Name: Cheesy Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini); 2 cups cooked chicken breast (diced); 2 tbsp butter; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1.5 cups milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded); 0.5 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)

Few meals hit the sweet spot between indulgent comfort and everyday practicality quite like Cheesy Chicken Pasta. Rich, creamy, and generously coated in melted cheese, this dish has earned its place as a weeknight hero in kitchens everywhere. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping meals for the week, or simply craving something cozy and satisfying, cheesy chicken pasta delivers every time.

This recipe is designed to be approachable, flexible, and deeply comforting. It combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a velvety cheese sauce that clings to every bite. Best of all, it’s made with pantry-friendly ingredients and simple techniques—no complicated steps, no fancy equipment, just real food that tastes amazing.

Why Cheesy Chicken Pasta Is Always a Winner

Cheesy chicken pasta is beloved for good reason. It strikes a balance between protein-rich nourishment and crave-worthy flavor. The mildness of chicken allows the cheese sauce to shine, while pasta provides that satisfying, carb-based comfort we all need from time to time.

This dish also adapts beautifully to different tastes. Prefer extra cheesy? Add more. Want a lighter version? Swap in milk instead of cream. Need vegetables? Stir in broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms. That flexibility is what makes this recipe a staple rather than a one-time treat.

Ingredients

12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli)
2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups milk or light cream
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika
¼ tsp Italian seasoning
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Sprinkle flour over the butter and garlic, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for 1 minute.
Slowly whisk in milk and cream, stirring until smooth and slightly thickened.
Add salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until fully melted and creamy.
Add cooked chicken to the sauce and stir until coated.
Fold in cooked pasta and mix until everything is evenly combined.
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and stir gently.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

The Secret to Ultra-Creamy Cheese Sauce

The magic of cheesy chicken pasta lies in its sauce. Starting with a roux ensures the sauce thickens without becoming grainy. Using a blend of cheeses adds depth—cheddar provides bold flavor, mozzarella adds stretch, and Parmesan sharpens the finish.

Always melt cheese over low heat. High heat can cause separation, leading to a greasy texture. Patience is the key to silky perfection.

Best Pasta Shapes for Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Short, ridged pasta shapes work best because they trap the sauce. Penne, rotini, and fusilli are ideal choices. Avoid long, slippery noodles like spaghetti—they don’t hold the cheese sauce as well.

Delicious Variations to Try

Baked Cheesy Chicken Pasta:
Transfer finished pasta to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes until bubbly.

Spicy Cheesy Chicken Pasta:
Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Veggie-Packed Version:
Stir in sautéed broccoli, peas, spinach, or roasted bell peppers.

Extra Protein Boost:
Mix in crispy bacon bits or swap half the chicken for shrimp.

Serving Suggestions

Cheesy chicken pasta is rich and filling, so lighter sides work best:

Crisp green salad with vinaigrette
Steamed green beans or asparagus
Garlic bread or dinner rolls
Roasted vegetables

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
Freezing: Not recommended, as cheese sauces may separate.

Why Families Love This Recipe

This recipe consistently earns five-star reviews because it’s:

Kid-friendly
Budget-conscious
Customizable
Comforting without being complicated

It’s the kind of dish that becomes part of your regular rotation—not because it’s trendy, but because it works.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal—it’s comfort in a bowl. Creamy, hearty, and endlessly adaptable, it proves that simple ingredients can create something truly special. Whether it’s a rushed weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend indulgence, this recipe delivers warmth, flavor, and satisfaction every single time.