Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe

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If comfort food had a star player, this Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe would surely be the champion of weeknight dinners. Imagine tender chicken pieces bathed in a creamy, cheesy sauce that hugs every spiral of perfectly cooked pasta — it’s an irresistible combination of flavors and textures that warms the soul. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving something cozy just for yourself, this dish brings together simple, everyday ingredients into a spectacular meal that feels like a delicious celebration in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might seem straightforward, but each one plays a vital role in making this Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe a standout dish. From the juicy chicken to the sun-dried tomatoes that add a pop of color and flavor, every element works together to create a perfect balance of taste and texture.

• Chicken breast, 500g: The star protein, sliced thin to cook quickly and stay juicy.
• Olive oil, 2 Tbsp: Adds richness and helps the herbs adhere to the chicken perfectly.
• Dried mixed herbs, 2 Tbsp: A fragrant blend that seasons the chicken beautifully.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to bring out all the flavors.
• Spiral pasta, 500g: Twisted shapes that trap the luscious sauce on every bite.
• Butter, 40g: Creates a silky base for the sauce and enriches its flavor.
• Onion, finely diced (1): Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
• Carrot, finely diced (1): Brings a subtle crunch and natural sweetness.
• Garlic, 2 cloves, crushed: Infuses the sauce with its irresistible aroma.
• Sun-dried tomatoes, 100g sliced: Packs a tangy, concentrated burst of flavor and vibrant color.
• Flour, 2 Tbsp: The magic thickening agent for that luscious creamy sauce.
• Milk, 2 cups: Smooths and stretches the sauce into velvety perfection.
• Cheese, 100g grated (cheddar or tasty): Melts through the sauce adding richness and gooey cheesiness.
• Reserved pasta water, 1 cup: Helps achieve the perfect sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
• Parmesan cheese, 20g grated: A nutty finishing touch for serving.
• Fresh herbs, for serving: Brighten and freshen the final dish with a delicate green touch.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by slicing the chicken breast horizontally into thin, 1cm pieces so they cook evenly and quickly. Then, coat each piece with olive oil and sprinkle on the dried mixed herbs along with salt and pepper. This seasoning step ensures every bite of chicken is flavorful and aromatic, setting the tone for the entire dish.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat your frying pan to a high temperature and grill the chicken strips for about 4 minutes per side, achieving a beautiful golden crust while locking in the juiciness. Once cooked through, remove the chicken and let it cool slightly before shredding it with forks later. This simple technique is key to silky, tender pieces that blend seamlessly with the sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spiral pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Don’t forget to scoop out a cup of pasta water before draining — this starchy water is pure magic for adjusting the sauce’s texture, giving your Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe that perfect creaminess.

Step 4: Start the Sauce Base

Reduce the heat to low and return the pan to the stove. Melt butter along with a little oil from the sun-dried tomato jar for an extra depth of flavor. Then, sauté the finely diced onion and carrot until softened, releasing sweetness and fragrance that will form the foundation of your sauce.

Step 5: Build the Sauce

Add crushed garlic and sliced sun-dried tomatoes to the softened vegetables, stirring to combine. Sprinkle the flour over this mixture and cook it for about a minute to cook out the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the milk while stirring constantly to thicken the mixture into a creamy, dreamy sauce that is the heart of the Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Cheese

Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and stir them into the bubbling sauce, then fold in the grated cheddar (or your preferred cheese). This step turns the sauce luxuriously cheesy and flavorful, coating every ingredient in melty goodness that you won’t be able to resist.

Step 7: Adjust Consistency

If your sauce feels too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until it reaches your ideal creamy consistency. Taste again and tweak with salt and pepper as you wish—this is the moment to fine-tune the flavors and make it just right.

Step 8: Finish and Serve

Toss the cooked pasta into the pan, stirring thoroughly so every spiral is covered in that cheesy chicken sauce. Serve hot immediately, topped generously with grated parmesan and a scattering of fresh herbs for a beautiful pop of color and fresh flavor.

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, or chives add a vibrant finish and a bit of brightness to the rich sauce. A final dusting of parmesan cheese not only adds flavor but also creates an appealing, slightly crispy top if you broil it briefly before serving.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with a simple green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or some garlic bread for dipping into every last bit of sauce. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus also complement the cheesy chicken pasta beautifully, adding healthy crunch and color.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve in individual oven-safe dishes and top with extra cheese before broiling briefly to create a bubbling, golden crust. Alternatively, present it family-style in a large vibrant bowl with fresh herbs sprinkled on top, encouraging everyone to dig right in and enjoy the communal experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe in an airtight container once it has completely cooled. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners during a busy week.

Freezing

This dish freezes nicely, too. Store portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. Frozen portions can last up to 3 months, ready to be reheated when you crave that comforting cheesy goodness without the fuss.

Reheating

When reheating, gently warm the pasta in a pan over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently until heated through to keep the sauce creamy and avoid drying out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for the Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! While spiral pasta is great for capturing the sauce, penne, fusilli, or even shells work beautifully. Just aim for shapes that hold onto the sauce well to get the most flavor in every bite.

What cheese works best in this recipe?

Cheddar or tasty cheese are excellent choices for a melty, rich sauce. Feel free to mix in mozzarella for extra stretchiness or even Gruyère for a nutty depth. Parmesan is best reserved for finishing to maintain its sharpness.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms, roasted pumpkin, or even plant-based chicken alternatives. The cheesy sauce will still be divine and full of comforting flavor.

Is the pasta water really necessary?

Definitely! The reserved pasta water contains starch that helps loosen the sauce without watering down the flavor, giving your Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe that irresistibly smooth, creamy texture.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add a pinch of chili flakes while sautéing the onion and carrot or mix some diced jalapeños into the sauce. This subtle heat pairs wonderfully with the cheese and chicken, adding a fun twist to the traditional flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe is a comforting and delightful dish that will quickly become a cherished part of your dinner roster. It’s straightforward to prepare, uses ingredients you likely already have, and delivers big on flavor—perfect for sharing with friends, family, or indulging in a satisfying meal any night of the week. Go ahead, give it a try, and watch it turn into your new favorite!

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