Print

Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Cheesy Chicken Pasta
Print Recipe

Cheesy Chicken Pasta is a comforting, creamy, and savory meal combining tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, melty cheese sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is family-friendly, versatile, and perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. It features a delicious blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese with garlic and herbs, all cooked mostly in one pan for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons butter, divided

Pasta and Sauce

  • 8 oz penne or rotini pasta
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or cream cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheese blend (mozzarella and cheddar)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
  2. Sauté garlic and build the sauce base: Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining butter if needed. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream (or cream cheese), stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  3. Cook the pasta: Add the pasta directly into the simmering sauce, making sure it is submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender but still al dente, approximately 10-12 minutes. The pasta will absorb the broth, enhancing the flavor.
  4. Add cheese and chicken: Lower the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese (if not added earlier) and shredded cheese blend until melted and smooth. Return the cooked chicken to the pot and gently mix to coat everything evenly with the cheesy sauce.
  5. Final touches: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top for color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm and melty.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for a smoother melting sauce.
  • Cook pasta al dente to avoid mushy texture and to balance the creamy sauce.
  • Season in layers by salting the chicken, broth, and occasionally the pasta.
  • Melt cheese on low heat to prevent clumping or becoming grainy.
  • If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, milk, or broth to adjust consistency.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cheesy chicken pasta, creamy chicken pasta, quick chicken dinner, one pot pasta, family-friendly meals

Find it online: https://marycorner.com/cheesy-chicken-pasta/