Name: Cheesy Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 250 g pasta (uncooked) (any pasta shape will work!); 275 g chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces (for lean protein); 130 ml milk (creamy base); 110 ml double cream (for that indulgent texture); 100 g mozzarella cheese (plus extra to sprinkle on top) (the star of the dish!); 2 tablespoons oil (for sautéing); 4 cloves garlic, minced (garlic lovers rejoice!); 1/2 teaspoon salt (to enhance flavors); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (for a touch of heat); 1/2 teaspoon red chilli powder (adjust for spice preference); 1 teaspoon garlic powder (double the garlic goodness); 1 teaspoon paprika (for a hint of smokiness); 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (adding depth); 1/4 teaspoon oregano (a fragrant herb); 2 tablespoons tomato paste (for richness); 1 teaspoon chilli sauce/Sriracha (to amp up the flavor); 100-120 ml pasta water (for adjusting sauce consistency); 1 tablespoon Parsley for garnish (optional) (for a pop of color)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a heaping bowl of Cheesy Chicken Pasta to warm the soul, especially after a long day. This recipe combines tender chicken, pasta, and an irresistible cheesy sauce that wraps everything together in creamy perfection. Inspired by my love for hearty weeknight meals, I’ve developed this dish to be quick, satisfying, and, best of all, easy to prepare. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again.

Why you’ll love this dish

Cheesy Chicken Pasta is not just another pasta recipe; it celebrates comfort and flavor in every bite. Here are a few compelling reasons to add it to your menu:

Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you’re short on time.
Kid-Approved: With melted cheese and savory chicken, kids will love it—and so will adults!
Budget-Friendly: Utilizing ingredients you likely already have, this dish won’t break the bank.
Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with your favorite vegetables or spices!

“This dish has quickly become a family favorite! The creaminess and flavors are just unbeatable.” — A Satisfied Cook

The cooking process explained

Making Cheesy Chicken Pasta is a breeze! Here’s a quick overview of the process:

Cook the pasta to al dente perfection.
Sauté garlic and chicken for a flavorful base.
Spice it up with seasonings and create a creamy sauce.
Toss everything together for a delicious and comforting meal.

Now, let’s dive into the details of how to create this mouthwatering dish!

What you’ll need

Gather the following ingredients to whip up Cheesy Chicken Pasta:

250g pasta (uncooked) – any pasta shape will work!
2 tablespoons oil – for sautéing.
4 cloves garlic, minced – garlic lovers rejoice!
275g chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces – for lean protein.
1/2 teaspoon salt – to enhance flavors.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – for a touch of heat.
1/2 teaspoon red chilli powder – adjust for spice preference.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – double the garlic goodness.
1 teaspoon paprika – for a hint of smokiness.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder – adding depth.
1/4 teaspoon oregano – a fragrant herb.
2 tablespoons tomato paste – for richness.
1 teaspoon chilli sauce/Sriracha – to amp up the flavor.
130ml milk – creamy base.
110ml double cream – for that indulgent texture.
100g mozzarella cheese (plus extra to sprinkle on top) – the star of the dish!
100-120ml pasta water – for adjusting sauce consistency.
Parsley for garnish (optional) – for a pop of color.

Feel free to substitute the chicken for tofu or a different protein if desired!

Step-by-step instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Cheesy Chicken Pasta:

In a large pot, boil water and add salt. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
While the pasta cooks, heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until lightly golden.
Add the diced chicken to the skillet, cooking until it turns white. Season with salt, black pepper, red chilli powder, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and oregano.
Stir in the tomato paste and Sriracha, cooking for an additional minute to meld the flavors.
Pour in the milk and double cream, allowing it to simmer until the sauce thickens. Stir continuously for about 3-5 minutes.
Incorporate the mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
Gradually add reserved pasta water until reaching your desired consistency, bringing the sauce to a gentle boil.
Gently fold in the cooked pasta, ensuring each piece is coated with that luscious sauce.
Top with extra cheese, cover briefly to melt, and serve immediately with a sprinkle of parsley for garnish.

Best ways to enjoy it

To elevate your Cheesy Chicken Pasta experience, consider the following serving suggestions:

Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley adds a refreshing touch.
Pair with Crunchy Garlic Bread: The perfect side to mop up any leftover sauce!
Add a Side Salad: Balance the richness with a light garden salad or a Caesar salad.

Storage and reheating tips

Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to keep your Cheesy Chicken Pasta fresh:

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the pasta, but it’s best to leave the cheese for when you reheat it. It may lose its creamy texture if frozen.
Reheat: Microwave in intervals, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess, or reheat on the stove over low heat.

Helpful cooking tips

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente, as it will continue cooking when combined with the sauce.
Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to tweak the spices according to your taste preferences.
Use Quality Cheese: For the best flavor, opt for good-quality mozzarella and double cream.

Creative twists

Why stick to the same recipe? Here are a few variations to try:

Vegetable Add-Ins: Toss in some spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or a plant-based option for a diverse twist.
Add Nuts for Crunch: Sprinkle some toasted nuts (like pine nuts or walnuts) on top for a delightful crunch.

Your questions answered

Q: What’s the prep time for Cheesy Chicken Pasta?
A: Prep time is about 10 minutes, with an additional 20 minutes for cooking, making it a quick meal overall.

Q: Can I use whole wheat pasta?
A: Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds more fiber and a rich, nutty flavor.

Q: Is it safe to reheat leftovers?
A: Yes, just ensure you reheat thoroughly to at least 165°F (74°C).

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Certainly! Substitute chicken with tofu or a mix of your favorite vegetables, and use plant-based cream and cheese.

With its delicious flavors and creamy texture, Cheesy Chicken Pasta is destined to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and discover just how comforting homemade pasta can be!