Cheesy Chicken Pasta

This Cheesy Chicken Pasta recipe is a comforting, creamy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknight meals.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Add veggies or switch up the cheeses to suit your taste.
• One-Pot Option: Reduce cleanup by preparing it all in one pan.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for meal prepping or leftovers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Pasta of choice (penne, rotini, or macaroni work well)
• Butter or olive oil
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Heavy cream or half-and-half
• Chicken broth
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Prepare the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Combine: Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Stir in steamed broccoli, spinach, or roasted bell peppers for added nutrition.
• Protein Swap: Use shrimp, turkey, or tofu instead of chicken.
• Cheese Options: Experiment with Parmesan, gouda, or cream cheese for a unique flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free pasta.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken can save time and works perfectly in this recipe.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it ahead and reheat when ready to serve. Add a bit of liquid to keep the sauce creamy.

3. Can I freeze Cheesy Chicken Pasta?

Freezing is possible, but the sauce may separate slightly when thawed. Reheat gently while stirring to recombine.

4. What’s the best cheese for this recipe?

Cheddar and mozzarella are great choices, but feel free to mix in Parmesan or gouda for added depth.

5. How can I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

6. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce may be thinner. To thicken, mix a little cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the sauce.

7. What kind of pasta works best?

Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or rigatoni work well because they hold the sauce nicely.

8. Can I make it healthier?

Use whole-grain pasta, low-fat cheese, and reduce the cream to make it lighter.

9. How can I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Ensure the cheese is shredded finely and added to the sauce gradually while stirring.

10. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, cook the chicken and sauce in a slow cooker, then add pre-cooked pasta just before serving.

Conclusion

Cheesy Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for a hearty meal that satisfies the entire family. With simple ingredients and endless customization options, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Try it today and enjoy the delicious comfort of homemade pasta!

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