Cheesy Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, rich cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or when you need a satisfying meal with minimal effort. The creamy cheese sauce coats every bite, making it a family favorite that is sure to please.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy – Perfect for weeknight dinners with simple ingredients.
- Creamy and cheesy – A rich sauce that brings comfort in every bite.
- Kid-friendly – A dish that the whole family will love.
- Customizable – Add vegetables, change the cheese, or spice it up.
- Great for leftovers – Reheats well for the next day’s meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
- Butter
- Garlic
- Heavy cream
- Chicken broth
- Cheddar cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper
- Paprika (optional)
- Italian seasoning
- Olive oil
Directions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the chicken by cutting it into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Sauté the chicken in a large skillet with olive oil over medium heat until fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the sauce by melting butter in the same skillet. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add the liquids – Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring continuously.
- Melt the cheese – Gradually add cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy.
- Combine everything – Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well with the sauce.
- Toss with pasta – Add the cooked pasta and stir until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra cheese or fresh parsley if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for heat.
- Veggie-packed: Mix in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Different cheeses: Use mozzarella, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for unique flavors.
- Gluten-free: Swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta.
- Lighter option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s texture. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?
Use freshly grated cheese and melt it over low heat, stirring constantly.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works well. Simply add it to the sauce near the end.
What pasta shape works best?
Penne, rotini, or fusilli hold the sauce well, but any pasta will work.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble everything except the pasta, then reheat and mix it in before serving.
How do I make this dish healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, light cream, and reduce the cheese slightly.
What can I serve with cheesy chicken pasta?
A simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread pair well.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook on low for 4 hours, adding the cheese and pasta in the last 30 minutes.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. You can thicken it with a little flour or cornstarch.
How do I keep the pasta from absorbing all the sauce?
Cook the pasta al dente and add extra cream or broth if needed when reheating.
Can I use a different protein?
Yes, shrimp, turkey, or even tofu can be used instead of chicken.
Conclusion
Cheesy Chicken Pasta is a simple yet indulgent dish perfect for any occasion. With its creamy, cheesy sauce and tender chicken, this meal is sure to become a favorite in your household. Try different variations to suit your taste, and enjoy a comforting homemade meal that is both satisfying and delicious.
Print
Cheesy Chicken Pasta
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian-American
Description
This Cheesy Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish loaded with tender chicken, gooey melted cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich, cheesy sauce. A quick and easy dinner perfect for busy weeknights, this family-friendly meal will be a hit at the table!
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- For the Pasta & Cheese Sauce:
- 10 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Garnish (Optional):
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup crispy bacon bits (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken pieces, season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Cook for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Make the Cheesy Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking continuously.
- Gradually pour in milk and chicken broth, whisking to remove lumps.
- Bring to a simmer, then add cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Combine & Serve:
- Add cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and crispy bacon bits if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Use grilled chicken instead of pan-fried for a lighter version.
- Add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Can be made gluten-free by using GF pasta and flour alternatives.
- Details
Nutrition
- Calories: ~650 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
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