Creamy Dreamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe for Cozy Nights

Twirling your fork through a creamy cheesy chicken pasta that bursts with comfort and flavor.

Weeknight dinners just became way more exciting with this simple yet irresistible combination.

Tender chicken pieces nestle among perfectly cooked pasta strands, creating a delightful texture in every bite.

Melted cheese weaves through the dish, adding richness that makes you want to savor each mouthful.

Weeknight stress melts away as this warm, satisfying meal comes together quickly and easily.

Minimal ingredients, maximum taste—that’s the magic of this crowd-pleasing recipe.

Grab a fork and get ready to experience pure culinary joy that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

What You’ll Need For Cheesy Chicken Pasta

• Pasta: Provides the base for this comforting dish, choose a short pasta like penne or rotini that holds sauce well.
• Chicken: Lean protein that adds substance and flavor to the pasta, boneless skinless chicken breasts work best.

• Cream Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Creamy cheeses that create a rich, smooth sauce with depth of flavor, freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Basic seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the chicken and cheese.
• Garlic Powder, Italian Seasoning: Adds aromatic depth and classic Italian-inspired flavor to the dish.

• Pasta Water: Starchy liquid that helps create a silky sauce and helps ingredients adhere to the pasta.

Steps For Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Boil Pasta to Perfection

Fill a large pot with water and sprinkle in some salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil and add your pasta. Cook according to the package directions until the pasta is tender but still has a slight bite. Carefully scoop out a bit of the starchy cooking water and set it aside. Drain the pasta in a colander, letting it sit while you prepare the other components.

Step 2: Transform Chicken into Flavor Magic

• Garlic powder
• Black pepper
• Salt
• Paprika

Heat a skillet with a splash of olive oil. Place the seasoned chicken in the pan and cook until it turns a beautiful golden brown and is completely cooked through. The chicken should be juicy and have those irresistible crispy edges. Once done, transfer to a cutting board and slice into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Create Creamy Cheese Sauce Wonderland

• Shredded cheddar
• Cream cheese
• Parmesan

Keep stirring until the cheese melts into a luxurious, smooth sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, splash in some of that reserved pasta water to thin it out.

Step 4: Combine and Celebrate

Toss the cooked pasta into the creamy cheese sauce. Gently fold in the sliced chicken, making sure every piece gets coated in cheesy goodness. If needed, add a bit more pasta water to help everything mix perfectly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or green onions on top for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve immediately while the pasta is hot and the cheese is gloriously melted.

Enjoy your mouthwatering Cheesy Chicken Pasta!

Tips For A Better Cheesy Chicken Pasta

• Preserve Pasta Perfection: Save a quarter cup of starchy pasta water to help sauce cling beautifully to noodles and create a silky, smooth texture.
• Customize Cheese Blend: Mix different cheeses like sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan for a more complex and rich flavor profile that elevates the dish.
• Control Sauce Consistency: Adjust sauce thickness by gradually adding reserved pasta water if the mixture seems too thick or dry during cooking.
• Protein Power-Up: Swap chicken with turkey, tofu, or plant-based alternatives to accommodate dietary preferences while maintaining the recipe's delicious core.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the entire dish in advance and reheat gently with a splash of extra pasta water to restore creamy consistency and prevent drying out.

How To Store Cheesy Chicken Pasta The Easy Way

• Refrigerate: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool the pasta completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Microwave Reheating: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few drops of water or reserved pasta water to keep the pasta moist. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly.
• Stovetop Refresh: Warm the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of pasta water or cream to restore its creamy texture. Stir gently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
• Freeze Option: Wrap tightly in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Tasty Matches With Cheesy Chicken Pasta

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a bright, acidic sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio to cut through the rich, creamy cheese sauce and refresh your palate between bites.
• Complement with Fresh Salad: Toss a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the pasta's heaviness and add a zesty, peppery contrast to the cheesy chicken.
• Match with Garlic Bread: Serve warm, crusty garlic bread alongside the pasta to soak up extra sauce and provide a crunchy texture that elevates the entire meal experience.
• Enhance with Roasted Vegetables: Add a side of roasted broccoli or asparagus to introduce a nutritious, slightly charred element that complements the pasta's creamy profile.

Fun Variations Of Cheesy Chicken Pasta

• Mediterranean Herb Chicken Pasta: Enhance the dish by adding crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh oregano, and sundried tomatoes for a Greek-inspired flavor profile.
• Spicy Southwest Chicken Pasta: Mix in roasted green chiles, jalapeños, and pepper jack cheese to create a zesty Tex-Mex version with bold, vibrant heat.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Blend in roasted garlic cloves, extra parmesan cheese, and a splash of heavy cream for a rich, indulgent texture that elevates the classic recipe.
• Light Veggie Loaded Chicken Pasta: Incorporate sautéed zucchini, spinach, and bell peppers to boost nutritional value and add colorful, fresh vegetables to the pasta.

FAQs About Cheesy Chicken Pasta

• What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne, rotini, or fusilli are excellent choices because they hold the creamy cheese sauce well and provide great texture in every bite.

• Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken from scratch?

Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saving option and adds delicious flavor to the dish.

• Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and ensure your cheese and other ingredients are certified gluten-free for a safe alternative.

• How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Consider mixing in some sautéed spinach, roasted bell peppers, or steamed broccoli to boost the nutritional value and add extra color and flavor to your cheesy chicken pasta.

Why Cheesy Chicken Pasta Is Always A Winner

• Quick and Easy Weeknight Wonder: This cheesy chicken pasta recipe transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy families craving a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Creamy Comfort Food Perfection: The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and rich, melty cheese creates a luxurious texture that hugs your taste buds and provides ultimate comfort in every single bite.
• Customizable Crowd-Pleaser: Easily adaptable to personal preferences, this dish welcomes additional vegetables, different cheese varieties, or protein swaps, making it a versatile recipe that keeps everyone at the table happy and satisfied.
• One-Pot Convenience Magic: Minimal cleanup and straightforward cooking technique mean you'll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying a delightful meal with your loved ones, turning dinner preparation into a stress-free experience.

Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe

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4.8 from 34 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy “cheesy chicken pasta” brings comfort directly from Italian kitchens with rich, melted cheese embracing tender chicken. Hearty ingredients combine seamlessly, promising a delightful meal that satisfies your deepest cravings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, diced

Pasta and Base:

• 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
• 2 cups (480 ml) milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)

Seasonings and Cheese:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (120 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for flavor)
• ¼ cup (60 ml) reserved pasta water (optional)
• Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Fill a generously sized pot with water, season with salt, and bring to a rolling boil.
2. Add pasta to the bubbling water, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, and cook until tender with a slight bite.
3. Carefully extract 1/4 cup of starchy cooking liquid before draining the pasta in a colander.
4. Transfer the cooked pasta to a waiting bowl, ensuring it remains warm and ready for the next preparation steps.
5. While the pasta cooks, dice the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
6. Season the chicken pieces with a blend of herbs and spices, ensuring each morsel is well-coated.
7. Heat a skillet over medium-high temperature and add a touch of oil to prevent sticking.
8. Sauté the seasoned chicken until golden brown and completely cooked through, with no pink remaining.
9. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic and onions until fragrant and translucent.
10. Sprinkle flour over the aromatics, stirring to create a light roux that will help thicken the sauce.
11. Gradually pour in cream and milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps and create a smooth base.
12. Incorporate a variety of cheeses, stirring until they melt completely and blend into a luxurious sauce.
13. Fold the cooked chicken into the creamy cheese sauce, ensuring even distribution.
14. Add the reserved pasta to the skillet, gently tossing to coat every strand with the rich sauce.
15. If the sauce seems too thick, introduce small amounts of reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
16. Garnish with fresh herbs and an additional sprinkle of cheese before serving hot.

Notes

• Opt for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary restrictions without compromising the dish’s creamy texture.
• Save the starchy pasta water as a secret weapon to help create a silky, smooth sauce that perfectly coats every noodle.
• Consider using rotisserie chicken for a quick time-saving hack that adds extra flavor and reduces overall cooking time.
• Experiment with different cheese combinations like sharp cheddar and mozzarella to customize the richness and depth of the cheesy sauce.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 590
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 680 mg
• Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 60 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 36 g
• Cholesterol: 95 mg