Description
This Cheesy Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish combining tender chicken pieces with perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce made from cheddar and Parmesan. Quick and easy to prepare on the stovetop, it’s a satisfying American main course perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Pasta
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or rotini)
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Garnish
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the roux and sauce base: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
- Add liquids and thicken the sauce: Gradually pour in the milk and chicken broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture is smooth and has thickened slightly, about 3–5 minutes.
- Incorporate cheese and seasoning: Lower the heat to low, then stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Combine pasta, chicken, and sauce: Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything evenly with the cheesy sauce.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top if using, then serve the pasta hot.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep time.
- Add steamed broccoli or spinach for extra vegetables and nutrition.
- You can swap cheddar cheese for mozzarella or a cheese blend for a different flavor profile.
