Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe: A Family Favorite

Weeknight dinners demand something quick, delicious, and satisfying like this cheesy chicken pasta recipe that comes together in a flash.

Creamy cheese sauce coats tender pasta and juicy chicken pieces perfectly.

Every bite promises comfort and flavor without hours of kitchen work.

The combination of simple ingredients creates a meal everyone will love.

Melted cheese brings warmth and richness to this classic dish.

Busy home cooks can whip up this crowd-pleasing recipe in under 30 minutes.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, you can swap pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or farfalle based on your preference or what you have in your pantry.

• How can I make this dish healthier?

Use low-fat cream cheese, skim milk, and add extra vegetables like spinach or broccoli to boost nutrition.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This cheesy chicken pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheats well in the microwave or on the stovetop.

• Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Definitely! Try using shredded turkey, canned tuna, or even cooked white beans for a vegetarian option.

Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole Highlights

• Whip Up Comfort Food: Satisfy cravings with this incredibly creamy, cheesy chicken pasta that hugs your taste buds and brings instant warmth to the dinner table.
• Speedy Weeknight Winner: Prepare a delicious meal in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for busy families who want a quick and satisfying dinner without complicated cooking techniques.
• Customize Your Dish: Easily adapt the recipe by switching up cheeses, adding vegetables, or using different protein options to match your family's preferences and keep mealtime exciting.
• One-Pan Simplicity: Minimize kitchen cleanup with this single-skillet recipe that combines all ingredients seamlessly, reducing washing up and making cooking stress-free.

Ingredients For Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole

• Pasta: A staple ingredient that provides the base for this creamy chicken dish.
• Chicken: Protein-rich meat that adds substance and flavor to the recipe.
• Cream Cheese: Creates a rich and smooth base for the sauce.
• Cheddar Cheese: Adds sharp, tangy flavor and melty texture to the dish.

• Milk, Butter: Help create a creamy and smooth sauce consistency.

• Garlic, Salt, Pepper, Parsley: Enhance the overall flavor and add a fresh touch to the dish.

Making Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole At Home

Step 1: Boil Pasta Perfectly

Grab your favorite pasta and cook it following the package instructions.

Once it’s tender and delightful, drain the water and set the pasta aside, ready for its cheesy transformation.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic in Butter

Heat a large skillet and melt butter over medium heat.

Toss in minced garlic and let it dance and sizzle until its aroma fills your kitchen with mouthwatering promise.

Step 3: Create Creamy Cheese Base

Drop in cream cheese and milk, whisking enthusiastically until the mixture becomes silky smooth and luxuriously combined.

Watch the magic happen as the ingredients blend together.

Step 4: Melt Cheddar Goodness

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese into the skillet and stir continuously.

Let the cheese melt completely, creating a rich, velvety sauce that promises pure comfort.

• Cream cheese
• Milk
• Cheddar cheese

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Pasta

Add cooked chicken and your perfectly prepared pasta into the cheesy sauce.

Gently stir to ensure every single piece gets coated in the delectable creamy mixture.

Step 6: Season and Elevate

Enhance the flavors with salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting until the dish sings with deliciousness.

Optional: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

Step 7: Serve and Savor

Dish out this comforting meal while it’s piping hot.

Prepare for a symphony of cheesy, creamy goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Tips For Extra Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole

• Choose medium-sized pasta shapes like penne or rotini that hold sauce beautifully and create delicious pockets of cheesy goodness.
• Allow cheese to melt slowly over low-medium heat to prevent separation and achieve a smooth, silky sauce consistency.
• Use rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken for quick assembly and maximum flavor infusion into the creamy pasta.
• Swap dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like cashew cream, nutritional yeast, and dairy-free cheese for lactose-intolerant friends.
• Sprinkle fresh herbs like chives or green onions on top to add brightness and elevate the dish's overall taste profile.

Chicken Pasta Casserole Variations Worth Trying

• Gluten-Free Comfort: Replace regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and ensure all cheese brands are certified gluten-free for celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Protein Power Swap: Substitute chicken with grilled tofu or plant-based chicken alternatives for vegetarian protein lovers seeking similar creamy texture.
• Low-Carb Veggie Version: Use spiralized zucchini noodles instead of pasta and swap milk with heavy cream to reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining rich flavor.
• Greek Yogurt Lighter Option: Replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt and use half the amount of cheddar cheese for a protein-packed, lower-fat rendition of the classic recipe.

Serving Up Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole

• Fresh Herb Sprinkle: Chop fresh parsley, basil, or chives to add a bright, zesty flavor and colorful garnish on top of the creamy pasta.
• Family-Style Feast: Serve in a large communal dish with extra grated cheese on the side, letting everyone scoop their own generous portion.
• Side Salad Companion: Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in light vinaigrette to balance the rich, cheesy pasta and add fresh crunch.
• Wine Pairing Magic: Pour a chilled glass of unoaked chardonnay or sauvignon blanc to complement the creamy cheese sauce and chicken.

Storage Suggestions For Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
• Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish, add a splash of milk to restore creaminess, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until warmed through.
• Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a little milk or cream to revive the sauce's smooth texture. Stir constantly to prevent sticking and maintain creamy consistency.
• Wrap tightly in freezer-safe containers, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe Recipe

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4.6 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy cheesy chicken pasta delivers comfort on a plate, blending golden chicken with velvety sauce and perfectly cooked noodles. Hearty ingredients and simple preparation promise a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Proteins:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Pasta and Seasonings:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite kind)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Sauce and Dairy:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh parsley (chopped)
• Red pepper flakes
• Crumbled bacon

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Instructions

1. Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes, then drain thoroughly and reserve.
2. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium temperature, creating a gentle sizzle and releasing aromatic garlic until softened and golden.
3. Whisk cream cheese and milk together, creating a silky, smooth base with no lumps, stirring continuously for even consistency.
4. Gradually incorporate shredded cheddar, allowing each handful to melt completely before adding more, resulting in a velvety, rich sauce.
5. Fold cooked chicken and drained pasta into the cheese mixture, ensuring every morsel is generously coated with the creamy sauce.
6. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting flavors to personal preference and balancing the richness of the cheese.
7. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant garnish and added freshness, then serve immediately while the sauce remains warm and glossy.

Notes

• Choose short pasta shapes like penne or rotini to help sauce cling better and create more cheesy bites.
• Keep extra milk nearby to adjust sauce consistency if it becomes too thick during cooking.
• Shred your own cheese instead of pre-shredded for smoother, more authentic melting texture.
• Use rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken for quicker meal preparation and added flavor depth.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 682 kcal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 480 mg
• Fat: 38 g
• Saturated Fat: 20 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 49 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 43 g
• Cholesterol: 140 mg