Cheesy Chicken Pasta

If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and ultra-creamy meal, this Cheesy Chicken Pasta is the perfect comfort food! Packed with tender chicken, a rich and cheesy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is family-friendly and ready in under 30 minutes. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, this cheesy pasta dish is sure to be a favorite!

Ingredients

For the Pasta & Chicken:

8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
2 chicken breasts, diced
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika

For the Cheesy Sauce:

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk (whole milk or heavy cream for extra creaminess)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt & pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes:

Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Extra Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat.
Add the diced chicken, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, cooking for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheesy Sauce

In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring continuously.
Slowly add milk, whisking to avoid lumps. Cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Stir in garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Reduce heat to low and mix in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and chicken into the skillet, tossing to coat in the cheesy sauce.
Cook for 1-2 minutes, letting everything come together.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: 550
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 20g
Sodium: 600mg
Fiber: 2g

Tips & Tricks for the Best Cheesy Chicken Pasta

✅ Use freshly shredded cheese – Pre-packaged cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly as fresh!
✅ Swap the protein – Try ground turkey, shrimp, or even rotisserie chicken for variety.
✅ Add veggies – Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor.
✅ Make it spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.
✅ Storage & Reheating – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.