If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate comfort food that delivers both flavor and convenience, look no further than Cheesy Chicken Pasta. Tender chicken is tossed with perfectly cooked pasta, all bathed in a luscious, two-cheese sauce with savory hints of garlic and Italian herbs. This one-pot wonder is both a weeknight lifesaver and a crave-worthy crowd-pleaser, earning its spot in your regular dinner rotation!

Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how a handful of simple, familiar ingredients can come together to create something so satisfying. Each item adds its own magic, whether it’s a creamy richness, zesty freshness, or that irresistible cheesy pull we all love.

Olive oil: Adds a subtle, fruity base flavor while helping the chicken brown beautifully.
Boneless skinless chicken breast: The protein star, making every bite hearty and substantial.
Italian seasoning: Brings aromatic herbs to the party, infusing the chicken with classic Mediterranean notes.
Salt: Essential for balancing flavors and making everything pop.
Black pepper: Adds a gentle touch of heat and depth.
Garlic (minced): Delivers warm, comforting fragrance and flavor throughout the dish.
Onion (diced): Adds subtle sweetness and a pleasant bite once sautéed.
Pasta (penne or rotini): The perfect vehicle for soaking up all the cheesy, savory sauce.
Chicken broth: Enriches the pasta with savory, developed flavor as it cooks.
Milk: Infuses creaminess without making things heavy—key for the luscious sauce.
Cheddar cheese (shredded): Melts into gooey, tangy ribbons for that classic “cheesy” factor.
Parmesan cheese (grated): Offers sharp, salty depth for extra flavor.
Butter: Brings a silky finish to both the sauce’s flavor and texture.
Chopped fresh parsley: Optional, but adds a delicious touch of color and brightness for serving.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then cook for 5 to 6 minutes. The goal here is to brown the chicken for big flavor while keeping it tender. Don’t rush this step—the caramelization adds depth you’ll taste in every bite. Once cooked through, scoop the chicken out and set it aside.

Step 2: Soften Garlic and Onion

With those savory bits left in the skillet, it’s time to add your minced garlic and diced onion. Stir and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions turn translucent and the garlic smells absolutely irresistible. This simple step layers in sweet and aromatic undertones that form the background of the whole dish.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta in One Pot

Stir in the uncooked pasta, chicken broth, and milk right into the skillet. Bring it all to a gentle boil, then cover and reduce the heat. Simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. This method infuses the noodles with that savory, herby flavor—no need to boil separate pots of water!

Step 4: Add Delicious, Melty Cheese

Return your cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, and a pat of butter. Gently stir everything together until the cheeses melt into a gloriously creamy sauce that clings to every piece of pasta and chicken. Watch as it transforms into the Cheesy Chicken Pasta you’ve been craving!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

If you’re feeling fancy, scatter chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of flavor and color. Serve the pasta warm and watch the cheesy goodness disappear off your plates!

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley does wonders, but don’t stop there—try a light dusting of extra Parmesan or a twist of freshly cracked pepper just before serving. These finishing touches not only boost flavor, they make your Cheesy Chicken Pasta look absolutely irresistible.

Side Dishes

Pair your Cheesy Chicken Pasta with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette or some simple steamed broccoli for contrast. Warm, crusty garlic bread on the side makes it a company-worthy spread and is perfect for swiping up that last bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful twist, serve Cheesy Chicken Pasta in oven-safe bowls, top with a little more cheese, and broil for a bubbly, golden crust. Or, try baking it in a casserole dish with extra veggies mixed in—think baby spinach, peas, or roasted bell peppers—for color and nutrition.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftovers cool, then transfer your Cheesy Chicken Pasta to an airtight container. It’ll keep wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it almost better the next day!

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze Cheesy Chicken Pasta! For best results, spoon cooled portions into freezer-safe bags or containers, pressing out as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to revive the creamy consistency. Stir well to blend it back together and enjoy that cheesy goodness all over again.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of pasta in Cheesy Chicken Pasta?

Absolutely! While penne and rotini are great for soaking up sauce, you can swap in fusilli, ziti, or even elbow macaroni. Just make sure to check for doneness a couple of minutes early, as different shapes may cook faster or slower.

What vegetables can I add to Cheesy Chicken Pasta?

This recipe welcomes color and nutrition—try stirring in steamed broccoli, spinach, peas, or roasted red peppers during the last few minutes of cooking. Not only will you add freshness, but you’ll sneak in those extra veggies without any fuss.

Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?

Definitely! For a spicy Cheesy Chicken Pasta, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce when you’re adding the cheese. You’ll get a touch of heat that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes—just replace the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free variety. Keep an eye on the cooking time, as some gluten-free noodles may need a touch less or more liquid and cook at a different pace.

Can I swap the cheddar cheese for something else?

Of course! Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses work beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, smoked gouda or pepper jack can take this dish in a deliciously different direction.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been longing for a dinner that brings smiles and seconds, Cheesy Chicken Pasta is calling your name. Whether you enjoy it straight from the skillet on a busy weeknight or dress it up for a friend-filled weekend, this dish never disappoints. Give it a try—you’ll soon see why it’s a favorite in kitchens everywhere!

Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe

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4.7 from 26 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a comforting and delicious one-pan meal with this Cheesy Chicken Pasta recipe. Tender chicken, savory cheeses, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in a creamy sauce that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Pasta:

2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 onion, diced
2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or rotini)
2 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon butter
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Cook chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until browned. Set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, sauté garlic and onion until softened.
Cook Pasta: Add pasta, chicken broth, and milk. Simmer until pasta is tender.
Combine: Return chicken to skillet. Add cheeses and butter. Stir until melted.
Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve warm.