist flipping too often.
Add half and half gradually: Pour it in small splashes, stirring constantly, to keep your sauce smooth and lump-free.
Pick the right mozzarella: Low moisture, whole milk mozzarella from a block melts beautifully without turning stringy or watering down the sauce.
Use fresh basil fresh: Add it right before serving to keep that bright, herbal flavor intact.

How to Serve Creamy Caprese Pasta with Melty Mozzarella Recipe

Two side-by-side photos show a silver pan on a white marbled surface. On the left, the pan holds a thick beige sauce with three white butter pieces melting on top, and some grainy texture is visible in the sauce. On the right, the same pan contains a thick, reddish-orange mixture with visible small chunks, being stirred by a red spatula with white polka dots. The spatula is resting against the pan's edge. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I usually top this pasta with fresh basil chiffonade—that shredded form gives you a great sensation of volume and aroma in every bite. I also love a drizzle of balsamic glaze for that tangy-sweet pop. If you want a little crunch, toasted pine nuts can be a nice unexpected addition.

Side Dishes

To keep the meal balanced, I often pair it with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon and olive oil. Garlic bread or a crisp Italian loaf also makes a perfect companion—great for mopping up any sauce left on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties, I’ve served this pasta in small, pretty bowls garnished with whole basil leaves and a swirl of balsamic glaze for an elegant touch. You can also spoon it into small ramekins and broil briefly with parmesan for a bubbly, golden crust that looks fancy but comes together in minutes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge and it keeps well for up to 3 days. Since the pasta will soak up the sauce while resting, adding a splash of milk or broth before reheating helps loosen things up and revive the creaminess.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this pasta a couple of times without trouble. Just be sure to cool it fully before transferring to freezer-safe containers. When thawed, the sauce sometimes thickens, so warming gently with a touch of milk keeps it silky smooth.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a bit of milk or broth helps restore the creamy texture. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it tends to make the mozzarella rubbery and the sauce separate.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this Creamy Caprese Pasta with Melty Mozzarella Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and feel free to add extra cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or even some roasted vegetables for heartiness. The sauce alone is rich and satisfying.

What type of mozzarella is best for this recipe?

Use low moisture, whole milk mozzarella sold in blocks. It melts well and provides those satisfying little pockets of gooey cheese throughout the pasta. Avoid fresh mozzarella balls as they’re too wet and can water down the sauce.

Can I substitute the white wine in this recipe?

Yes! If you don’t want to cook with wine, simply replace it with an equal amount of chicken broth. Though the wine adds depth and acidity, broth works well and keeps the sauce flavorful.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick after storing leftovers?

The pasta tends to soak up the sauce when stored. To loosen it up, add a splash of milk or broth when reheating and stir gently over low heat. This helps bring back the creamy consistency without breaking the sauce.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Creamy Caprese Pasta with Melty Mozzarella Recipe as much as I do. It’s the kind of dish that feels impressive but is totally achievable, even on a busy night. Once you master the steps, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again, whether for family dinners or cozy nights in. Give it a try—you’ll thank me when you’re savoring each cheesy, saucy bite!