Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta Recipe
This Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta recipe is a comforting and cheesy dish featuring tender chicken, white cheddar sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a quick and satisfying meal, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using), and cook until golden and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in white cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the cheese sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Substitute white cheddar with sharp cheddar or Gruyère for a flavor twist.
- Add steamed broccoli or spinach for extra veggies.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 530
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg