Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, packed with tender chicken, a rich creamy sauce, and plenty of melted cheese. This hearty one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners and is guaranteed to satisfy cravings for something warm, savory, and indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor
• A complete one-pot meal—minimal cleanup
• Kid-friendly and family-approved
• Easy to customize with your favorite pasta or add-ins
• Great for leftovers and meal prep

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
• Olive oil or butter
• Onion, finely chopped
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream or half-and-half
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Grated parmesan cheese
• Cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Italian seasoning or dried herbs (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the onion until soft, then add the garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the cream and let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
5. Add the cream cheese (if using) and stir until melted and smooth.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Stir to combine.
7. Add the shredded cheddar and parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and creamy.
8. Adjust seasoning as needed and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4–6
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker version
• Swap heavy cream with evaporated milk or whole milk for a lighter sauce
• Add vegetables like spinach, peas, or broccoli for extra nutrition
• Use different cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or fontina
• Spice it up with crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid overheating to prevent the sauce from separating.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, rotisserie or leftover chicken works great and saves time.

What type of pasta is best?

Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni works best to hold the creamy sauce.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s not ideal, as creamy sauces can separate upon thawing, but it can be frozen in a pinch.

How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?

Use freshly shredded cheese and add it off the heat or over low heat to avoid curdling.

Is cream cheese necessary?

No, but it adds an extra layer of creaminess. You can omit it if preferred.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure the broth and cheeses are gluten-free.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Whole milk is best for richness.

What’s the best cheese combo for this dish?

A mix of sharp cheddar and parmesan gives great flavor and creaminess.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes, chili powder, or a dash of hot sauce.

Can I add bacon?

Absolutely—crispy cooked bacon crumbles make a delicious addition.

Conclusion

Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta is the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re feeding a family or just want something satisfying at the end of a long day, this dish delivers cozy comfort in every bite. With countless ways to customize it, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

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