Description
This cheesy chicken pasta recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights! Loaded with tender chicken, creamy cheese, and your favorite pasta, this is a dish the whole family will devour. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready to serve.
It’s comfort food at its finest, and it’s so simple to make. Save this recipe now and add it to your weeknight meal rotation!
Ingredients
- Chicken breast, diced
- Pasta of your choice
- Cheddar cheese, shredded
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Garlic, minced
- Heavy cream
- Chicken broth
- Onion, chopped
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
- Italian seasoning
Instructions
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This typically takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. Remember to reserve a cup of the pasta water, as it will help create a luscious sauce later on.
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add bite-sized pieces of chicken breast and season with salt, pepper, and your choice of spices. Cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. The enticing aroma of the chicken will make your kitchen feel cozy and inviting. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it warm.
In the same skillet, add a touch more olive oil if needed, and toss in minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté them for a few minutes until they become fragrant and translucent. This is the moment the magic begins! Now, pour in some heavy cream and let it simmer gently. Stir frequently to blend the flavors—this will be the creamy base of your sauce.
Stir in a generous amount of shredded cheese, like mozzarella or cheddar, allowing it to melt into the sauce. The cheese will make your sauce irresistible. Once completely melted, throw the cooked chicken and pasta back into the skillet. Mix everything together, ensuring every piece is coated with the creamy sauce. If it seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Taste your pasta and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You might want a sprinkle of garlic powder, basil, or an extra pinch of salt. Serve the cheesy chicken pasta hot, garnished with fresh herbs or additional cheese on top. The vibrant colors and rich aroma will make your dish simply irresistible. Enjoy your colorful plate of goodness!
Notes
Cooking Tips
Make sure to keep an eye on the pasta while it cooks to achieve that perfect al dente texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using different types of pasta. They all come with unique textures and flavors that can elevate your dish.
Ingredient Substitutes
Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even a plant-based alternative for a delicious twist. The key is to maintain the creamy sauce, so choose a protein that complements that aspect well.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so tasty!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of water or cream to bring back that creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes