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!

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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

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

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

Step 3: Make the Cheesy Sauce

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

Step 4: Combine Everything

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

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

13. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan and serve warm.

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Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

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

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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.