Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Best Cheesy Chicken Pasta is everything you want in a comforting meal: tender chunks of chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce that clings to every bite. It’s indulgent, satisfying, and comes together quickly—making it perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends. What makes this recipe special is the combination of cheeses that create a smooth, gooey texture without being heavy. The sauce has just the right balance of creaminess and flavor, while the chicken adds protein and substance. I personally love making this dish when I need something hearty yet fuss-free; it always hits the spot and leaves everyone at the table asking for seconds.
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The Best Cheesy Chicken Pasta – Comforting, Creamy, and Loaded with Flavor
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A rich and creamy cheesy chicken pasta made with tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious blend of melted cheeses for the ultimate comfort meal.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season chicken with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 6–8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Whisk in flour to form a roux, then slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream until smooth.
- Simmer sauce for 3–4 minutes, then stir in mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
- Add cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce. Toss until everything is well coated and heated through.
- Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker version.
- Add cooked bacon or sautéed spinach for extra flavor.
- For baked cheesy pasta, transfer mixture to a casserole dish, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American-Italian
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken breasts – Lean, tender, and perfect for absorbing the creamy sauce. You can also use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
Pasta – Penne, rotini, or shells are ideal for catching the sauce, but feel free to use your favorite pasta.
Olive oil and butter – The combination adds richness and helps brown the chicken beautifully.
Garlic – Provides aromatic depth and enhances the flavor of the creamy sauce.
Onion – Adds a touch of sweetness and complements the savory cheese sauce.
All-purpose flour – Helps thicken the sauce into a silky consistency.
Chicken broth – Forms the base of the sauce and keeps it flavorful.
Heavy cream or milk – Makes the sauce rich and luscious; you can use half-and-half for a lighter option.
Cheddar cheese – Adds sharpness and vibrant color to the sauce.
Mozzarella cheese – Creates that irresistible stretch and gooey texture.
Parmesan cheese – Brings a salty, nutty note that rounds out the flavor.
Paprika and Italian seasoning – Add warmth and subtle spice to the chicken and sauce.
Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning throughout the dish.
Parsley – For a fresh garnish that brightens the richness of the cheese sauce.
Directions
Start by cooking the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.
Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add a little butter if needed, then sauté the onions until soft. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir continuously for about 1 minute to form a light roux.
Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps, then add the cream. Simmer gently until the sauce begins to thicken. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated in the creamy cheese sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra cheese before serving.
Equipment needed
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Pot for pasta
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Cheese grater
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4–5 people. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, cooking about 25 minutes. Total time: approximately 35 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. It’s best enjoyed fresh, as the cheese sauce may thicken after refrigeration.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy Kick – Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
Veggie Boost – Stir in spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
Bacon Lover’s Version – Add crispy bacon bits for smoky richness.
Herb Delight – Mix in fresh basil or thyme for an aromatic twist.
Cheese Swap – Try gouda, provolone, or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.
One-Pot Shortcut – Cook the pasta directly in the sauce with added broth for fewer dishes.
Baked Cheesy Chicken Pasta – Transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Buffalo Style – Add buffalo sauce and top with blue cheese crumbles for a bold twist.
Low-Carb Option – Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower florets.
Mediterranean Spin – Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken works perfectly—just stir it in near the end.
What cheese melts best for this pasta?
Mozzarella and cheddar create the perfect creamy, gooey texture.
Can I make this without heavy cream?
Yes, substitute with milk and a bit of cream cheese for richness.
How can I make it healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, light cream, and add vegetables like spinach or broccoli.
Can I freeze this pasta?
Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?
Add cheese off the heat and stir until smooth to prevent curdling.
Can I make it spicy?
Yes, stir in red pepper flakes or hot sauce to taste.
What pasta shape holds the sauce best?
Penne, rigatoni, or rotini are excellent choices.
How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?
Simmer longer or add a bit more cheese or a spoon of flour.
What can I serve with this dish?
Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables pair beautifully.
Conclusion
The Best Cheesy Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort dish—rich, creamy, and full of satisfying flavor. With tender chicken, a velvety cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a meal that feels both indulgent and homey. The combination of three cheeses gives it that irresistible gooey texture, while the seasonings make it truly delicious. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this pasta delivers pure comfort in every bite. It’s simple, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser—definitely one to keep in your regular rotation.
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