Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you’re searching for a dish that delivers pure comfort in every bite, Cheesy Chicken Pasta is the answer you’ve been craving. This vibrant, soul-warming pasta brings together tender chicken, a heavenly duo of cheeses, and a luscious, creamy sauce—all tossed with pasta and just the right mix of herbs and spices. Whether you’re out to impress guests or need a foolproof, cozy weeknight dinner, this Cheesy Chicken Pasta checks all the boxes for taste, texture, and easy, satisfying prep.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Cheesy Chicken Pasta is how a handful of go-to kitchen staples unite to create something truly special. Every ingredient brings its own flair to the party, helping you achieve that perfect balance of creamy, savory, and colorful.

• Pasta: Penne or rotini hold the sauce beautifully and add fun texture—pick your favorite shape!
• Chicken breast: Boneless, skinless pieces cook quickly and soak up all the cheesy goodness.
• Olive oil: The perfect base for sautéing, adding a subtle, robust flavor to the dish.
• Garlic: Just three cloves give an aromatic punch you’ll smell even before you take your first bite.
• Onion: Adds a gentle sweetness and depth, blending perfectly with the sauce.
• Canned diced tomatoes: These bring a juicy, tangy brightness and a pop of color.
• Chicken broth: Gives the sauce extra richness and allows the pasta flavors to come alive.
• Heavy cream: For that ultra-silky, luxurious texture everyone craves in Cheesy Chicken Pasta.
• Cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully into a creamy, bold-flavored sauce.
• Mozzarella cheese: Adds gooey, stretchy fun and mild creaminess.
• Italian seasoning: Whisks in classic herb notes for a true pasta-night feel.
• Paprika: Offers a whisper of smoky warmth and a pretty golden hue.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for waking up all those flavors—taste and adjust as needed!
• Fresh parsley: Sprinkled on top for a burst of color and freshness to finish.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a big pot of salted water, then cook your penne or rotini just until al dente, following the package directions. This keeps the pasta perfectly toothsome so each piece can hold up under that creamy, cheesy sauce. You’ll want to drain it well and set aside while you work on the next layers of flavor.

Step 2: Sear and Season the Chicken

Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then toss in your bite-sized chicken pieces. Sprinkle them with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning right away so every chunk gets a good dose of savoriness and warmth. Sauté the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes, until each piece has a golden crust and is cooked through, then move them out of the pan and onto a plate for the moment.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

No need to clean the skillet—those little browned bits are delicious flavor! Add the onion and let it soften for a few minutes, then add the garlic and give it just a minute or so. You’ll smell that irresistible scent as the kitchen fills with anticipation!

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring to loosen up any caramelized bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer—it’s laying the groundwork for the tangy, hearty base of the Cheesy Chicken Pasta sauce.

Step 5: Make It Creamy and Cheesy

After a minute or two of simmering, stir in the heavy cream and return your cooked chicken to the skillet. Gently lower the heat, then gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella, stirring the whole time. The cheese will melt into a rich, dreamy sauce you’ll want to taste-test right away!

Step 6: Toss and Finish

Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet, tossing to coat every single piece in that glorious, cheesy sauce. Once everything is beautifully combined and piping hot, your Cheesy Chicken Pasta is ready for its big reveal.

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds color and a pop of freshness, making your Cheesy Chicken Pasta look as good as it tastes. If you like a little extra flair, a dusting of grated Parmesan never hurts either.

Side Dishes

Balance out the creamy richness with a crisp green salad tossed with a zippy vinaigrette, or serve next to steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus for a burst of color. Classic garlic bread is always a hit for soaking up every last drop of cheesy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Cheesy Chicken Pasta straight from a pretty skillet for rustic flair, or scoop it into individual ramekins for personal-sized servings. For a fun twist, broil a little extra cheese on top until golden and bubbly, or layer into a casserole and bake for an irresistibly melty, oven-kissed finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Cheesy Chicken Pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors meld overnight, making re-heated servings just as delightful for a quick lunch or cozy next-day dinner.

Freezing

You can freeze cooled portions of Cheesy Chicken Pasta for up to two months. Be sure to use freezer-safe containers and, for best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the creamy sauce and tender pasta texture.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through for even heating. Garnish with fresh parsley to refresh the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While penne and rotini are classic picks for Cheesy Chicken Pasta, you can swap in any short pasta you like—rigatoni, farfalle, or even fusilli all capture the sauce beautifully.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that your chicken broth and seasonings are gluten-free. The rest of the Cheesy Chicken Pasta recipe remains deliciously the same!

Can I add vegetables to the recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to stir in some spinach, peas, or even sun-dried tomatoes toward the end of cooking. Veggies add great color and nutrition without taking away from that creamy, cheesy core.

What’s the best way to make it ahead?

Prepare the Cheesy Chicken Pasta up to the point of tossing everything together, then refrigerate the sauce and pasta separately. Combine and reheat just before serving for the freshest flavor and texture.

Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?

Pre-cooked or leftover chicken works beautifully! Just cut into bite-sized pieces, stir it in with the sauce step, and allow to warm through before adding the cheese and pasta.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Chicken Pasta is the kind of feel-good recipe that never fails to gather folks around the table. With its creamy sauce, cheesy pull, and savory chicken, it’s a must-try whether you’re brand new to the kitchen or a seasoned home cook. Give it a whirl and share the love—once you try it, it might just become your own signature comfort dish!

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