Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe
Cheesy chicken pasta is a creamy, comforting dish made with tender chicken, pasta, and melted cheese.It’s quick to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners.Ready in just 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
- 10 ounces 300 g penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 pound 450 g chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- 4 garlic cloves finely chopped
- 1 cup 250 ml chicken stock
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups 375 ml half and half (single cream)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 cup 125 g low-fat cheddar cheese, shredded
- ⅓ cup 30 g Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente. Reserve 1–2 cups of pasta water, then drain.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 6–7 minutes until golden. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté garlic for 1 minute. Add chicken stock and bring to a boil.
- Stir in flour and whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Pour in the half and half, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add Italian seasoning, chili flakes, and black pepper.
- Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Add cooked pasta and toss well to coat. Use reserved pasta water if needed.
- Return chicken to the pan, mix well, then stir in Parmesan cheese.
- Adjust seasoning and serve immediately. This cheesy chicken pasta is best enjoyed fresh.
Notes
- Swap penne with fusilli or rigatoni.
- Use low-fat cream for a lighter version.
- Serve with garlic bread or a fresh salad.