Name: Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (penne or your choice); 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced; 2 tbsp butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk (whole or 2%); 1 ½ cups white cheddar cheese, shredded; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp paprika (optional); 2 tbsp parsley, chopped (for garnish)

There's nothing like the creamy, savory goodness of Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta to turn an ordinary evening into something special. This dish combines tender chicken, perfectly al dente pasta, and a luscious white cheddar sauce that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

I first discovered this recipe when experimenting with ways to elevate a simple pasta dinner. One bite of this rich, cheesy masterpiece, and it instantly became a family favorite. Let’s dive into why this dish will become a star in your dinner rotation!

Why You'll Love This Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta

Get ready to fall head over heels for this indulgent pasta recipe! It's the perfect balance of creamy comfort, bold flavors, and effortless preparation.

First off, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver on busy nights. Despite the short prep time, it feels like something you'd enjoy at a fancy restaurant.

Secondly, it’s incredibly family-friendly. From the creamy sauce to the tender chicken, even picky eaters can't resist a second helping.

The versatility of this recipe is another reason to love it. You can easily swap out the protein, switch up the pasta shape, or add vegetables to suit your taste or whatever’s in your fridge.

Finally, the sauce is made with white cheddar cheese, offering a sophisticated twist compared to traditional mac and cheese. Its tangy sharpness pairs beautifully with the creamy base and savory chicken.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building a creamy, cheesy masterpiece.

Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They're easy to cook and provide a lean protein option. If you prefer a richer flavor, chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative.

Pasta: Choose a shape like penne, rotini, or farfalle. Their ridges and curves are perfect for holding onto every drop of the creamy sauce.

White Cheddar Cheese: The star of the show! Opt for a sharp white cheddar for maximum flavor. Grating your own cheese is best, as pre-shredded cheese can make the sauce grainy.

Cream and Broth: A mix of heavy cream and chicken broth creates a silky, flavorful base for the sauce. If you’re watching calories, you can use half-and-half instead of cream, but it won't be quite as rich.

Seasonings: A blend of garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika brings out the best in the chicken and complements the cheese sauce beautifully.

Finally, you’ll need a large skillet and a pot for the pasta. A whisk is essential to ensure your sauce is smooth and lump-free.

How To Make This Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta

Creating this creamy pasta is surprisingly simple. Let me walk you through the process step by step.

1. Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until just al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

2. Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, season your chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Sear the chicken for about 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and let rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

3. Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, whisk in flour to create a roux. Cook for about a minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly, followed by the heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer until slightly thickened.

4. Add the Cheese
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the freshly grated white cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is velvety smooth. If it seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.

5. Combine Everything
Toss the cooked pasta and sliced chicken into the sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though that's rare!), this pasta stores beautifully.

For refrigeration, transfer the pasta to an airtight container and store it for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.

For longer storage, you can freeze this pasta. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and it will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or microwave.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

1. Switch the Protein: Swap the chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even crispy bacon for a different flavor profile.

2. Add Veggies: Stir in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to add some greens and extra nutrients.

3. Use a Different Cheese: While white cheddar is the star, you can experiment with Gruyère, Parmesan, or Gouda for a unique twist.

4. Go Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the dish some heat.

5. Make it Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour for the roux.

Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or simply treating yourself, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to make it your own with these variations, and enjoy every cheesy, creamy bite!