Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe

Get ready to fall head-over-heels for Cheesy Chicken Pasta! This dish checks all the right boxes: quick, ultra-satisfying, and utterly cozy. Bite-sized pieces of golden chicken and tender pasta are tossed in a dreamy blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan, all cloaked in a silky homemade sauce—no canned soup in sight. Whether you’re wrangling picky eaters or just craving some feel-good comfort food, Cheesy Chicken Pasta is guaranteed to be a new weeknight favorite.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how a handful of kitchen staples transforms into such a rich, satisfying meal. Each ingredient brings something special, from cheesy depth to irresistible creaminess—so don’t skip a thing!

• Pasta (12 oz penne or rotini): Perfect shapes for clinging to all that glorious sauce and providing hearty texture.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For sautéing the chicken and getting a lovely golden sear.
• Boneless skinless chicken breast (1 pound, diced): Tender bites make every forkful hearty and satisfying.
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Adds mellow aromatic warmth without overpowering.
• Onion powder (½ teaspoon): For subtle savory flavor that melds beautifully into the sauce.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances every other ingredient’s best qualities.
• Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Gives the dish gentle heat and a little kick.
• Butter (2 tablespoons): Creates the creamy base for your cheese sauce.
• All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Thickens the sauce just right—no runny pasta here!
• Milk (2 cups): Delivers that luscious, smooth body to every gooey bite.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Brings bold, classic cheesiness and gorgeous color.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (½ cup): Adds melty stretch that makes the dish irresistible.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup): Punches up the umami and depth, balancing out the sharper cheeses.
• Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon, optional): A tangy secret weapon for rounding out the sauce flavors.
• Chopped parsley (for garnish): Brightens up the finished pasta and adds a fresh pop of color.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package directions until just al dente. Don’t forget to stir occasionally—this helps the pasta cook evenly and prevents sticking. Once done, drain and set aside, but keep it warm so it’s oven-ready for tossing into the sauce.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, sprinkling them with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Let the pieces cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes to develop that lovely golden crust, then stir occasionally until cooked through, juicy, and lightly golden—about 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely to keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Roux

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once bubbling, whisk in the all-purpose flour and let it cook for about a minute. This small step cooks out the “raw” flour taste and lays the foundation for that thick, creamy cheese sauce you’re about to create.

Step 4: Whisk Up the Cheese Sauce

Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to keep the sauce smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Keep stirring for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Turn the heat down to low, then add in the cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Dijon mustard (if using). Stir until every shred of cheese is melted and the sauce looks silky and, honestly, impossible to resist.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

Add the cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet. Toss everything together so every piece of pasta and chicken gets that glorious cheesy coating. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness, then serve your Cheesy Chicken Pasta piping hot for maximum comfort and flavor.

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley goes a long way to brighten up your Cheesy Chicken Pasta. For an extra flourish, try a pinch of red pepper flakes, extra Parmesan, or even a drizzle of good olive oil. Don’t underestimate the power of a simple garnish to turn a comforting dish into an eye-catching centerpiece!

Side Dishes

Pair your Cheesy Chicken Pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in a zippy vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for balance. Garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette is perfect for swiping up every last bit of that creamy sauce—trust me, you won’t want any left behind!

Creative Ways to Present

For family-style fun, serve Cheesy Chicken Pasta in a big, shallow bowl and let everyone dig in with serving spoons. For a dinner party twist, spoon individual portions into ramekins, top with a little extra cheese, and run them under the broiler for a golden, bubbling finish. Or, turn leftovers into the ultimate baked pasta by topping with breadcrumbs and baking until crispy and golden.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cheesy Chicken Pasta keeps beautifully! Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making lunch the next day absolutely crave-worthy.

Freezing

You can freeze portions of the pasta for up to two months. Let the Cheesy Chicken Pasta cool completely, scoop into freezer-safe containers, and label. For the best texture, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating—just remember, the sauce may need a splash of milk to bring back its creaminess.

Reheating

When you’re ready to reheat, transfer your Cheesy Chicken Pasta to a saucepan or the microwave. Add a tablespoon or two of milk, stir, and heat gently until warmed through. This little step revives that luscious, creamy sauce so it tastes just as fresh as the day you made it!

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! Penne or rotini work wonderfully, but shells, fusilli, or even elbows will soak up the sauce deliciously well. Use what you have on hand and make it your own.

Is there a way to add vegetables to Cheesy Chicken Pasta?

Definitely—stir in cooked broccoli florets, spinach, or peas when you toss everything together at the end. Leftover roasted veggies love this cheesy embrace!

Can I use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken?

Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. Just add the shredded chicken at the same step as the cooked pasta, letting it warm up in the cheesy sauce. It saves time and still tastes amazing!

How can I make this dish a little lighter?

For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cheese and swap whole milk for low-fat. You can also use whole wheat pasta for extra fiber. The sauce will still be creamy and comforting, just a bit lighter on the calories.

Is Cheesy Chicken Pasta spicy?

No, this version is family-friendly and mild, but you can easily add a pinch of cayenne or some red pepper flakes if you love a bit of heat. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste!

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for an easy, crowd-pleasing meal that brings big smiles and happy bellies, Cheesy Chicken Pasta is your answer. Each creamy, cheesy bite is packed with comfort and flavor—your family will ask for it again and again. Roll up your sleeves and give it a try tonight!

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