Description
This Cheesy Chicken Pasta is a quick, one-pot comfort food classic. Loaded with tender chicken, pasta, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce, it’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Made with pantry staples and ready in 30 minutes, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning or paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
- Optional add-ins: spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, broccoli
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add chicken broth and cream. Bring to a simmer, then stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
- Return cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss to combine and heat through.
- Top with fresh herbs and extra cheese if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for heat.
- Mix in veggies like spinach, peas, or mushrooms.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.
- Swap in sausage, shrimp, or turkey for variety.
- Bake with extra cheese for a golden crust.
- Use milk or half-and-half for a lighter option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
