Rich, cheesy, and perfectly satisfying, this Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food. With tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious white cheddar cheese sauce, this dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or even impressing guests.

I stumbled upon this recipe while trying to use up some leftover chicken and a block of sharp white cheddar, and the result was a new favorite in our home. It’s become a staple on our table, especially on nights when we crave something indulgent yet easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta Recipe

This recipe checks all the boxes for a delicious and reliable dinner. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Quick and Easy: This dish is ready in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
Restaurant-Quality Flavor: The sharp white cheddar gives the sauce a gourmet taste that feels like dining out.
Family-Friendly: Creamy and cheesy pasta is always a hit, even with picky eaters.
Customizable: Add vegetables, switch up the protein, or play with seasonings to make it your own.

Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become a new favorite in your home!

Ingredients Notes

This recipe uses simple yet flavorful ingredients to create a rich and creamy pasta dish. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. Cooked and shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut if you’re short on time.
Pasta: Penne, rigatoni, or cavatappi are ideal for holding onto the creamy sauce. You can also use any pasta shape you have on hand.
White Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp or extra-sharp white cheddar for the best flavor. Grate it fresh for a smoother sauce – pre-shredded cheese can make the sauce grainy.
Heavy Cream: This creates the luxurious texture of the sauce. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or milk, though the sauce won’t be as thick.
Chicken Broth: Adds a savory depth to the sauce while thinning it slightly.
Garlic and Shallots: These aromatics form the flavorful base of the dish. If shallots aren’t available, a small onion works as a substitute.
Butter and Flour: These are the key ingredients for making a roux, which thickens the sauce to perfection.
Paprika: A pinch of smoked or sweet paprika enhances the flavor of the chicken and adds subtle warmth.

How to Make Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta

Making this dish is straightforward, and the results are restaurant-quality. Here’s how to prepare it step by step:

Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for the sauce.
Cook the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice or shred.
Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped shallots, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the sautéed aromatics, stirring constantly to make a roux. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps form. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in the grated white cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Everything:
Toss the cooked pasta and chicken into the skillet with the cheese sauce, stirring to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley or additional grated cheese for a finishing touch. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Storage Options

This dish is perfect for leftovers, and here’s how to store and reheat it:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: While the sauce may separate slightly after freezing, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore its creamy texture. Alternatively, microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to customize it to your taste:

Add Vegetables: Stir in sautéed broccoli, spinach, or peas for added color and nutrition.
Use a Different Cheese: Swap the white cheddar for Gruyère, Parmesan, or Fontina for a new flavor twist.
Try a Different Protein: Substitute grilled shrimp, crispy bacon, or even tofu for the chicken.
Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and a mix of chicken breast and zucchini noodles for a lower-calorie option.

With endless possibilities, this recipe is as adaptable as it is delicious.

This Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta is the ultimate combination of indulgence and simplicity. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. What will you add to make it your own? Let me know in the comments below!