Get ready to fall head over heels for this Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe! Imagine tender pieces of chicken mingling with perfectly cooked penne, all generously coated in a creamy, gooey cheese sauce that’ll have you scraping the plate. This dish is pure comfort, packed with inviting aromas and flavors that hit that perfect sweet spot between homestyle nostalgia and weeknight convenience. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, ready in just about 30 minutes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe lies in its straightforward list of kitchen staples. Each ingredient brings something special—flavor, texture, or vibrant color—that helps transform everyday fare into a dish everyone looks forward to again and again.
- Penne Pasta: Classic penne tubes soak up the cheesy sauce beautifully, giving every bite the perfect sauce-to-pasta ratio.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Lean chicken pieces cook up quickly and remain juicy, providing hearty protein throughout.
- Olive Oil: A little olive oil browns our chicken to perfection and adds just the right hint of richness.
- Salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors into focus; don’t skip seasoning each step!
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle kick and warmth to balance the creamy sauce.
- Garlic Powder: Instantly amps up the savory profile with classic garlicky undertones.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: This is what makes the sauce super cheesy and gives it that signature golden hue.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a nutty depth and nicely complements the cheddar.
- Milk: The secret to a silky, creamy sauce—whole or 2% milk works best.
- Chicken Broth: Enhances every savory note and makes the sauce extra flavorful.
- All-Purpose Flour: Helps thicken the sauce just enough so it clings to every noodle.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds a subtle richness to the roux and keeps the sauce smooth.
- Paprika: Brings a dash of color and mild smokiness—plus, it seasons the chicken beautifully.
- Onion Powder: A pinch blended into the sauce offers a gentle sweetness and depth.
- Frozen Peas (Optional): For bursts of color and freshness, peas are a wonderful addition (and a sneaky way to add veggies!).
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil—this ensures every noodle is seasoned from the inside out. Toss in your penne and cook until perfectly al dente, according to the package directions. Once the pasta is ready, drain and set it aside; you’ll want it waiting in the wings for when the cheesy magic begins.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
While the pasta bubbles away, grab your chicken pieces and sprinkle them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, and sear the chicken for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden on the outside and cooked through. Set the chicken aside—don’t worry, it’ll make a grand reappearance soon!
Step 3: Whip Up the Cheesy Sauce
In the same well-loved skillet (no need to clean it out; those tasty brown bits are flavor gold!), melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour, whisking constantly for about a minute to make a smooth roux. Gradually pour in the milk and chicken broth, whisking the whole time to banish lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens to a luscious, creamy sauce—this usually takes just 3–4 minutes.
Step 4: Cheese it Up
Now, for the best part: fold in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until both melt completely, turning your sauce smooth and gloriously cheesy. Add the onion powder and, if you’re feeling veggie-friendly, toss in the frozen peas for a pop of green and sweetness.
Step 5: Bring Everything Together
Return the cooked chicken and pasta to your skillet of dreamy sauce. Gently toss with a spatula or tongs until every morsel is coated and everything is evenly mingled. Let it all heat together for another minute or two, then serve warm and stand by for the compliments!
How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley, a pinch of extra Parmesan, and a crack of black pepper are simple yet showstopping ways to finish your Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe. If you like a little color, a sprinkle of paprika right before serving adds a lovely touch.
Side Dishes
Balance out the richness with a crisp green salad tossed in a zippy vinaigrette, or serve with steamed broccoli or roasted veggies on the side. For the carb-lovers, a chunk of warm garlic bread is always a welcome addition.
Creative Ways to Present
Try spooning the pasta into individual ramekins, topping with extra cheese, and broiling for a bubbly, golden finish. Alternatively, serve family-style in a large, colorful dish at the center of the table for that cozy, shared-dinner feel. Kids love it twirled onto big serving spoons for fun, easy self-service!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe holds up great in the fridge. Transfer cooled pasta to an airtight container and store for up to 3 days. The sauce might thicken as it sits, but don’t worry—a splash of milk during reheating will bring it right back.
Freezing
To freeze, let the pasta cool completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and seal tightly. The Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
For stovetop reheating, add a few tablespoons of milk to the pasta in a pan over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot and creamy. In the microwave, reheat in a covered dish on medium power, stirring once or twice and adding a little milk as needed. Avoid reheating at too high a heat to keep the cheese sauce from separating.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely! While penne is classic for holding creamy sauces, any short pasta like rotini, fusilli, or even shells will do nicely in this Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe.
What kind of cheese works best?
Cheddar brings rich meltiness and color, but feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even smoked Gouda for a twist on the Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe’s flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to create a version of the Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe that’s just as comforting and delicious.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely. Alongside peas, feel free to stir in blanched broccoli, baby spinach, or diced bell peppers to pack even more colors and nutrients into your Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe.
Is this recipe spicy?
It’s mild as written, making it super family-friendly. But if you like a little heat, you can toss in some red pepper flakes or use a pepper jack cheese for a zesty spin!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a meal that’s comforting, quick, and irresistibly cheesy, this Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe is your new go-to. It’s sure to win hearts at your table, so don’t wait—try it out tonight and let your kitchen fill with smiles!
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Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a comforting and cheesy delight with this Cheesy Chicken Pasta recipe. Tender chicken and flavorful cheeses come together in a creamy sauce, making this dish a family favorite.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta
Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil penne pasta in salted water, then drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Season and cook chicken until browned and cooked through.
- Make the Sauce: Prepare a roux, then add milk, broth, and cheeses until smooth.
- Combine: Mix in onion powder, peas, chicken, and pasta. Heat through and serve.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
- Swap in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different cheesy flavor.
- Add spinach or broccoli for extra veggies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 530mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
