Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe

Craving a cheesy, comforting meal that’s both hearty and easy to make? This Cheesy Chicken Pasta recipe is exactly what you need! Packed with tender chicken, pasta, a creamy cheese sauce, and loads of flavor, this dish is a perfect choice for busy weeknights or when you want to indulge in some comfort food. With simple ingredients and a quick cooking process, you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in no time. Keep reading for the full recipe, substitution ideas, and helpful tips to make this Cheesy Chicken Pasta a regular favorite in your household!

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What Is Cheesy Chicken Pasta?

Cheesy Chicken Pasta is a creamy, one-pan dish that combines tender chicken pieces with perfectly cooked pasta, all smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s similar to a mac and cheese but with the added heartiness of chicken and a few extra flavors like garlic, seasonings, and even veggies if you like. This pasta dish is comforting, filling, and family-friendly, making it a great option for a quick weeknight meal.

Ingredients List for Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Cheesy Chicken Pasta:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni work great)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup heavy cream (or substitute with half-and-half)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese (optional, for added richness)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

These ingredients are simple and easy to find, making this a go-to recipe that you can whip up with pantry staples.

Substitutions and Variations

Cheesy Chicken Pasta is highly customizable! Here are some great substitution ideas to make the dish your own:

• Pasta options: You can use any short pasta like penne, rotini, rigatoni, or even macaroni. For a low-carb option, try using zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
• Cheese varieties: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to swap it out or mix it with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or any cheese that melts well.
• Protein swaps: You can use cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken for an easier version, or swap chicken for cooked turkey, ground beef, or sausage.
• Dairy alternatives: For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or a plant-based milk and cheese for a dairy-free version.
• Add veggies: You can add vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers to sneak in some extra nutrition and texture.

These options make the recipe adaptable to suit your family’s preferences or what you have on hand.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your Cheesy Chicken Pasta:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (typically 8-10 minutes). Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s cooked through and no longer pink. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if necessary. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

Stir in the chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream to the skillet with the onion and garlic. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce

Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet. Stir everything together until the pasta and chicken are well-coated with the creamy cheese sauce. Let the pasta simmer for a minute or two so the flavors can combine.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Cook Cheesy Chicken Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick summary of how to make Cheesy Chicken Pasta:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain.
2. Sauté the chicken in a skillet until cooked through, then set aside.
3. Sauté onions and garlic in the same skillet.
4. Make the cheese sauce by simmering chicken broth, milk, and cream, then adding shredded cheese.
5. Combine the pasta, chicken, and sauce in the skillet.
6. Garnish and serve with fresh parsley.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making Cheesy Chicken Pasta:

• Overcooking the pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta until just al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy when mixed with the cheese sauce.
• Curdling the sauce: To avoid curdling, keep the heat on low when adding dairy (milk, cream, and cheese) to the sauce. High heat can cause the sauce to separate.
• Not seasoning enough: Don’t forget to season both the chicken and the cheese sauce. Adding enough salt, pepper, and garlic powder helps bring out the flavors.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Cheesy Chicken Pasta is a comforting, family-style dish, but there are ways to elevate the presentation.

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Pasta

This pasta dish is best served hot, straight from the skillet. Pair it with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a more indulgent dinner, you could even sprinkle some extra cheese on top and broil the dish for a minute or two to create a bubbly, golden crust.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Chicken Pasta

• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, basil, or chives brightens up the dish and adds a fresh pop of color.
• Add a side: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables, roasted asparagus, or a green salad to balance out the richness of the pasta.
• Use a serving dish: Serve the pasta in a large serving dish for a family-style presentation, or plate individual portions for a neater look.

Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe Tips

Here are a few tips to help you make the best Cheesy Chicken Pasta every time:

• Make it ahead: You can prepare the entire dish in advance and refrigerate it before serving. When ready to serve, simply reheat the pasta on the stovetop or in the oven.
• Freeze for later: This dish freezes well! To freeze, let the pasta cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Add a crunchy topping: For added texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top of the pasta and bake it for a few minutes to create a crispy crust.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken in Cheesy Chicken Pasta?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option. Simply shred the cooked rotisserie chicken and add it to the pasta during the final steps.

2. Can I make Cheesy Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Reheat on the stovetop or in the oven when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I freeze Cheesy Chicken Pasta?
Yes, this pasta dish freezes well. After cooling, transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

4. How do I reheat Cheesy Chicken Pasta?
Reheat the pasta on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to help loosen the sauce. You can also reheat it in the microwave.

5. Can I add vegetables to Cheesy Chicken Pasta?
Definitely! You can add vegetables like broccoli, spinach, bell peppers, or peas to the pasta for extra texture and nutrition.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Chicken Pasta recipe is the ultimate comfort food that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s an easy, weeknight dinner that the whole family will love, with tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich cheese sauce that comes together in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s highly customizable, so you can add your favorite veggies, cheeses, or even swap the chicken for another protein.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of Cheesy Chicken Pasta tonight!

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