Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Name: Cheesy Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli); 2 cups chicken breast, diced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Transform your dinner routine with this creamy, cheesy chicken pasta that's loved by everyone! Featuring tender chicken pieces tossed in a rich, cheesy sauce and combined with al dente pasta, this dish is comfort food at its finest. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or impressing guests, it's quick to prepare and full of flavor. Don't miss out on this delightful and satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2025-11-11T16:24:27.181Z

This Cheesy Chicken Pasta recipe is not only easy to make but has all the flavors that you love in a comforting dish. It's perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends!

A Comfort Food Classic

Cheesy Chicken Pasta is a beloved dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. It combines tender chicken with creamy sauces and perfectly cooked pasta, creating a comforting meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing for various adaptations based on available ingredients or personal preferences.

Whether you are cooking for a family weeknight dinner or hosting friends, this dish sets the perfect tone. It's easy to prepare, ensuring that you spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen. Just imagine the smiles around your table as everyone digs into this cheesy delight.

Speedy Weeknight Dinner

One of the best features of Cheesy Chicken Pasta is how quickly it comes together. In just under 30 minutes, you can create a meal that is sure to impress. This makes it an ideal option for busy weeknights when time is limited but a hearty dinner is still desired. The simplicity of the steps means you can easily whip it up after a long day at work.

To save even more time, consider prepping your ingredients in advance. Dicing the chicken and measuring out the cheese and cream can cut down on your cooking time, allowing you to prepare this delicious dish even faster.

Make It Your Own

This Cheesy Chicken Pasta recipe is incredibly adaptable. You can elevate it by adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli, which not only enhance the flavor but also add a nutritional boost. Consider tossing in some sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist, or spice it up with a touch of cayenne or crushed red pepper for some heat.

Additionally, feel free to switch up the cheese for a different flavor profile. Parmesan adds a nutty touch, while pepper jack brings a bit of spice. The beauty of this dish lies in its flexibility, allowing you to tailor it to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
2 cups chicken breast, diced
1 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure all the ingredients are prepped and measured before you start cooking!

Cooking Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Make the Sauce

Lower the heat and add the heavy cream to the skillet with the chicken. Stir in the shredded cheese and cook until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Chicken Pasta!

Serving Suggestions

To make the most of your Cheesy Chicken Pasta, pair it with a fresh side salad or garlic bread. A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette perfectly complements the rich flavors of the pasta. For a comforting touch, serve with warm, buttery garlic bread to scoop up every last bit of the creamy sauce.

Additionally, consider a light wine pairing for an elevated dining experience. A chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, pairs beautifully with the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, you're in luck! Cheesy Chicken Pasta stores well and can be easily reheated. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or pasta water if it seems dry.

For longer storage, consider freezing the pasta. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and it can be stored for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove, ensuring the dish remains creamy and delicious.

Nutritional Information

Cheesy Chicken Pasta is not only satisfying but also offers a good balance of protein and carbohydrates. The chicken provides a lean source of protein, while the pasta gives you the energy needed for an active lifestyle. When adding vegetables, you enhance the nutritional value, incorporating fiber, vitamins, and minerals into the dish.

While it's indulgent, consider portion control to enjoy it as part of a balanced diet. You can also make it lighter by using lower-fat cheese or cream alternatives without sacrificing the flavor, making this recipe suitable for various dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape that you prefer!

→ Is this recipe freezable?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked pasta with sauce in an airtight container.